Interview techniques

1. Think about yourself

It is important before an interview to think about all the reasons why you are attending it and what you have to offer the organization. Be ready to discuss both short and long term career goals in general terms.

2. Gaps in CV

You will also need to explain gaps in employment. If you worked in a temporary capacity but didn’t put it on your CV, know the details of which companies you worked with, what you did for them and the length of the assignments

3. Reasons for leaving

Prepare to discuss the reasons you left your previous jobs. If it was for a better opportunity, explain why it was better. If you left against your wish, present the reason in the positive way. Make sure your responses are honest and be positive.

4. Research the job

Before attending any interview it is a good idea to research the organization through website or any other possible sources and familiarize yourself with the following:

• Size of organization, number of employees
• History, how long have they been operating – do they have any affiliated organizations or belong to an umbrella group?
• General information about their services/products/aims etc
• Major competitors or other organisations operating in the same field
• Job description – understand the skills required for the position

Also:

Try to form a sense of the relationship between the open position and other members of staff - have a sense for the department.

Have some well thought-out questions that would help further your understanding of the organisation.

How will the organization be affected by the new legislation on xyz…

How do you see the organization developing over the next year/three/five years?

Make sure you pass any feedback to your consultant about how you thought the interview went and tell us whether you would be interested in the job if it were to be offered to you.