A Job Interview

1.  A job interview is a formal consultation for evaluating the qualifications of the interviewee for a specific
position.
2. A job interview is an interview consisting of a conversation between a job applicant and a
representative of an employer which is conducted to assess whether the applicant should be hired.
3. A job interview typically precedes the hiring decision. The interview is usually preceded by the
evaluation of submitted résumés from interested candidates, possibly by examining job applications or
reading many resumes. Next, after this screening, a small number of candidates for interviews is
selected.
Interviews are one of the most popularly used devices for employee selection. Interviews vary in the extent to
which the questions are structured, from a totally unstructured and free-wheeling conversation, to a structured
interview in which an applicant is asked a predetermined list of questions in a specified order;  structured
interviews are usually more accurate predictors of which applicants will make suitable employees, according to
research studies.[2]
A job offer is also a potentially life-altering event that needs careful deliberation. Job interviews
provide an opportunity for you and your potential employer to decide how well your skills align with
the company’s needs. Job interviews allow you to get better acquainted with prospective colleagues
and obtain information to help you decide if that job is the right one for you.
A few lines in a job advertisement tell you little about the day-to-day realities of a position. Prepare
strategic questions before the interview that will help you learn more about the company and what
exactly will be required of you. Think of situations you can reference where you demonstrated the
skills required of the position. The interviewer may ask you to share examples of your leadership
style, such as a time you resolved a heated conflict between team members.
During a job interview, a hiring manager asks most of the questions. But it's also acceptable
and advantageous for the interviewee to ask a few important questions. Asking questions
sends a positive signal to the employer, letting her know that you're seriously interested in
the position. To encourage communication, ask open-ended questions -- those that don't
require a mere "yes" or "no" answer -- which lead to elaboration and detail. The added
information might help you make a final decision about the job.

Types of Job Interviews

There are many types of interviews that organizations can conduct. What is the same
across all interview types, however, is the idea of interview structure. How much an
interview is structured, or developed and conducted the same way across all
applicants, depends on the number of certain elements included in that interview.
Unstructured Interviews
Unstructured interviews allow interviewers to do so more freely. Some researchers
suggest, however, that unstructured interviews are actually highly unreliable, or
inconsistent between interviews. That means that two interviewers who conduct an
interview with the same person may not agree and see the candidate the same way
even if they were in the same interview with that applicant. Often interviewers who
conduct unstructured interviews fail to identify the high-quality candidates for the
job. See the section on interview structure issues for a more in-depth discussion. The
unstructured interview, or one that does not include a good number of standardization
elements, is the most common form of interview today. Unstructured interviews are
typically seen as free-flowing; the interviewer can swap out or change questions as
he/she feels is best, and different interviewers may not rate or score applicant
responses in the same way. There are also no directions put in place regarding how
the interviewer and the interviewee should interact before, during, or after the
interview. Unstructured interviews essentially allow the interviewer to conduct the
interview however he or she thinks is best.

Structured Interviews
Interview structure is the degree to which interviews are identical and conducted the
same across applicants. Also known as guided, systematic, or patterned interviews,
structured interviews aim to make both the content (the information addressed as well
as the administration of the interaction) and the evaluation (how the applicant is
scored) the same no matter what applicant is being interviewed. Specifically,
researchers commonly address 15 elements that can be used to make the interview's
content and evaluation process similar. An interview's degree of structure is often
thought of as the extent to which these elements are included when conducting
interviews. (A specific structure regarding contents and evaluation is followed in
structured interviews

Some common types of questions for job interviews

Regardless of interview structure, there are several types of questions interviewers ask
applicants. Two major types that are used frequently and that have extensive
empirical support are situational questions and behavioral questions
Situational interview questions
Situational interview questions ask job applicants to imagine a set of circumstances
and then indicate how they would respond in that situation; hence, the questions are
future oriented.

