Interview
Preparation to help
you get that job!
Interview Preparation
Page 1
Future Choices & Making Decisions
That’s what life is all about. You will come to a time when you will have to make a
long term decisions, such as finding the right job or making a major career change
whether it’s forced or the result of mid life crisis.
Too many people just follow the bouncing ball. Alternatively, they take the first job
offer that comes along because they are supposed to have a job. This attitude can
lead to dissatisfaction down the track. Give thought as to what you want to do and
make your decision for the right reasons
Think about it this way:
40/40 Principle – The quality of your Life!
40 – Minutes to impress
40 – Minutes to work
40 – Hours per week
40 – Years of your life.
Do what you love and love what you do! Make sure the dream is reachable and
achievable.
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you did not do
than by the ones you did. Explore. Dream. Discover” Mark Twain
Interview Preparation
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Welcome to the Real World of Job Searching & Interviews
We live in an age of ME, where we frequently focus on ourselves, have high
expectations of what we are entitled to and expect to get it. This is not a bad thing,
but when it comes to interviews and success is your goal, it’s wise to change your
focus. It’s time to forget about you and think about your interviewer/s or
employer/s. What do they want and what are their needs and expectations? What
can you say about yourself that will make them feel comfortable about saying “YES”
to you? It’s that simple. Focus on their needs and you’ll be satisfying your goals. It’s
really easy for them to say “NO”, because they have so much choice. It’s up to you
to convince them to say “YES”
Whatever career path you choose, there will be times in your life when you need to
become a sales person. The interview process is one of these. It’s all about selling
and differentiating yourself from others.
We’re not talking about being arrogant or boastful, but being modestly confident in
your achievements and abilities. Everyone has a special story to tell.
Facts about the Real World
Fact No.1
The World does not owe you a job! There are no freebies or gimmes in life. You just
can’t rock up and expect to get the job. You need to earn the right and prove to
your interviewer that you are the best and most appropriate person for the position
Fact No.2
When going for an interview, your chances are about 1 in 5 of getting that job. For
every position vacant, about five candidates will be interviewed on average.
To improve your chances follow this simple rule:
The 5P’s + 1P
PROPER PLANNING PREVENTS POOR PERFORMANCE + PRACTICE
Fact No.3
There are no guarantees in life and sometimes you’ll miss out. The trick is to figure
out what you did, so that you can do better next time.
The Weakest Link - You
Ultimately you are the weakest link in the interview process. If you don’t plan,
research, show interest and give the good reasons why it would be you, you’ll
probably miss out.
Remember
The way you present in your resume and interact in the interview, is the interviewers
guide to your future potential.
Interview Preparation
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The Art of Selling
If you don’t sell, promote, and make yourself look interesting, you will not achieve
the bright and fulfilling future that you desire.
Its fact that people don’t give enough praise and encouragement to others and
are more inclined to criticise than praise.
Today you need to be your own private motivator and coach. Ultimately you
control who you are!
Thing about this!
Figure out your 4W’s.
 What do you want to be?
 What are you selling?
 Who are you selling to?
 What’s in it for them?
What do you want to be?
Most people don’t really know what they want to be,
or why they want the job. They think they do, but when asked, they come up with
lightweight answers that don’t convince the interviewer. Your answers and delivery
need to be strong and confident. You need to define your goals; vision and
passions, and then demonstrate that you want to add value.
Employers are looking for performers, not passengers.
“You can’t inspire another person unless you are inspired first” Anon
What are you selling?
Simply, what’s good or special, about you? The things you have done or achieved,
that you can talk about in a Behavioural Based way.
Who are you selling to?
Whatever positions or opportunity you are applying for, each has an identity and
culture. You need to tap into what makes it unique or different. This requires
research and a thorough understanding of what’s being offered to you. Then
define what they are looking for, both now and in the future.
What’s in it for the interviewer?
This one’s very important! Forget about you, and put their needs, wants and
expectations first. Draw up a list and start thinking like and interviewer. It’s sad but
true, that everyone thinks about themselves first, or the WIIFM – What’s in it for me!
Every business wants to be successful. Let them know that you want to be part of
that future vision too.
If you don’t sell yourself in an interview, Who WILL?
Interview Preparation
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What do Employers look for?
