Interview Techniques

Job Interview Techniques in Northern Ireland

Research

  • Before attending your interview ensure that you gather as much relevant information as possible. You can gain a good understanding of an organisation by logging on to their website and familiarising yourself with key information such as the company history, key competitors and financial stability.
  • If there is no company website then information can be attained by using various web search engines, newspapers and professional magazines.
  • Request a copy of the job specification from the company or your recruitment consultant and ensure that you read each point thoroughly.
  • Familiarise yourself with your CV and think about the qualities the employer is looking for. Work out how best you can demonstrate these to the interviewer(s).
  • Prepare a number of questions that you can ask your interviewer(s). This demonstrates that you have thought about the role and done some research on the organisation.
  • Plan your route to ensure you know where you are going and aim to arrive at least 10 minutes early.


What to Take With You

  • A copy of your CV and/or application form
  • A copy of the job description
  • The interview confirmation letter with name(s) of the interviewer(s), address and telephone number
  • Directions/map of how to get there


At the Interview

  • Ensure that you a smartly dressed
  • Greet your interviewer/s with a strong, firm handshake
  • Good body language is essential, ensure you sit up straight, maintain eye contact and speak clearly and confidently
  • Listen to the questions carefully and pace yourself when answering
  • Give positive examples of your experience to date
  • Be concise and honest about your experience and qualifications
  • Express enthusiasm for the role even if you have reservations. These can be addressed at a later stage.
  • Thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you


Questions you can ask

  • How has the position become available?
  • How does the position fit into the structure of the organisation?
  • What training is available to continued development?Do you have any plans for expansion if so how would these impact on this role?
  • How would you describe the culture of the organisation?
  • What opportunities are available to progress within the organisation?


Avoid

  • Being negative
  • Making derogatory comments about former employers
  • Discussing salary information or company benefits
  • Poor body language


Close

  • Ask what the next stage will be if they have not already explained
  • Reiterate your interest in the role and the organisation
  • Thank each interviewer for their time


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