The Positive Interview Guide

Posted by brian on Wed, 01/20/2010 - 11:13

The Positive Interview Guide:

Prepare!

Find out all you can about the company and the job.

* What do they do?

* What does the job involve?

* What skills do you have that will interest the company?

* What can you offer the company as distinct from what you expect from them?

* Keep a copy of your C.V. and re-read this before the interview.

* Think about the questions you may be asked.

* Prepare some questions to ask the interviewer.

* Note any topical news item relating to the industry you are visiting and be prepared to comment.

* Try to get to know about a burning issue inside the company and try to address a solution if the interviewer asks.

On the Day :

* First impression counts.

* Dress appropriately so that you feel confident and comfortable - avoid extremes.

* Know where you are going and allow yourself plenty of time to get there. Arrive early.

* Get the feeling of the company while you are waiting to be interviewed.

* Remember the interview starts from the moment you arrive on your company premises – the receptionist/ secretary may be asked what she thought of you.

At the interview :

* Confident entrance into the room, greet interviewer appropriately according to the time of the day and other gestures. (Eg :- Good Morning Sir/Madam).

* A firm brief handshake, avoid sweaty palms and a contest of strength. Do not initiate the handshake but be quick to respond to the interviewer's gesture.

* If a woman, place the handbag down sensibly (not on the interviewer's desk or clutch it on the lap).

* Sit up straight and look at the interviewer, speak clearly and don't fidget.

* Be yourself – the interviewer wants to find about you!

* Take a copy of your C.V. / Record of Achievements along.

* Ask the interviewer if he/she would like a copy.

* Be friendly, polite and enthusiastic. Keep eye-contact with the interviewer.

* Make sure you get all the points about your skills, and what you can offer the company, across in the interview. Market yourself.

* Show interest and be positive.

* Establish a two-way communication process. Avoid yes/no answers.

* Think before you speak. Give well thought out answers.

* Watch for signals that the interview is coming to an end.

* Check the time schedule, and what is the next stage.

* Check your list when asked if you have any further questions.

* Thank the interviewer for an enjoyable interview, re-state your interest in the job.

* Remuneration package refers to the salary the company is willing to give you, and if they ask the amount you expect as remuneration, give a stern answer but don't give answers such as that you will accept any amount the company is willing to pay. Know your value.

Areas you may be asked questions about

University/education:

* What are your predicted exam results?

* What have you got our of university?

* What position of responsibility have you held?

* Why do u want to study?

Interests /activities:

* What do you do in your spare time?

* Have you organised any activities?

* What are your interests and hobbies?

* What have you gained from them?

Anticipation :