Someone who:
 Displays enthusiasm
 Cares
 Is willing to learn and contribute
 Has a “CAN DO” attitude
 Shows interest and knowledge
 Is a team player and communicator
 Is reliable and trustworthy
 Is low maintenance and high return
 Is looking to add value to the
business’
 Present well.
We’re back to selling! It’s just like shopping – they are buying and you are selling.
Let’s look at the above points in more detail and make them work for you.
Display enthusiasm – It is important to be positive, have energy and vitality. Have
goals, vision, pride and a sense of your ability to succeed and do well. If you
transmit this, they will pick up on it and be positive back to you.
Show you care – It’s just a job, who cares! The owners have their house and their
family on the line. The manager has his job on the line. They are entrusting you with
part of their business. They care and so should you. Let them know you’ll do the
right thing and try to make the business successful. Think like an owner.
Show you’re willing to learn and contribute – They want someone who has skills,
ability and a desire to learn. A team player who will add value to the job. You need
to be confident to present yourself in the best light, but never be cocky and
arrogant.
Display a “can do” Attitude – They are looking for performers, players and people
with passion, not a PASSENGERS! Show them that you can hit the ground running,
self manage, are adaptable and have the desire to create positive outcomes
Show interest and knowledge – If you do not exhibit these traits, why should they be
interested in you and motivated to make you an offer? Remember – Interviews are
a 2 way street.
Team player and communicator – Everyone wants a team player, who
communicates well and has strong interpersonal skills. You demonstrate these
qualities if you have done team activities, team leader, volunteer and community
work. Such activities will give you all the information you need to prove your skills in
these areas.
Reliable and trustworthy – Let the interviewer know that you will do the right thing
and have done so in the past. Give examples – responsible for locking up, team
captain, cash handling and any promotion that you may have received.
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Low maintenance and high return – This relates to success/profit for them. The
employer is looking for someone to do the right thing, make them money and do it
in an independent manner. Employers do not want to MICRO manage staff.
Look to add value – Society today is very ME orientated and focussed on instant
gratification. Think about what you can contribute to their business or organisation.
Let them know that you are a giver, not just a taker.
Present well – Your personal presentation and image is very important. People form
an impression and judge you very quickly. Make sure you create a positive first
impression.
Beware of Facebook – Employers do look at your Facebook page
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INTERVIEWERS ARE LOOKING TO ANSWER 3 QUESTIONS DURING THE INTERVIEW
PROCESS
1. CAN you do the job?
2. WILL you do the job?
3. Do you FIT IN?
In interviews where CAN you do the job is important you will be asked questions
about: Your skills
 Knowledge
 Experience and Achievements
 Learning Potential
 Handling the physical aspects of the job
 MERIT part of the interview process
In interviews where WILL you do the job is at issue, you will be asked about: Your long or short term goals
 Your interest in this position, company and industry
 Your work ethics and commitment to work
 Outside influences that may affect your WILLINGLESS or AVAILABILITY (passion
outside work, risky leisure interests)
 Whether you are going to FILL IN or make a CONTRIBUTION
In interviews where Do you FIT IN is critical the interviewer will try to assess: Your level of tact, maturity and courtesy
 Likeability / Chemistry
 Communication
 Your values
 Style (work and management)
 General interests
 Dress and appearance
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INTERVIEWS
Interviews are an integral part of your job search. To be more successful in your job
interviews you need to…
1. Be YOURSELF
2. Be PREPARED
1. BE YOURSELF
Remember to BE YOURSELF!
Employers respond better to people who are natural at an interview. If something is
said that you would normally laugh at then laugh.
If you act naturally you will be one of the applicants who stand out to the employer.
QUOTE
Being yourself helps you to RELAX
Relaxing helps you THINK and ANSWER QUESTIONS BETTER
Thinking and better answers will lead to WINNING THE
RIGHT JOB
2. BE PREPARED
Why perform?
Interviews are not only about what you can do but also how well you can present it.
An interview often selects the person who appears to be the best person for the job,
rather than the person who is best for the job.
Why plan?
Good workers can be denied jobs if they do not interview well. A bit of research
and planning will improve your ability to interview well.
Why prepare?
The following quotes highlight the need to prepare before your next interview.
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Spectacular performance is always preceded by spectacular preparation.
If you fail to prepare, you are preparing for failure.
Preparation compensates for lack of talent.
Preparation does not take time, it saves time.
Interview Preparation
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TYPES OF INTERVIEWS
You may experience different types of interviews during your job search. It’s
important that you understand the purpose of each.
