Interviewing Trends Update

Preparing for an Interview
Because information is so accessible these days, employer expectations about the level of preparation you need to go to, prior to an interview, has increased.  No longer is this a ‘hit and miss’ affair. Instead we are operating in an environment where ‘preparation meets opportunity’ so a few logical steps should be put in place to ensure you are prepared and ready to manage the questions that will come your way.

Steps

1. Visit the company web site to get a feel for the type of company they are and what they do.  Employers love hearing about themselves and whilst this is actually expected, they are still delighted when you are able to refer to something you have noted from their website.
2. Google the company for any media articles about them. This will give you insight into the positive news or challenges they may have reported in recent months and make great discussion topics.
3. Read the position description (if provided) carefully and more than once.  Don’t be afraid to ask for one as it is important that you know exactly what role you are applying for. Note any questions that you might want clarified during the interview.
4. When reading the position description, start to think about the types of questions you may be asked, for example:
   -    So, tell me about yourself
   -    Why did you leave your last job?
   -    Why do you want to do this job / work for this company?
   -    What do you think you have to offer this company?
   -    What do you think this position involves?
   -    What do you know about the company?
   -    Do you have any questions you would like to ask?
   -    What do you believe are your key strengths?
   -    What do you believe are your weaknesses?
   -    What do you enjoy most about your current / last job?
   -    Do you work well under pressure?   Tell me about when something went wrong?
   -    Tell me about a time when you have encountered conflict in the workplace?
   -    Have you ever had to deal with conflicting deadlines? How did you decide which task to complete?

Hint:  
When formulating your answers, or indeed when you are actually in the interview, a handy thing to remember is ‘STAR’:  Situation - Task - Action - Result. No matter what level the position is, if you use STAR to guide you when giving examples as part of an interview you will stay on track and keep to the point (crucial when interviewing!)

Q:  Tell me about when something went wrong?
A:   Well the situation was this..................... and I was asked to do this.........................so the action I took was to .............................. and the result was.......................

Note:
For specific roles (e.g. Credit Controller), try spending a little time on Google researching and you will be able to bring up lists of recommended interview questions that relate specifically to that position.
 
We spend a lot of time advising people how to prepare for an interview as part of our commitment to candidate support. Time and time again we see that the individuals who actually take the time to prepare properly for an interview are the ones that rise above the other contenders and get the job.  It shows real interest and commitment, which are ideal qualities in a potential employee!

Jane Kennelly
Director, Frog Recruitment Ltd