Put some thought into it…
One of the most important things you can do before your interview is to really think through the position and what you have to offer the organisation. You should be ready to cover off your short and long term career goals as well as any future development path you see for yourself.
Been missing in action?
There are many reasons why people have gaps in their employment history. Even if you worked as a temp, it is always advisable to know where, when and what you did during the assignment as the company may seek a referee for this period of time. You may have traveled, worked overseas, been unwell or caring for family members and may need to discuss these things if asked.
So...why did you leave?
Be prepared to discuss the reasons you resigned from your previous positions. ie: Temp assignment was finalized or the project was completed. If your reason for leaving included the offer of a better opportunity, explain what the opportunity was. If your leaving was involuntarily, present the experience in the most positive, diplomatic way possible. It is never advisable to speak negatively about former employers.
What’s this job all about?
Before attending any interview it is a good idea to research the organisation and familiarise yourself with the following:
- Size of organisation, number of employees and current workloads or projects.
- History, how long they have they been operating – do they have any affiliated organisations or belong to a larger group of companies?
- General information about their services/products/aims etc.
- Who their major competitors are and who the other organisations are operating in the same field.
- Job description – understand the skills and qualifications required for the position and be prepared to discuss how well you are suited.
- Relationship between the open position and other members of staff as well as where the vacancy sits in relation to company structure and who it reports to.
- Have some well thought-out questions that would help further your understanding of the organisation.
If you have attended the interview via an agency referral, your consultant will also ask for some feedback on how you thought the interview went and whether you would accept the job if it were to be offered to you.
Am I ‘The One’?
Employers interview candidates to confirm whether the applicant has the required knowledge, skills and willingness to contribute and fit into the organisational culture. Your career goals will also be assessed to ensure that they are in line with future development opportunities or new projects available within their organisation. Employers are looking for the potential in prospective employees to become long term, valued, trusted and productive team members.
You may consider how to display your skills and experience in the right light and to provide employers with the evidence that you are the right person for the job. Here are some brief points to consider:
- Are you a self-starter, motivated and able to work without constant supervision?
- Can you be depended upon to follow tasks and projects through to completion?
- Are you enthusiastic, easy to work with and can you work well under pressure?
- Employers want to know what intrigues you about the job and why you want to work for the organisation.
- How do you plan your daily and weekly schedule?
- How did you respond to sudden issues in the workplace?
- Do you handle constructive criticism productively?
- Most positions involve working with other staff members, so being able to work as part of a team is extremely valuable. Co-operation and ability to work well in a team environment are important skills.
