The Job Interview

11th of February, 2014

 

When you go for an interview you are looking for a relationship through work, in which you will be paid for your knowledge and skills.

This means you will be looking at the workplace with an eye to compatibility and fit.

Of course the converse is also true:  the employer is looking to see if you will suit the work environment.

If you see the job interview as part of the research process about the job you will have a clearer idea as to whether you want it, if or when you are offered it.

During the interview you will also get an impression about the ‘fit’ and whether or not you would like to be offered the job.

If this is a positive feeling, then marketing yourself for this position as the interview goes on is the best strategy.

 

Preparing for the Job Interview

1. Research the job and the organisation or company. Ask yourself a series of questions and then look for the answers. Don’t be afraid to go to someone in the organisation itself for answers, and of course, the internet. Make sure you know how the organisation is structured and what the chain of command looks like.

2. Clarity around time for the interview is important; try to ascertain how long it will be and try to stay within that time frame.

3. For the interview take a summary of your attributes in bare note form. These will help you focus on your main strengths and the way these align with the main aspects of the job. This should be in addition to your CV which you can refer to if questions arise during the interview.

4. Remember that the interviewer is also trying to find out if you are the most suitable candidate for this position; mistakes in hiring personnel can be very expensive.

 

During the Interview

1. Share the voice. Make sure you exchange information about yourself with your interviewer and ask questions in a fifty-fifty proportion. This makes you look like a team player, as well as someone who is willing to share information.

2. Try not to take too long to answer a question. Research has shown that twenty seconds to two minutes is a good guide.

3. Every organisation has a purpose. Your goal is to clarify where you fit in the most constructive way.

4. Show a high standard of professionalism in the way you conduct yourself during the interview, but remember to look approachable while doing so.

5. Giving examples, or bringing evidence to show you have the skillset for the job, will support your application.

6. Never complain about previous employers. Always think about something positive to say about earlier situations if you are asked.

                                                                                                         

Questions that employers are most likely to ask:

1. Why are you interested in this job?

2. What can you do for us? How can you provide us with what we want?

3. What kind of person are you? Will you fit in with us?

4. What makes you stand out from the rest of the applicants?

5. How do we negotiate a suitable financial package?

 

Answers to questions you should consider:

1. What does the job involve? (Ask aloud – to show that you are on the ‘same page’.)

2. What skills do I need for the job and do I have them? (Confirm that you understand this.)

3. Do I want to join this team; are these the kind of people I can work with? (Observe silently.)

4. How do I show them I really am the best out of all the candidates? (Think about this.)

5. How do we negotiate a salary that will be fair and a good reward for this work? (Negotiate)

 

 

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Job Hunting...

10th of July, 2013

Finding that elusive prey...

If you are looking for a new job during times of change, whether due to recession or expansion, it will help if you think about what you really love to do. What excites you? Which environment stimulates you? How do you get energised and sustain that energy as you work? Do you prefer to work with people or are you happier in a more isolated situation?

As you find the answers to some of these questions you can begin to clarify what will suit you for the long term. It is also important to understand what skills you have, and how these may transfer to other areas of work you have not undertaken before. Be good to yourself – some of your attributes and talents may not be obvious in a new work environment but they could be the key to a whole new career. I know one couple who always enjoyed gardening as a hobby but in their early sixties channelled that interest into developing a vineyard which in turn provided them with a profitable business.

Find out what your strengths are and what your real purpose in life can be. Use a process which highlights your skills and best qualities.

Identify these qualities and skills through self-examination, talking to friends and colleagues, or see a counsellor.

Reflect on the way these attributes fit a variety of possible work situations. Think beyond the conventional as many new jobs are being developed now.

Know more about areas of work and organisations which fit your experience and skills, and which may provide you with opportunities.

Start with a strategy of staying positive, taking a long term view, and go after that job!

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