The Interview
You are being interviewed because the interviewer wants to fill a vacancy. Through the interaction which will take place, the interviewer will be assessing your skills and experience. In addition, the interviewer may closely question you on your past experiences to determine particular competencies or skills. 'Dos' and 'Don'ts' concerning the interview:
- DO plan to arrive on time or a few minutes early. Late arrival for a job interview is never excusable.
- If presented with an application, DO fill it out neatly and completely. If you have a personal resume, be sure the person to whom you release it is the person who will actually do the hiring.
- DO greet the interviewer by their name. Ensure that you know the correct pronunciation.
- DO shake hands firmly.
- DO wait until you are offered a chair before sitting. Sit upright in your chair, look alert and interested at all times. Be a good listener as well as a good talker. SMILE.
- DO look a prospective employer in the eye when you converse.
- DO follow the interviewer's leads but try to obtain a full description of the position and duties expected early so that you can relay your appropriate background and skills.
- DO make sure that your good points get across to the interviewer in a factual, sincere manner. Keep in mind that only you can sell yourself and make the interviewer aware of the potential benefits that you can offer to the organisation.
- DO always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job you are discussing. Never close the door on an opportunity. It is better to be in the position where you can choose from a number of jobs, rather than only one.
- DON'T smoke, even if the interviewer smokes and offers you a cigarette.
- DON'T answer questions with a simple 'yes' or 'no'. Explain whenever possible. Describe those things about yourself which relate to the position.
- DON'T LIE. Answer questions truthfully, frankly and as much to the point as possible.
- DON'T make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers.
- DON'T 'over-answer' questions. The interviewer may steer the conversation into politics or economics. These topics can be controversial; it is best to answer the questions honestly, trying not to say more than is necessary.
- DON'T enquire about SALARY, HOLIDAYS, BONUSES, etc at the initial interview unless you are positive the interviewer is interested in hiring you. However, you should know your market value and be prepared to specify your required salary or range.
