Interviews: in the hot seat
With behaviour-based interviews, also known as
Post-interview
“targeted selection”, applicants are asked to give
For your own benefit, it is good to assess how the
specific examples of their history to show that
interview went. Which skills did the interviewer
they can do the job.
comment or inquire about? Were there areas
t!
Phone and satellite interviews are also
where the interviewer showed a negative
o
r i
increasingly common, especially in Australia
response? How did you handle difficult questions
GO f
because of the distances and costs associated
and how might you do better next time?
with flying in interviewees from around the
country.
Making a good impression
Interviewers will be making judgements about common questions
you based on your manner and body language
What kind of person are you?
Along with your responses to questions, these
Tip: be clear and succinct. Don’t waffle.
factors will determine the initial impression you
make, so send the right signals: Why would you like to work for us?
• Be friendly and courteous
Tip: refer to the employer in your answer
• Sit in an alert, receptive and open manner
and what it is about them that attracts you
(culture, training, opportunities etc). Use
• Speak clearly and look at the interviewers
while talking
your answer to reinforce your suitability.
• Listen carefully
Why should we offer you job?
• Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you
Tip: demonstrate how your skills,
don’t understand a question.
experience and qualifications match the job
The unexpected
requirements.
Interviewers occasionally throw in a curly
What are your strengths/achievements?
question. All you can do with these questions
Tip: be clear and confident, but don’t
is take your time – there is nothing wrong with
overstate your achievements.
pausing before you answer.
What are your weaknesses?
Your questions
Tip: be honest --it will show you are self
There will be a section of the interview where aware.
you are invited to seek further information. Have
some questions prepared before the interview,
How do you handle stress?
such as: What career progression is typical for
Tip: demonstrate that you know the
difference between good and bad stress
graduate recruits? What are the longer term
and that you have methods for managing
goals of the organisation?
your stress levels, such as going to the gym
or meditation.
What motivates you?
Speak clearly and look at the
Tip: be honest about what drives you and
interviewers while talking.
the activities and achievements which give
you most satisfaction.
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