Interview Skills

Job interviews

Job interviews

DISCUSSION

 In pairs, discuss the following.



What preparation needs to be done before you attend a job interview?

 Feedback

PREPARATION

Research the company

 what they do, make or sell?

 who are their customers?

 what sort of organisation are they?

 what is the job likely to involve?

 how can you best fit your skills to match the job?

PREPARATION continued…

Plan for the interview

 What does the interview involve?

   If you need the employer to make particular arrangements - for example, to help you get into the building (due to physical disability) contact them before your interview. Find out how long the interview is likely to last. Will have to take a test or make a presentation?

PREPARATION continued…

Plan your journey

Create the right image: Aim for a neat, clean and tidy appearance.

Gather the information you will need

at the interview; CV, application to refer to, notes, cue cards.

AT THE INTERVIEW

First impressions count!

Sit in a relaxed and comfortable position.

Listen to the questions and look directly at the interviewer.

Be confident and positive, but not too assertive.

Answer fully any questions put to you.

Never give only yes or no answers.

AT THE INTERVIEW continued…

 Don’t be afraid to pause to think about a question or to ask the interviewer to repeat it.

 Know what you want to get across – it’s a 2 way process.

 Have some questions ready to ask the interviewer.

 Remember – you may be asked to take a test, usually literacy / numeracy.

ROLE PLAY

    Get into pairs.

You will be taking on the role of interviewer and interviewee.

Think of what organisation you are being interviewed for.

Ask the interview questions, then swop roles.

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

1) 2) 3) 4) 5) Why do you want to work here?

Why did you leave your last job?

What did you do in your last job?

How long have you been out of work and how do you spend your time?

What makes you think you are the right person for this job?

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS continued…

6)Why have you had so many jobs?

7) why should the employer take you on?

8) aren't you over qualified?

9)How do you get on with people?

10) What are your strengths and weaknesses?

11) Do you have any questions?