Interview tips
These tips should help you with everything from
showing up on time, to answering questions with confidence. Make
sure you blow the interviewers socks off!
Timing
You won't get the job if you can't make it there on time! It's
always crucial that you arrive to an interview 5 or 10 minutes
before it is scheduled. Leave home earlier than you normally would
incase there are any traffic delays.
Hand Shake and Eye Contact
In New Zealand in particular it is customary to always stand up to
greet and shake another's hand. Ensure that you stand straight,
smile and give a firm hand shake. Eye contact is also crucial, so
ensure you look your interviewer/s directly in the eye when you
shake their hand.
Be Concise
Don't get your rambling going if you are nervous! Interviewees
rambling on are one of the most common blunders. You really have to
listen to the question, answer the question, and answer it
concisely. Ensure that what you say directly relates to the
question.
Provide Examples
It's one thing to say you can do something, it's another to give
examples of things you have done. Try to anticipate the questions a
recruiter's going to ask based on the requirement of the role.
Think of recent strong strategic examples of work you've done, then
when the question is asked, answer with specifics, not
generalities. You should say, "Yes, I've done that before. Here's
an example of a time I did that...." You will have the interviewer
singing your praises in no time!
Be Honest
Somehow, candidates get the impression that it's best to try to
dance around difficult questions. If you don't have a skill, just
state it. Don't try to cover it up by talking and giving examples
that aren't relevant. You're much better off saying you don't have
that skill but perhaps you do have some related skills, and you're
happy to tell them about that if they like.
Ask Great Questions
Pull out those questions you wrote beforehand. Show interest in the
company, the opportunities, growth and development. Show enthusiasm
but maintain your professionalism. Whatever you do, don't lie and
don't try to grease the interviewer up with compliments, it will
not help you.
Closing and Thanks
In closing the interview, remind the interviewer of your
availability, your interest in the position and the things about
the job you are most excited about. Thank them sincerely for their
time and�let them know that you will look forward to hearing from
them.
Smile!
Follow Up
So, now that the recruiter has your QJumpers CV and you have
showcased your excellent interview skills there are a few things
you could do to follow up, depending on the type of job and
recruiter.
If any of the following options apply, you could:
-Write them a very brief letter to thank them for their time at the
interview, confirm your interest in the position after learning
more about it and confirm your availability.
-Give them a quick phone call and say the same as above.
If, after the interview you are not feeling good about working
for them, or in the mean time while you are waiting to hear back
you accepted another job offer, give them a courtesy call to let
them know and thank them for their consideration.