Telephone Interview
Telephone interviews are used as an initial screening process. It is important
that you treat this type of interview just as seriously as a face-to-face interview.
Even if you are nervous, you should try to speak clearly, keeping a moderate
pace so the interviewer can understand you. You may ask for clarification of
questions it they are not clear. You should also have all your documents with
you, especially the advertised job, so you can use the skills required for the
position.
One on One Interview
This is the most common type of interview, where a job applicant has a faceto-face meeting with the employer. It can be easy to develop rapport with the
interviewer in a 1x1 interview, but it can be just as easy to get the interviewer
off-side. As in this case there is only one person making the decision, you must
do everything you can to impress that person.
Panel Interviews
Panel interviews are conducted by 2 to 5 people who usually hold various
managerial positions in the organisation. The panel will often consist of people
you will be working with if you get the job. As with all interviews, you should
know the names of the panel members before you attend. It is important to
treat each panel member equally and make sure you greet them individually
and in the same way. While applicants often feel more nervous in a panel
interview, the advantage of this style of interview is that having more than one
person involved can increase your chances of being able to build rapport.
Having more than one interviewer also increases the likelihood that an
objective decision will be made.
Group Interview
This involves being interviewed at the same time as other job applicants. The
purpose of this type of interview can be to see how you relate to other people
and work within a team. This means the interviewer may be looking for
leadership qualities, communication and interpersonal skills, how you react with
new people under pressure and your problem solving skills.
Behavioural Interview
Employers often consider the best predictor of future performance to be past
behaviours. On this basis the interviewer will ask a series of detailed questions
about your past experiences in areas relevant to the job. For these interviews it
is important to prepare a variety of stories and experiences which demonstrate
your ability to meet the selection criteria.
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WHY DO PEOPLE HATE INTERVIEWS
It is only NATURAL to hate interviews. The reasons why are:
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You are being judged
Fear of failure
You are looked up and down
Public speaking – No 1 fear in the
world
You are in the SPOTLIGHT
People feel nervous about
interviews
JOBSEEKER MINDSET
“Nice or honest people are always fixated on the RIGHT ANSWER”. There is no right
answer.
Top performing people at interviews will manipulate the answer “FOR THE BEST
ANSWER FOR ME”
Jobseekers tend to say the SAME BAD ANSWERS in interview after interview as they
simply do not know any better.
If you have a competitive side, use it. Try to see every question as an opportunity to
gain ‘points’ in order to win the ultimate prize – ‘the job’.
In order to control nerves try to keep things in perspective, and remember:
Regardless of the outcome, if you give it ‘your best shot’ you can’t fail - the
only way you can really fail is if you choose not to prepare, you don’t try or
you don’t learn from your mistakes.
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You haven’t got the job before you attend the interview, so if you try and still
don’t get the job, you have lost nothing – you have gained experienced and
will be a step closer to getting that job!
QUOTE: “Interviews are not about the best person for the job – this is merely
coincidental. Interviews are about who APPEARS to be the best person for the job”.
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PRE INTERVIEW
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Presentation for the Interview
Your appearance and physical presentation is a major factor in creating a good first
impression.
The instant an employer sets eyes on you, the must believe that you have made an
effort to look your best for the visit or the interview: it will also show what you have
respect for the person you are visiting and consider the occasion as important.
Wear clothing that fits you well and will represent the type of job you are after, this
will help the employer to visualise you in the job
QUOTE – “The first 20-30 seconds count for 60-70% of the impression.” You don’t get
a second chance to make a first impression. So be yourself and act naturally
For example:
Office Duties – suits, slacks, jacks and ties
Stores/labouring – casual shirt and clean jeans
Sales/Hospitality/Medical – black pants or skirt with a
white shirt
Fashion/Art supplies – colourful clothing and jewellery
If in doubt, wear a conservative outfit.
Limit the amount of jewellery and accessories and cover
tattoos is possible – these may be distracting when you
are in an interview, you want the focus to be on your skills
and abilities.
You may be preoccupied or nervous before an interview or an employer visit, so
have a checklist as a reminder:
– Showered
– Freshly shaved
– Deodorant
– Teeth brushed
– Hair, clean and not falling in your eyes
– Nails , clean – natural or a light nail polish
– Light perfume or aftershave
– Make up – natural shades and minimal amount
– Shoes – clean and appropriate to the job, avoid thongs or runners
– Mobile phone – turn it off before entering the employers premises
– Hats/Caps and sunglasses – take them off when entering an employers
premises
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INTERVIEW FOLDER
Why take an interview folder?
