What Awaits You in Job Interviews?
What to Pay Attention to in an Interview
Preparation Before the Interview:
- Clarify Details: When scheduling the interview, confirm the location (full address and directions), time, and the person you will meet.
- Arrive on Time: Be punctual. If you will be late or cannot attend for any reason, inform them in advance.
- Research the Company and Position: Gather information about the company and role from the internet, industry magazines, and publications.
- Prepare Answers for Possible Questions: Identify suitable responses to potential questions. Practice them without memorizing.
- Bring Extra Resumes: Even if you’ve sent a resume beforehand, carry additional copies.
- Complete Any Required Application Forms: Fill out any forms accurately and bring a photo if needed.
- Silence Your Phone: Make sure your phone is off or on silent mode before the interview.
- Prepare Questions: Have questions ready about the position and company, but avoid bringing up salary or benefits too early.
Appearance:
- Dress Appropriately: Plan your outfit in advance based on the company culture and position. Aim for clean, pressed, and coordinated clothing.
- Grooming: Ensure your hair and, if applicable, facial hair are neat. Avoid excessive makeup or strong fragrances.
Approach:
- Voice Tone: Speak clearly and at a moderate volume to enhance communication.
- Body Language and Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact and face the interviewers to show engagement and confidence.
- Honesty: Provide open and honest answers to build trust with potential employers.
Tips for Leaving a Positive Impression:
- Arrive Early: Aim to be at the interview location at least 15 minutes early.
- Professionalism: Present yourself cleanly and comfortably.
- Firm Handshake and Eye Contact: A firm handshake and consistent eye contact convey confidence and respect.
- Smile: Show a friendly demeanor with a genuine smile.
- Maintain Good Posture: Sit up straight and avoid appearing tense or nervous.
- Have Extra Materials: Bring extra copies of your resume, a notebook, and a pen.
Answering Questions:
- Be Concise: Provide direct answers without unnecessary elaboration. Avoid one-word responses unless asked.
- Take Your Time: Pause briefly before answering to gather your thoughts. A moment of silence can indicate you’re considering the question.
- Admit What You Don’t Know: If you don’t know the answer to a question, acknowledge it while striving to minimize these instances.
- Stay Composed: Handle unexpected questions with calmness.
- Ask Questions: If time allows, inquire about details that will help you make an informed decision.
What to Do and What Not to Do in Interviews
Do's:
- Be well-prepared for the interview.
- Research the company.
- Bring several copies of your resume.
- Arrive on time.
- Dress appropriately.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Wait to be seated.
- Stay positive and engage throughout.
- Be honest and demonstrate teamwork.
- Show enthusiasm for the job.
- Follow up about the next steps.
Don'ts:
- Neglect your appearance.
- Seem disinterested or inattentive.
- Offer a weak handshake.
- Limit your energy.
- Be rude or overly casual.
- Place your belongings on the employer’s desk.
- Give vague answers.
- Bring up salary or benefits too early.
- Appear indecisive or unprepared.
- Criticize anyone.
- Over-apologize.
- Be aggressive in demeanor.
- Dominate the conversation.
- Allow the interviewer to speak without any input from you.
- Chew gum, eat, or drink during the interview.
Possible Questions You Might Encounter
General Questions:
- Did you have any difficulty finding our address?
- Would you like something warm or cold to drink?
- You mentioned you are interested in … sport (or any other topic). How long have you been involved in this?
- Can you tell us about yourself?
- What qualities make you successful in this position?
- What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
- Describe the necessary qualifications for success in this role.
- Do you have any active applications?
- Why should we hire you?
- What was your biggest achievement during your school life?
- What are your long-term career goals?
- Can you give an example of your creative side?
Education-Related Questions:
- When did you finish high school and university?
- If you could restart your career, would you pursue a different education? Why?
- Have you participated in any training programs recently for personal development?
- Can you tell us about your recent projects?
- Are you considering pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree?
- Are there any projects you aimed to achieve but couldn't?
Experience-Related Questions:
- Can you describe your responsibilities during your internships?
- What kind of work environment do you thrive in?
- How did you foster teamwork during your education and internships?
- How would you handle working with a difficult manager?
- Have you ever had to make quick decisions?
- What is the importance of communication with your superiors or subordinates? How would you resolve communication issues with a colleague?
- What are your salary expectations?
- Is there any issue with contacting the references you provided in your resume?