Behavioral interview questions

Behavioral (experience-based or patterned behavioral) interviews are past-oriented in
that they ask respondents to relate what they did in past jobs or life situations that are
relevant to the particular job relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities required for
success. The idea is that past behavior is the best predictor of future performance in
similar situations. By asking questions about how job applicants have handled
situations in the past that are similar to those they will face on the job, employers can
gauge how they might perform in future situations.

Other types of questions

Other possible types of questions that may be asked alongside structured interview
questions or in a separate interview include: background questions, job knowledge
questions, and puzzle type questions.

 Background questions include a focus on work experience, education, and other

qualifications. For instance, an interviewer may ask "What experience have you
had with direct sales phone calls?" Interviews composed primarily of these types
of questions are often labeled "conventional interviews".
 Job knowledge questions may ask candidates to describe or demonstrate
knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) relevant to the job. These are typically
highly specific questions. For example, one question may be "What steps would
you take to conduct a manager training session on safety?"
 The puzzle interview was popularized by Microsoft in the 1990s, and is now used
in other organizations. The most common types of questions either ask the
applicant to solve puzzles or brain teasers (e.g., "Why are manhole covers
round?") or to solve unusual problems (e.g., "How would you weigh an airplane
without a scale?").
Specific ways to prepare for a job interview

Here are some key things to get sorted when you're preparing for a job interview:
1. Know where you’re going.
This one might sound obvious, but many people leave home without the address or their
contact’s name. Write down the address and the name of the person you're meeting (and their
phone number if you have it), or put it in your phone. Look up the address on a map in
advance so you know exactly how to get there. Make sure you check the timetables if you’re
getting there on public transport.
2. Don’t be late!
Give yourself plenty of time to get there so you’re not flustered and sweating. Aim t arrive at
the interview at least 15 minutes early.
3. Dress to impress.
Even if you’re going for a job where you’ll have to wear a uniform or overalls and get down
and dirty, make sure you’re wearing clean and ironed clothes. That way you will appear
committed and professional.
4. Sniff the pits!
Make sure you’re showered and deodorized and smelling pleasant and your hair is clean and
tame. Don't use too much perfume or aftershave though!
5. Bring your resume.
Take a copy of your resume with you and refer to it during the interview if you need to. Read
over it on the way, or while you're waiting for the interview to start.
6. Do your research.
It's important to know the company and know what the job requires. If you can, visit their
website and see what they have to say about themselves. Do a search for them online to see if
they’ve been in the news. If you can, try to find other people who work for the company so
you can ask them some questions.
7. Prepare your answers.
You should prepare some answers to the questions you're expecting. You should also prepare
some questions to ask them yourself. Some common questions you could prepare answers for
are on the next page.
8. Checklist
• Confirm time, date and location of the interview and name of interviewee where
appropriate.
• Get there no earlier than half an hour before the interview time.
• Dress professional.
• Ensure the receptionist knows you are there.
9. Look in the Eyes
• Eye contact shows confidence and is one of the most important aspects of nonverbal
communication, it can make a significant difference to how the first impression the
prospective employer has of you.

