INTERVIEW TECHNIQUES THAT WORK

Preparing for interviews will help to reduce anxiety. Peter Newfield, President of Career Resumes, has developed a list of interview techniques that work. Below is a list of 10 steps to follow as a guide:

1. Be prepared. Being prepared shows your interest level and conscientiousness. It also increases your confidence.
2. Interview companies for the job you want. Pick the job you want and find out about the company that offers those positions.
3. Listening is a valuable interviewing skill. By listening carefully, you communicate respect and can focus on the questions being asked.
4. Keep interviewing. If you do not get your expected job offer, make sure you have plenty of others to go to.
5. Use props during interviews. Show work samples and other documents that display your talents. Have a portfolio available.
6. Try to get the last interviewing time. Ask the person who is setting up the interview for the times that are available. Statistics have shown that the person who is interviewed last has a better chance of being hired.
7. Honesty creates trust. Do not lie about your abilities. If you don’t know how to do something, explain that you are willing or keen to learn.
8. Build common ground. Ask the interviewer about their philosophies on work ethics, abilities, skills, and let them know if you feel the same.
9. Write down questions that you find most difficult to answer in an interview. Practise these by answering them using a tape recorder or video recorder. Listen for ways to answer clearly and confidently. You can also use 3″ × 5″ index cards and write out your questions.
10. Place yourself in the interviewer’s chair. What kinds of questions would you ask? What would you be looking for?
    • Using flash cards and recording devices can be time-consuming, but it will give you the poise, self-assurance, and confidence you need.
    • Don’t sweat the small stuff! Try to be relaxed and comfortable in your interview. It is not the end of the world if you don’t get the job. Think of it as another opportunity to look for something else that may be more suitable.