Job interview techniques for during the Job interview
Make a positive and professional first impression by being assertive and
giving a firm handshake to each interviewer and addressing each interviewer by
name as he or she is introduced. Try to remain as calm as possible. Ask for
clarification if you're not sure what's been asked and remember that it is
perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to frame your responses so you can
be sure to fully answer the question.
Don’t let the employer’s casual approach cause you to drop your manners or
professionalism. You should maintain a professional image. Don't address
the interviewer by his or her first name unless you are invited to. Reinforce
your professionalism and your ability to communicate effectively by speaking
clearly and avoiding "uhs", "you knows", and slang. Keep your answers
brief and
concise. Unless asked to give more details, limit your answers to two to three
minutes per question. Tape yourself and see how long it takes you to fully
answer a question.
Use appropriate wording. You won't receive extra points for each words
that has more than 10 letters. Use technical terms only when appropriate
to the question. Don't
ever interrupt the interviewer, even if you are anxious and enthusiastic about
answering the question. End the interview with a thank you to the
interviewer and reiterate your interest in the position. Repeat your key
strengths three times. It’s essential that you comfortably and confidently
articulate your strengths. Explain how your strengths relate to the company’s or
department’s goals and how they might benefit the potential employer. If you
repeat your strengths then they will be remembered and—if supported with
quantifiable accomplishments—they will more likely be believed.
Be aware of your non-verbal behaviours - sit straight, smile as often
as you can, maintain eye contact but don't stare the interviewer down, lean
forward but not invading the interviewer's space. Sit still in your seat; avoid
fidgeting and slouching.
Nonverbal Communication during the Interview
·
Make eye contact with the interviewer for a few
seconds at a time.
·
Smile and nod (at appropriate times) when the
interviewer is talking, but, don't overdo it. Don't laugh unless the interviewer
does first.
·
Be polite and keep an even tone to your speech.
Don't be too loud or too quiet.
·
Don't slouch.
·
Do relax and lean forward a little towards the
interviewer so you appear interested and engaged.
·
Don't lean back. You will look too casual and
relaxed.
·
Keep your feet on the floor and your back against
the lower back of the chair.
·
Pay attention, be attentive and interested.
·
Listen.
·
Stay calm. Even if you had a bad experience at a
previous position , keep your emotions to yourself and do not show anger or frown.
· Not sure what to do with your hands? Hold a pen and your notepad or rest an arm on the chair , so you look comfortable.
Questions to ask the interviewer
Candidates who do not ask any questions represent the number one behaviour that causes recruiters to lose confidence, according to a survey of over 100 recruiters, job coaches, and hiring managers. Still, it’s not too bold to make this statement: you cannot succeed in a job interview without asking a number of well-considered questions.
Examples of such questions are listed below
Now that we have talked about my qualifications and past successes, do you have any concerns about me fulfilling the responsibilities of this position?
In what area could your team use a little enhancement?
Why did you come to this particular Company?
What does this company value the most and how do you think my work for you will further these values?
What kinds of processes are in place to help me work as part of a team?
What can I bring to the company to add further synergy to the team?
What’s the most important thing I can do to help within the first 3 months of my employment?
What do you see in me? What are my strongest assets and possible weaknesses? Do you have any concerns that I need to clear up in order to be the top candidate?
Is this a new position? If not, what did the previous employee go on to do?
Who does this position report to? If I am offered the position, can I meet him/her?
What are the prospects for growth and advancement?
What do you like about working here?
What don't you like about working here and what would you change?
Are there any other questions I can answer for you?