Interview Tips
Prepare thoroughly
Preparation is critical to how well you perform.
Employers are continually amazed at the number of applicants who reveal they do not know the basic facts about the industry, profession, organisation or job.
Know the job
Be clear about the details of the position, especially the selection criteria. Request a position description if one hasn’t been provided, and if possible speak to someone doing similar work.
Know the organisation
Learn specifics about the company, for example key products, services and activities; recent events of impact on the organisation; size; strategic direction.
Employers look for applicants who demonstrate genuine interest in the organisation. Information sources include annual reports, websites, business directories, trade journals and professional associations.
Be clear about what you offer
Have a range of practical examples ready which demonstrate your skills, abilities, personal qualities and experience. For example, you may have been promoted to store manager in your part-time retail job. This demonstrates leadership, interpersonal skills and your ability to accept responsibility.
Anticipate questions
There is no way you can predict exactly what interview questions you will be asked, but preparing answers to likely questions can help clarify points in your own mind. Memorising answers is not the way to go, but anticipating possible questions can help refine and clarify the way you articulate skills, experience and qualities. Think of a range of examples to support your answers. You don’t want to simply tell the panel you have skill X; you want to prove it with concrete examples.
The above article contains edited extracts of RMIT University’s ‘Interviews FACT sheet’ by Michelle Maes, previously available on the CD&E website (www.rmit.edu.au).
For more information on interviews, including sample questions and techniques, visit the ‘career advice’ section of the GO website and talk to your university careers advisor.
