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Interviewing - the refresher
By Anna Whitlam | July 5th, 2009
Earlier in the month, we posted about the importance of making sure you have prepared for your interview well. In particular, we talked about the increase of candidates presenting for interview who have not dealt with their disappointment and anger over their circumstances very well. The bottom line was vent first, then prepare for your interview. Do not vent in the interview.
However, for those who want a refresher on things to think about with the interview, here are some tips which may seem obvious, but curiously we see them overlooked from time-to-time.
- Be on time. Once you have worked out how long it is going to take you to get to your interview, add 30 minutes, just to make sure you have some wriggle room if there are transport issues. This is not the time to over schedule your diary.
- Stay in the moment. Focus on your interviewer, what they are asking, and providing responses. This is not the time to be planning how you will move within the organisation once you have the job.
- Dress appropriately: See our One Good Suit post for thoughts on that. If unsure, it is better to over-dress than under-dress.
- Breathe. Exhale. Slowly. Studies show the relaxation part of breathing comes from the exhaling, not the deep breath in! This will help with nerves (which are natural, normal and expected). Use some of your extra travel time, to focus on breathing and think of your “happy place”.
- Don’t interrupt. Listen thoughtfully, and paraphrase if you think you may not understand the question. “So that I have understood you, you are asking….”
- Think clarity and brevity. Be very careful to respond to the question the interviewer is asking. Practice responding to interview questions in 1-2 minute grabs. You can always expand if asked to.
- Use the STAR model to assist in behavioural questions: Situation, Task, Action & Result.
- Don’t be coy if asked about salary expectations - be clear and transparent and consistent. Changing your salary expectations after you know you are a preferred candidate annoys both the recruiter and the client. It indicates that you may not be dependable.
- Follow up. Ask for feedback and confirm the process. Send a thank you letter.
- Be graceful. Either way, whether you get the job or you don’t. It makes a very good impression.
Have you got a sticky interview situation you would like some advice on? Let us know and we’ll cover it in future posts.