Interview
Types
Telephone Interview
Telephone interviews may be used by employers in another
part of the country during the preliminary stages of the
selection process. Increasingly, employers are using the
telephone interview on a local basis. Sometimes, in addition
to an on-site interview, the employer conducts phone interviews
as a second screening before inviting you to an on-site
inter-view. Don't underestimate the importance of making
a positive impression during the telephone interview.
Schedule the interview at a time when you can give it
100% of your attention. Take the phone call in a quiet
place. Jot down ahead of time key points you want to make
and questions you want to ask. Keep a copy of your CV
and the job description near the phone. Ask for clarification
of questions being asked, if necessary, and think out
your responses clearly before you answer. Always present
the best of your background and show your enthusiasm for
the position.
On-Site or Second Interview
You made a good impression during your first interview
and appear to be a good "fit" for the job and
the organisation. Now you have received an invitation
for a "second" or "call-back" interview
at the employer's site. Before you go the ideal is to
plan to visit only one company per day. If travelling
out of the area, will the company make reservations for
you (airline, hotel, rental car)? If you are responsible,
consult a travel agency or make your own reservations
and keep receipts. Verify the time, place and who you
should ask for on your arrival. Some medium to large-size
companies will pay your expenses; keep receipts. If you
are visiting two companies on the same trip, be sure to
prorate your expenses so that the companies may share
the cost after your trip. Brush up on company information.
Will you be interviewing for more than one job? What are
the job titles? Jot down questions you may have. Fill
out employer forms and send them in advance as well as
bring copies with you. Bring extra copies of your resume,
transcripts and references.
For your visit you may be provided with a schedule of
the day's interviews including the name, title and area
of responsibility of the persons with whom you will be
talking. Understand how each person relates to the other.
If you are not provided this information, ask for it and
take notes. During the interview you may talk to several
people: your potential supervisor - manager, your potential
co-workers and a human resources representative. You may
be asked many of the same questions throughout the day.
Be enthusiastic, honest and consistent in your answers.
If you participate in any group activities, your ability
to work with people and your "fit" in the organisation
is being evaluated. Ask questions that will demonstrate
your interest and knowledge of the organization. Most
firms hire by consensus. You will need to win the approval
of each person who interviews you. Observe company culture
and management style. How are decisions made? Do they
promote from within? Are they involved in the community?
Observe the work environment. What is the atmosphere/physical
setting like? Do employees seem relaxed and friendly?
Will you be productive here? Some employers require you
to pass one or more tests after the initial interview:
personality or psychological tests. You should direct
any questions you have to the employer. Before you leave
the interview, make sure you know how long it will be
before the employer responds. If the employer does not
respond within that time, you may phone or email the person
who arranged the interview to ask about your status. If
you do receive a verbal offer ask for written confirmation
and tell the firm when you expect to make a decision.
If
someone else is selected remember that "No"
does not always mean "You were a bad candidate,
we do not want you," but may mean "For this
particular position we found another candidate who we
believe is a better match
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