 Demonstrate that you are organised and prepared for the interview.
 You are there to win.
 It will be a resource for you if your mind goes blank during the interview.
 Something to do with your hands – hold your folder.
 Builds your confidence.
 Maybe an icebreaker in the interview. Interviewer may ask what is in the
folder.
What needs to be included in the folder?
 Resume – take additional copies for the interviewer(s).
 Relevant documentation e.g. qualifications, certificates, written references
etc.
 A list of questions that you are going to ask.
 Your company research.
 Your covering letter that got you the interview.
 Referee list, if it is not included in your resume.
 Example of your work eg. Graphic design etc.
 Self Marketing Commercial
PRE-INTERVIEW - THINGS TO REMEMBER ON THE DAY
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Arrive early, visit the bathroom, report to reception and collect your thoughts
Make sure that you turn your mobile phone off.
Adopt a positive, pleasant attitude
Relax – think of the interview as a conversation, not an interrogation.
Bring along a diary / pen / paper.
Dress to reflect the industry expectations
Try to remember the interviewer’s name and use it throughout the interview.
When you arrive state clearly your name and who you are there to see.
Give a firm handshake
Maintain regular eye contact
Be positive, have goals and show passion
If you are late, make sure you phone to advise the interviewer and apologise.
Get rid of chewing gum and be careful of smoking just before the interview
as the smell can be off-putting for non-smokers.
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RESEARCH THE COMPANY
What you need to research is:
 Size and growth patterns
 Products & services
 Company Values
 Competitive profile
 Culture & reputation
 Company history
 Direction
 Company Mission Statement
 Company Vision
If you are unable to find any information about the company on the internet, you
may be limited to word of mouth or ring the receptionist and find out information
about the company.
QUOTE
“If you cannot demonstrate some interest in how the company makes its
money, they are unlikely to offer you any of it”.
Example of Company Research - TOYOTA
Company Information
 Japanese company and global
manufacturer
 No 1 car seller in Australia in 2005
 Sites - Port Melbourne, Altona and Geelong
 927 Employees
 $2.1 billion invested in Australia
 Biggest car exporter in Australia
 Exports around 300,000 cars per year
 Sponsors AFL, Commonwealth Games and
has a Formula 1 racing team
Products and Services
 Cars, Van, Utes, 4WD, Industrial Forklift, Trucks light
 Model include: Corolla, Camry, Echo, Landcruisers, RAV4, Celicia, Tarago etc
Target Market
 Middle East, USA, South Pacific and Worldwide
Major Competitors
 Ford, Holden, Mitsubishi
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THE INTERVIEW
QUOTE – “The first 20-30 seconds count for 60-70% of the impression.” You don’t get
a second chance to make a first impression. So be yourself and act naturally
Create a good first impression – remember it takes three
seconds to form a first impression.
Arrive 5 to 10 minutes earlier than your scheduled interview, if
you have arrived any earlier, the sit in the car or go for a
short walk; you want to appear keen but not overly so.
Arriving too early may be a detrimental as arriving late; it
may indicate poor time management or organisational skills.
Arriving late for an interview is not acceptable unless you have an emergency or an
event has occurred that is out of your control. If you are running late – ring the
employer, leave an apology, a brief reason why you are late and what time you
anticipate arriving.
AT THE INTERVIEW
Greet the receptionist. Introduce yourself, and explain why you are here and who
you need to see, you will be asked to sit or wait and someone will usually come out
to meet you and take you to the interview room.
Greet the employer, make eye contact, tell them your name and shake hands. If
the employer leads you to an interview room, walk at their pace – this send an
immediate message that you are keen and interested.
If there are additional interviewers, greet each person, repeat their name and shake
hands. Don’t sit until you are invited to do so.
SMALL TALK
Find a neutral place not a negative place and don’t go into too much detail.
“Did you find the place okay?”
Avoid comments like; “Yes, but I had to park in a no standing area, so l will probably
get a ticket.”
If you are nervous, mention it. The interview has started.
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BODY LANGUAGE
When people use spoken languages to communicate,
they don’t listen solely to what is being said to
understand the message. They also look at the person
who is speaking to see their facial expression, what they
are doing, and also listen to the way they are saying the
words in order to understand the full message.
