Being Interviewed | Online and Distance Learning

Being Interviewed: Preparation And The Interview Itself

Submitted by admin on Sun, 12/25/2011 - 13:41

You're being interviewed!! So you've researched all the jobs, applied for a job, been shortlisted and now you're going to be interviewed for a job. This page is about how to succeed in an interview for a job. This is the third step in "getting a job" and is probably the hardest.

There are two parts to "Being Interviewed" - Interview Preparation and The Interview itself:

Preparation for being interviewed

Don't just walk into the interview unprepared. You must spend time researching and rehearsing thoroughly for the interview.

Here are some tips on preparing for an interview:

Think beforehand about the questions you are likely to be asked.
If you placed some "bait" (hints that you could say more) in your application or covering letter, then prepare your interview answers to these thoroughly.
Continue with your research on the company or organization. Work out how your strengths can help them or be used and how you can weave this into any questions you might be asked.
In your preparation for being interviewed, think of at least one likely question for each of the criteria for the job and make sure that you have an answer for each one.

The Interview itself

Don't treat the interview as if it were a chat with your neighbour. You must think carefully about and moderate your verbal and non-verbal behaviour at all times.

Arrive early and appropriately dressed for being interviewed.
When asked to walk into the room, do so confidently, but not arrogantly.
Be prepared to shake hands but not surprised if simply asked to sit. Don't sit unless asked to do so.
Try to remember the names of the interviewers when introduced, and then use them in your answers.
Address your answer initially to the interviewer who asked it, but then also turn to include all the other interviewers.
Keep your answers short and to the point. Do not be afraid to ask for a repeat of the question if you did not hear or understand.
Never argue with the interviewer.
Be aware of non-verbal communication - such as that indicating that they would like to finish and move to the next interview.
When asked if you have any questions or further points you would like to make, what are the interview questions to ask? Well, do not ask about holidays and pay. Instead, use this part of being interviewed as an opportunity to bring out any of your knowledge and strengths that have not been covered in the interview. Or use it to emphasize your main strengths. But do not talk for long - remember that there are probably several others being interviewed after you.

Click here if you want to go back to the step before being interviewed for a job.