Interviews

Slide 1

Interviews

1If you get to the interview stage you basically meet the requirements for the jobThe purpose of the interview is to give the employer a chance to assess your suitability for the role and for you to demonstrate your abilities and personalityThe interview should be a two-way processInterviews can take different forms eg face-to-face, panel, by telephone etcCan also be stand alone or form part of an assessment centre

2 Employers Ideal GraduateHonours degree pref. 2.1 or aboveTechnical/subject knowledge may be requiredRelevant work experience and transferable skillsI.T. skills Personal skills/aptitudes eg communications, teamworking, flexibility/adaptability, initiative/drive etcHow can you prove that you possess these skills?

3STAR APPROACH : Will help structure your answers SiTuationDescribe the situation or the task that you had to accomplish. Give an example of a specific event or situation, of what you have done in the past. Give enough detail for the interviewer to understand. This situation can be from college, work experience or from your social life.Action you took Describe the action you took .keep the focus on you. Even if you are discussing a group project, describe what you did -- not the efforts of the team. Don't tell what you might do, tell what you did Results you achieved What happened? How did the event end? What did you accomplish? What did you learn?

4Tell me about yourself Means: Can you present yourself as the bestcandidate for the job?

Approach: Read the job descriptionWhat are the key competencies required?Prepare a list of your main selling pointsPrioritise your listStart with your best selling pointIntroduce the remaining points throughout the interview

5Why should we employ you?Means: Can you add value to the company?

Approach:Refer to the job description and your list of selling points.Briefly summarise how your education, experience and skills match the job. If given time, you may introduce additional selling points

6Why did you apply for this job?Means: How motivated are you?

Approach:Do your homework.Make sure they know youve done it.List the attractions of the jobInteresting workAligns with your previous experienceReal responsibilityReputation of the company etc.State your desire to work for a company offering these incentives.

7Can you give me an example of When youve worked as part of a team?

Means: Can you work effectively with other people?

Approach:Thinks about teams you belong to.How do you contribute to their effectiveness?Provide an example of you supporting others in a team effort.

8Can you give an example ofwhen youve had to work under pressure?

Means: Can you prioritise your work anddo you have a work ethic?

Approach:Thinks about a time when you had deadlines to meet.How did you prioritise your use of time?Describe the outcome and how you maximised your effectiveness.

9What do you do in your spare time?Means: Are you a well-rounded person and do your interests demonstrate other abilities?

Approach: Emphasise involvement and achievement.Try to match the skills you have developed with those required by the job. Be enthusiastic. Keep it brief.

10What are your strengths and weakness?Means: Are you self-aware and do you have a plan for your own development?

Approach:Link your strengths to the job.Describe weaknesses in terms of personal development how you have become stronger.Mention briefly how you hope to develop further.

11Scenario problem solving Means: Can you think on your feet and see the implications of your decisions?

Approach: Make sure you understand the problemAsk for time to think about it.Try to consider a number of alternative solutions

12Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?Means: Have you a career objective that is achievable with this company?

Approach: Discuss your personal goals in terms of the job e.g.Acquiring experience and responsibilityDeveloping your management skillsContinuous professional development do not make this a condition!

13Have you any questions? Means: They are providing you with an opportunity to clarify any issues that are important to you.

Approach: You are still being assessed so ask about eg:training and developmentperformance assessment and prospects for promotion

14 First ImpressionsA first impression is often based on the first 30-90seconds:

Smile

Respond in an animated, enthusiastic way

Be confident and maintain good eye contact

15Body language

Research has shown that:55% is based on appearance38% is based on tone of voice7% what is actually said

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