Interview Techniques

The Golden Rule

In order to get the job you will have to convince the employer that you are the ‘right person for the job’. There are no prizes for second best.
The most important aid to success is to want the job. Just as important is to remain calm but not too relaxed.
You must always be alert to identifying the responses that the employer wishes to hear at all times.
If you switch-off for a second, you will more than likely lose the thread of what the employer wants.
Go all out to get an offer. If you do not there is no point you being there since it is unlikely you will get the job.
Try your hardest even when you feel that it might not be quite right for you. In retrospect you may well regret that an opportunity has passed you by.

Preparation is crucial.
Arrive early, know where you are going and memorise all the details of the person interviewing you. Also obtain as much information as you can about the position and the company beforehand.
We will provide all available corporate brochures and direct you to their website.
Any other information that you get hold of will also be a bonus.
Make sure your mind is clear and that you do not have to worry about anything else during the interview since this will show.
Also prepare answers to the most commonly asked questions. For example, ‘Why have you applied for this position?’ ‘Why do you think we should give you this job?’ ‘What are your strengths and weaknesses?’ ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?’ and ‘Why do you wish to leave your current employment?’

If you do not make a good impression, you will not get the job.
We stress again that you must be on time.
As important, is to be clean and dressed neatly in a suit and tie or skirt.
You want to give the impression that you are a worker not a fashion victim.
Accordingly, after shave/perfume and make-up should be minimal and be conservative.
The rule of thumb is to dress to impress, but to think carefully about the type of person that the employer wants to see.
Also, make sure your shoes are polished.
The haircut will be important as well as ensuring there is no dirt under your nails.

From the moment you enter the company’s building maintain your self-confidence. Do not be boastful about your experience but rather be assertive.
Never be negative. Turn any weaknesses into strengths.
Do not take any personal or difficult questions as a personal affront.
Remain calm but buzzing with eagerness to prove yourself at every opportunity as to how you will benefit the organisation.

When the interview draws to a close, you will normally be asked if you have any further questions.
If you have valid questions go ahead and ask, but do not ask questions regarding holidays, etc. since this gives the wrong impression.
Once these have been answered you might wish to enquire as to whether the process will be taken further on the basis of the interview and as to what the next stage will be. It is always good to be keen.