Interview Tips
Being successful at interviews is all about preparation. Here are some handy tips to help you on your way.
Before the interview
- Research the organisation. Visit their website (if they have one) and read about what they do and any current news.
- Review your resume so it is fresh in your mind.
- Plan the journey and be on time.
- Write down the name of the people you are meeting and the address for the interview.
- Dress appropriately and make sure you look presentable.
At the interview
- Make good eye contact with each person at the interview.
- Smile.
- Ask questions.
- Use a strong and confident tone.
- Be honest about your experience and skills.
- Don’t complain.
- Never swear or use language that puts others down.
- Wait until the interviewer brings up the topic of pay. Be prepared with some idea of what your salary expectations are.
Common Questions
These are some common questions asked at an interview. Give some thought to your answers beforehand.
Tell me about yourself?
Answer:
This question may be used to assess your ability to think on the spot. An ideal response would state briefly your career history and skills. Explain how these skills could easily transfer to this new position.
Be sure to stay focused on qualities that are career related unless specifically instructed by the interviewer.
"I have been in the customer service industry for the past three years. My most recent experience has been in hardware retail. One reason I particularly enjoy this area is the opportunity to connect with people. In my last job I formed customer relationships resulting in a significant increase in sales over a 6 month period.
I am now looking for a company that values customer relations where I can join a strong team and have a positive impact."
Why do you want to work here?
Answer:
This is a good time to demonstrate your knowledge of their business. Whilst there is no right or wrong response to this question, whatever answer you give should demonstrate that you have thought about the job. This is a good opportunity to re-emphasise your suitability for the position. Some responses could include: "being part of a team, the opportunity to connect with people or to learn new skills".
Why did you leave your last job?
Answer:
Try to keep this as positive as possible. For example:
"For better career advancement or promotion opportunities, increased responsibility, to further develop my skills...”
or
“Unfortunately, the company I last worked for closed their doors. It’s a pity, as I really enjoyed working there."
or
“A downturn in business led to a number of job losses."
Why haven’t you worked for the past three years?
Answer:
If you have suffered an illness or injury, this is an opportunity to talk about it if you wish. However, if you prefer not to give details, you can simply say that personal circumstances prevented you from working at that time, but that you are 100% ready to work now.
What are your weaknesses if any?
Answer:
Try to steer clear of highlighting real weaknesses in an interview situation. This is an opportunity to turn the question into a positive. Think of something about your work that is plausible as a weakness but is not really a negative point. e.g; "I am very particular about details or I become very focussed on the projects I am involved in"
Tell me about a difficult situation you have faced and how you have dealt with it?
Answer:
This is a great question for showing your ability to solve a problem.
"Sure, at my last job we had a problem where the situation was "X" ... the action I took was "Y" ... and the positive outcome was "Z" ... I was commended for solving the problem and getting the project back on track.
or
"I try to take a planned approach to problem solving. I take the time to gather the information and clearly define the problem or goal. I think it is important to get the information and clarify the problem first before you start coming up with possible solutions, or wasting other people's time."
Why should we employ you?
Answer:
The interviewer is asking you to outline why you are the best person for the job. This is a great chance to talk about your strengths e.g. "I have strong customer service skills, am a good team player".