Body language is the term used to describe the messages
you put across to others (either consciously or
subconsciously) through nonverbal cues.
No more than 30% of the message is conveyed by your
words and tone. The rest (70%) comes from your body
language.
Often our body language expresses how we are feeling
before we say anything at all. Some interviewers will see
your body language as a reflection of the motivation
behind what you are saying.
It is important that your body language in an interview
conveys alertness, interest, friendliness and confidence.
Be aware of your own body language, try to improve
the message you are sending in an interview.
 Avoid crossing your arms or legs, this is a
defensive position and forms a barrier between
you and the employer
 Eye contact – maintain comfortable eye
contact, avoid staring and try to look at each
person if there is more and one interviewer
 Sit up straight, but relax your shoulders to take
the tension out
 Give your own body language signals that you
are listening e.g. nod, uh huh
 Wait until the interviewer has finished speaking
before you start to answer
 Smile naturally, and only if your mean it
 Slow your speech down – you will appear calm and in control
 Talk loudly enough to be heard clearly
 Avoid fidgeting or touching your face, this is distracting in an interview, it may
be an indication that you are not confident of your abilities
 Think positively – this will show in your voice and actions
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Keep an eye on the employer during the
interview, valuable clues can be given:
 Eye contact broken – looking away –
warning sign, may be disinterested or
bored, change topics or shorten your
response
 Puzzled look, frown – they may need
further explanation or clarification on
your information
 Sitting forward and nodding – interested
and alert
 Rubbing eye and chin – indicates
disbelief, you may have exaggerated a
skills or ability, try and correct to give
another example
VOICE/TONE
Your tone is important and can change the entire meaning of what you are saying.
The tone in your voice says a lot, so pay careful attention to this.
Speaking in a monotone voice, for example, may give the impression that you lack
enthusiasm or energy or that you are not interested in what is being discussed.
Where possible it is good to emphasise areas of interest by changing you tone, or to
speed up or slow down your rate of speech in order to strengthen the point that you
are making.
Project your voice and speak clearly - Mumbling and speaking quietly shows a lack
of confidence and can be very frustrating for the interviewer if they constantly have
trouble hearing or understanding you.
CONNECTING WITH ALL PEOPLE ON THE INTERVIEW PANEL
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Engage all interviewers with eye contact but concentrate on the person who
asked the question. When answering the question bring in all the interviewers
with eye contact.
If directed by another person for the question, move in the chair and face
the person asking the question but make eye contact with all the panel
member/s.
DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE LIKEABILITY FACTOR
If it comes down to two candidates with similar experience and skills, the decision
may be based partially on who the interviewer(s) like or relate to the best, and
certainly who they think would fit in and work best with the existing team.
Remember: Try to be yourself. However, even if an interview is very informal, never
forget that it is a competition!
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LENGTH OF INTERVIEW
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Rule of thumb: the longer the interview the better the interview.
Two minute rule – Standard answers are around 30 seconds but don’t talk for
longer than two minutes because you will start rambling.
BEST WAY TO ANSWER QUESTIONS
Every time when you answer a question use the following:
1.
Wisdom
2.
Insight
3.
Understanding
Most people get jobs by using WISDOM and LIKEABILITY
CLOSING THE INTERVIEW
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You have the opportunity to ask questions
You may be asked if there is anything you would like to add
Make sure you leave a final positive impression
What will happen next and when? Find out when a decision is likely to be
made
Thank the interviewer(s) for their time
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POST INTERVIEW SELF ASSESSMENT
Sureway Improvement Cycle
Preparation
Act
Review
After you have left the employer’s building, try and find a quiet spot to write down
the interview questions and your responses. It’s important that you do this as soon
after the interview as possible, while your memory is still clear and fresh.
There are 3 ways that you can review your interview performance:
1. Contact the interviewer and get feedback on your performance at the
interview
2. Self assessment – What you did well and what you could have improved (+ vs
-)\
a. What question did your answer well?
b. Were there any surprise questions that you weren’t prepared for?
c. What was the body language of the interviewer?
d. Did I make any mistakes? What can I learn from these?
e. Was your presentation good? Grooming, clothing, documents prepared
f. Did you look and sound confident? Posture, Tone of voice.
