A successful
interview is obviously an essential step toward fulfilment of your job
search. An interview’s purpose is to enable you and the company to
identify and evaluate mutual and relevant areas of interest and need.
It is a two-sided conversation where information can be exchanged, not a one-sided interrogation. Interviewing
requires preparation.
Screening Interviews
Usually
conducted by the Human Resources Department or by a recruitment consultant.
The screening interview compares a set of position specifications to those of the candidate, eliminating those who do
not meet the specific criteria.
By taking an assertive approach and
asking questions about the position, the reporting structure and
informing the interviewer about your background, strengths and how
they match the job requirements, you are in a better position to get
past the screener and on to the person who makes the decision.
Informal Interviews
Upon showing interest in a position or a company, you may be invited by someone to come and have a coffee and a chat to discuss what you are after.
While an informal interview may be informal by definition, you should still prepare as if you are going to any other interview. Find out about the person and their company, dress smartly and know what you want to say.
While a position may not be immediately available, the person may have a future opportunity in mind, may be in a position to create a new position in their company or know of other opportunities.
Be prepared to highlight your strengths, ask advice and if no opportunities are available, ask if they know of anyone who might be able to help you find a position like the one you are after.
 Job Interviews
Usually conducted by the person who has the authority to hire you
or to whom you would report. The interviewer makes a decision not
only as to whether your qualifications and experience are relevant
to the position, but how you will ‘fit’ in a particular department
or division and into the company as a whole.
It is your opportunity
to determine whether the environment is a ‘fit’ for you. A
discussion or question and answer format is common as both parties
seek to gather information.
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Group Interviews
Group interviews are usually conducted by an employer or recruiter and involve you and a number of other job seekers as participants.
You may be asked questions individually or questions might be put to the group to answer.
Group interviews are most often used for the following reasons:
recruiting multiple employees all at once (cost effectiveness)
the employer wants to see how you interact with others (e.g. will you voice your opinion yet still let others have their say?)
the employer wants to see if you will confidently take the initiative in communications (as is often required in sales positions)
As well as questions, in group interviews you may be asked to undertake activities or problem solve in a group.
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