3. Write down the interview questions - Why?
g. You are able to assess the way you answered the questions – use a person
that you know to give you constructive/negative feedback.
h. Learn from your interview experiences and build your performance for
next time
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INTERVIEW REVISION - TIPS
1. Most people hate interviews. You are not the only one who hates them. Do not
let this discomfort detract from your interview
2. Do the preparation. Which questions will be asked? What can I find out about
the job/organisation? Who will run through some answers with me?
3. It is likely that the majority of people being interviewed will have the same or
similar information. It is how the information is presented that is the main factor in
an interview. Spend time on preparation.
4. Do not underestimate the LIKEABILITY factor in the interview process. Employers
choose people they believe they can work with, people they like. If you are to
be liked, the employer has to know you. Give an insight to your values.
5. The vast majority of people do not interview well. A little work in preparation and
delivery goes a long way.
6. The mental approach to questions is the major difference between good
interviewees and poor interviewees. Good interviewees treat each question as
an opportunity to sell themselves. Poor interviewees see questions as a request
for information.
7. Be careful of small talk. The interview starts from the first moment of contact.
8. Remember to smile – it makes you appear confident and relaxed, even when
you are not.
9. Try not to be too informal, even if the interviewer’s approach is relaxed and
casual – it is still a competition.
10. Speak in as close to a conversational mode as you can. No phone voice or false
air and graces. Seek to create some intimacy.
11. Make sure your body language matches your words.
12. Use positive language and give the impression that you are sure. Be careful of
using “I might” or “I guess”.
13. Pause before answering all main questions. Create space by repeating the
questions. Rushing in with an answer and faltering is a sign of immaturity.
14. Maintain good eye contact. Speak to the person who asks the questions,
remembering to have eye contact with others on each major point.
15. Adults remember the first and last items they hear better than they remember
the middle ones. Grab the first or last interview spot if you can. Make major
points at the start and end of the question. First and last impressions are vital.
16. Introduce the end of your answer. If the answer is lengthy, interviewer tends to
turn off.
17. Give your answers a structure. Interviewers do not like to have to work at listening
to an answer. Make sure your answers follow a path. Like a good story, good
answers have an identifiable start, middle and end.
18. Speak from experience at every opportunity. “What I have done in this situation”
is more powerful than “what I would do”. Experience outside the direct
workplace is still experience.
19. Talk about your good points but be careful not to cross the line into conceit.
20. Ask relevant questions. Ask about the interview process. Do not ask for details
about the job. Don’t let the questions undo your good work.
Interview Preparation
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SELF MARKETING COMMERCIAL
Qualification/s
List your qualification/s (or certificates)
Experience
List all your relevant experience
Q1.
Tell me about yourself?
“I want to hear you talk”.
This is perhaps hardest and most important
question.
 Tells employers what you consider
important
 Gives employers insight into your values
 Tells employers what you’ve accomplished
 Helps employers determine how well you’d
fit into the company culture
This question comes early in an interview - a time
when the initial impression is forming. A weak first
impact may colour the interviewer’s perceptions
about all that follows.
When answering the “Tell me about yourself”
question focus on the BEST you can offer.
Skills/Strengths
“”My skills and strengths that I can bring to your
organisation are:
1.
2.
Your commercial can include any of the following
information:
 your job title or position for which you’re
applying
 your qualifications
 positions of leadership
 specific skills applicable to the job
 specific job training
 date of expected graduation (if
applicable)
SELF MARKETING EXAMPLE
3.
Qualification/s
My qualifications for assistant manager are:
 Certificate IV in Hospitality (Management)
 Responsible Service of Alcohol
4.
Experience
“I have five years of experience in the hospitality
field from being waiter to the running of a
restaurant whilst the owner was on holidays and
three years of experience working in a call centre
role.”
5.
6.
Skills/Strengths
Your Values/Hobbies and Interests
1.
2.
Interview Preparation
My skills and qualities are:
1.Take pride in delivering exceptional customer
service to ensure repeat business
2.Great interpersonal and communication skills that
allow me to build instant rapport with customers
3.Management of up to 10 staff members
4.Training and development of staff to deliver
exceptional customer service
5.Ability to motivate staff and foster a successful
business culture
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Q2.
“WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST STRENGTHS?” – Personality
Most commonly asked question at an interview but people refuse to answer it.
The interviewer is asking: “What are you good at and how is it going to help the
business”?
This is an obvious question, so be prepared.
Best answer – Take what strengths you have back to the JOB
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Q3.
“WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST WEAKNESS?”
Whispering Death Questions – Evil Question
The interviewer is saying “We are inviting you to tell us why you should NOT GET THE
JOB”
 People are too honest and can give too much information about themselves
This is a typical ploy so BE PREPARED. Do not say “none”, or you may be crossed off
the list. Everyone has weaknesses… no one is perfect!
You have three options:
1. Use a professional rather than a personal weakness, and select an experience
not necessarily required for this job e.g. “I think a real weakness is my lack of
public speaking and it is a useful skill for any job".
2. Describe a weakness that could be perceived as a strength e.g. “I know my
colleagues think that I’m too demanding at times, but I’ve learnt to be more
diplomatic”.
3. Acknowledge that you have a weakness but you are putting measures in place
to fix it e.g. “I have a weakness with using a certain computer package (MYOB)
but I am attending a class at night to try and bring myself up to speed”.
What is your weakness?
What you are doing/done about it?
Interview Preparation
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Q4.
WHY DO YOU WANT TO WORK FOR OUR COMPANY?
The interviewer wants to know whether you will be satisfied in this position and
whether you are likely to stay.
Suggestion:
Positive comments relating to the following may reassure the interviewer: the company’s good reputation
 your desire / passion to carry out the type of work
 your confidence in being able to succeed in the role
 Your personal goals are in line with the goals of the company
Q5.
IF I WAS TO ASK YOUR WORK COLLEAGUES FROM YOUR PREVIOUS JOB, WHAT 3
WORDS WOULD THEY USE TO DESCRIBE YOU?
The interviewer is asking you to describe yourself the way you think other people see
you. Remember to use some words that are interesting, not just the standard –
Honest, hardworking and reliable. This can become boring to the employer if they
hear the same words from every person they interview. Get creative, but make sure
you understand what the words actually mean!
1.
2.
3.
Q6. "WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT TO DATE?"
The interviewer is saying, "Are you an achiever?"
Answer: Again this is a common question so be prepared. Select an achievement
that is recent. Identify skills you used in the achievement and quantify the benefit.
Interview Preparation
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Q7.
“WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 1/2/5 YEARS?” – Goals
The years will depend on your age (e.g. older 1 year, younger 5 years).
Know where you are now and be realistic. Some people are ambitious and others
are not.
Avoid comments that suggest that you may not stay with the company.
Answer: Take yourself to job satisfaction and what you value in a job.
Short Term
-
Enjoying working in a successful team
To have gained the respect of others
Being a valued member of the team
Keeping busy
Continually learning in the job
Mid/Long Term
- Given more responsibilities
- Involved in the decision making process
- Enhance my skills and knowledge set
- Valued by management
Short Term
Mid Term
Long Term
Interview Preparation
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Q8.
“WHY DID YOU LEAVE YOUR LAST POSITION?”
Don't lie. But don't forget you control what you tell the interviewer.
Think about what you convey with your body language. It's as important as what
you say. Don't get defensive or uncomfortable. Be positive and confident in how
you present your answer.
Suggestion: Choose one of the reason/s from the following acronym, CLAMPS
Challenge – you weren’t able to grow professionally in that position
Location – the travel was unreasonably long
Advancement – There was nowhere for you to go as there were too many people
ahead of you
Money – You were underpaid for your skills and contribution
Pride or Prestige – You want to work with a well known company
Security – Company was unstable
Other reasons may include:



It was a temporary position
You wanted to work in an area that is more in line with your interests
You relocated
Q9. "WHY SHOULD WE HIRE YOU?"
This question presents the opportunity to summarise your key skills, relevant
experience, personal attributes, positive attitude / enthusiasm and achievements.
Make sure that you highlight what you can bring to the company.
Interview Preparation
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Q10. IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO DISCUSS WITH ME RELEVANT TO YOUR
APPLICATION?
This is your chance to advise the interviewer of any additional information that you
think you need them to know about yourself, your skills, qualifications and
experience that you haven’t already told them. You may have thought “I should
have told them about this or that” and missed the opportunity previously, so it’s your
second chance to give them the extra info. Remember to re-enforce that you really
want this opportunity and you feel you would be a great employee and asset to the
company.
Q11.
“DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?”
Make sure you have prepared a list of questions prior to your interview. Asking the
interviewer(s) questions shows that you are interested and that you want to
contribute to the company.
What do you do if you have no questions about the job as you have researched it
prior to the interview, or the interviewer has answered your questions before you
have the opportunity to ask them?
- Ask questions about the selection process
- When will I start?
- When will the decision be made?
- Is there training involved?
- Indicate to the interviewer that they have already covered the questions
that you planned to ask.
Example of questions that you may ask at an interview:









Why has this position become available?
Are tools and equipment provided?
What is a typical work day/week like?
What opportunities exist for advancement/training?
How is an employee evaluated and promoted?
Is it company policy to promote within?
What would be my conditions of employment (salary/super/entitlements)?
Is there an opportunity for overtime/weekend work?
What is the expected dress code/attire (does the company supply uniforms)?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Interview Preparation
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Some Extra Questions that may arise during an interview…
Q12.
“WHY WERE YOU OUT OF WORK FOR SO LONG?”
You must have a sound and feasible explanation for this one. Don’t attempt to gloss
over the question, as it’s an issue that most prospective employers take seriously.
You need to emphasise that you were seriously considering your next move, rather
than just looking for another pay cheque. You enjoy your work and are determined
that the next job you take will be one where you can settle down and make a solid
long-term contribution.
Q13. "WHAT MOTIVATES YOU?"
Employers love self-motivators. If you make the interviewer think that you must be
constantly motivated in order to get the job done, you will seriously harm your
interview chances. Be unequivocal in your response.
Sample Answer
“I need very little motivation in work or any other aspect of my life. I have a strong
natural drive and I take great pride in my work. I want to be successful at everything
I do and I will not settle for second best. That is all the motivation I need”.
Interview Preparation
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BEHAVIOURAL QUESTIONS (Please use the STAR method to answer)
Question 1: ___________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
Situation
Task
Action
Result
Question 2: ___________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Situation
Task
Action
Result
Interview Preparation
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COMPANY RESEARCH - “WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT OUR COMPANY?”
In response to this question list key points that you discovered whilst researching the
company. If it is down to the last few applicants and interviewers are having trouble
deciding, a good answer to this question could win you the job.
Company History (When did they start,
location, number of branches, number of
staff etc.)
Products and Services (what do they do,
how do they make their money?)
Mission, Vision, Values (If applicable)
Competitive Profile / Edge (What makes
them different to other businesses in the
industry?)
Target Market (What kind of customers
are they trying to attract?)
Competitors (What other businesses are
in the same industry?)
Interview Preparation
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QUESTIONS FROM YOUR RESUME
In preparing for an interview it is important to not only prepare for the common interview
questions listed above, but also to predict and prepare for those questions that an
interviewer may ask that relate to the information you have presented in your resume.
Things you need to consider in preparing for questions that may arise from your resume
include: Gaps in work history - how you can explain these
 No referees from recent positions – why?
 Short periods of employment – reasons behind this
 No career path – why you have had different jobs and your future direction
 Lack of qualifications relating to chosen field
 Over qualified – motivation behind applying for the job
 Why you are unemployed
 Why you left your last position
QUESTIONS THAT MAY BE RAISED FROM YOUR RESUMÉ
Checklist
Does your resume show any gaps in your work history?
Do you lack referees from your most recent position(s)?
Does your resume show short periods of employment?
Have you changed between industries?
Do you lack qualifications in your chosen field?
Could you be considered over qualified for the type of work
you are applying for?
Are the jobs you applying for in a different field / industry to
your previous position(s)?
Have you recently left / or plan to leave a long term position?
Yes / No
Yes / No
Yes / No
Yes / No
Yes / No
Yes / No
Yes / No
Yes / No
Did you answer ‘Yes’ to any of the above questions? If so you may be asked related
questions in an interview.
What questions could be raised from your resume? Please think of 3 questions and
prepare appropriate answers.
1. _____________________________________________________________________________
2. _____________________________________________________________________________
3. _____________________________________________________________________________
Interview Preparation
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MOCK INTERVIEW REFLECTION SHEET
What went well for you in the interview?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
What did not work well in the interview?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
What did you find most difficult in the interview, and why do you think that is?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
What did you find the easiest in the interview and why do you think that is?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
What do you need to work on?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
What strategies will you use/or resource do you need to assist you in working on
those things that you have identified?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
What is your rating of your performance (from 1 to ten)
Poor
1.
2.
Interview Preparation
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Excellent
10.
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