Common job interview questions

Here are some common interview questions and some quick tips for ways you could
answer them.
1. Tell us about yourself.
Talk about school and work - don’t talk about your personal life. Be brief - try to speak for no
more than two minutes. Use this as an opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills.
2. What do you think this position involves?
You can only properly answer this if you’ve researched the company and the job. Pay
attention to what they say about the job and the company, then try putting it into your own
words.
3. Why do you want this job?
Show that you know about the company and prove you’ve done your homework. Tell them
why you’re the right person for the job. Don’t sound like you’re desperate!
4. What are your strengths?
Know at least five things you’re good at. Make your strengths relevant to the job. Keep your
answers short.
5. What are your weaknesses?
Turn a negative into a positive.
Talk about what you’re doing to overcome your weaknesses.
Make it relevant to the job.
6. Tell us about a time when things went wrong and what you did to fix it.
Prepare two or three examples in advance.
Make your examples relevant to the job.
Show that you have initiative.
7. How do you deal with conflict in the workplace?
This question tests your ‘people’ skills.
Conflict could be a conflict of opinion or ideas.
Conflict could also be a personality clash.
Not all conflict is negative - it can inspire creative solutions to problems.
Demonstrate your ability to resolve issues.
8. Give us an example of how you have worked as part of a team.
Prepare an example that demonstrates how you fit into a team - you could either be the leader
or the one who's good at following orders.
If you don’t have paid work experience, talk about work experience you’ve done for school,
volunteering, school projects, sport or a hobby group you belong to.
9. What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?
You don't have to have done something earth-shattering - small things done well can be just
as impressive.
Think of something you've done at school or work that you're proud of or happy with. If
you're just starting out in work you could talk about what you hope to accomplish in the
future.
Be honest - don't make anything up!
10. What are your goals? Where do you see yourself in five years?
Talk about work or study - don’t talk about your personal goals.
Try to connect your goals to the company and the job.
11. When can you start and what’s your availability?
It's important to know the answer to this one before you come to the interview.
Do you have to give notice to your current employer? Check your contract or agreement.
Do you want to take a break between jobs for some rest and recreation?
Are there any days or times you’re not available?
Try to be flexible.
12. What are your salary expectations?
Check out awards and minimum wages before the interview
Don’t negotiate a final figure for your salary or wages in a job interview - wait until they offer
you the job.
13. Any questions for us?
It’s OK to ask the interviewer about the salary range during the interview.
Try to ask specific questions about the company and the role
During the interview
 You must communicate your most relevant skills and experiences.
 Don’t be too aggressive and jump right into the interview trying to get the
interviewer to share/reveal this information. You are the interviewee not the
interviewer, let him set the pace of the interview.
 Relax and answer his questions.
 Always use examples to support your answers/response.
 Scholarship Interviews

Many of the large, more specific and prestigious scholarships will require an
interview before any awards are given. In addition to a detailed application, an
impressive essay and letters of recommendation, the scholarship board will want a
chance to meet with you personally to assess your character and personality.
Application judges want to determine that the application fits the applicant, and that
you are a prime candidate for the scholarship that is being awarded. These interviews
are conducted for academic, merit-based scholarships in which a substantial amount
of money hangs in the balance.

Preparing for these interviews can be stressful. Students unused to the interview
process may find the prospect daunting, but there are some basic tips and skill sets
that will help you prepare for a successful meeting with the scholarship review board

PRACTICE FOR SCHOLARSHIP INTERVIEWS

Practice interviews are a good way to hone your skills before you face the scholarship
review board itself. Have a family member, friend or trusted teacher walk you through
a mock interview, asking the type of questions you will be given during the actual
interview process. Some of the common topics you will be asked to address in your
scholarship interview include:

1. What is your biggest academic achievement?

2. What extracurricular activities do you take part in?
3. What large obstacles have you overcome, and how?
4. What are some awards that you have won?
5. What are your professional goals following graduation?
6. How do you see yourself using your degree?

Be On Time

This can not be stressed enough. The review boards first impression of any applicant
can color any subsequent interview. Being late to the interview only shows a lack of
respect for the interviewer, and a lack of interest in the scholarship being offered.
Allow plenty of extra time to arrive at your interview, and try to be a few minutes
early. Professionalism is the key.

Be Conscious of Your Behavior

Interviews of any kind can be nerve wracking, but it is important to appear calm and
self possessed while speaking with the review board. Try not to fidget or appear
nervous. Sitting still, making eye contact and maintaining good posture gives you the
appearance of a calm, collected and professional student. Be confident in your
answers, avoid sounding indecisive and speak clearly and to the point when
answering the questions that are put to you.

Dress Appropriately

First impressions are important, and as the saying goes “you don't get a second
chance”. Dress presentably for all of your interviews. While it is not necessary to
dress formally, semi-formal attire is appropriate for all scholarship and college board
interviews. Men should consider slacks and a dress shirt, or even a suit and tie, and
should be well groomed and professional looking. Female students may want to opt
for a dress or business style suit when attending their interviews. The important thing
here is to appear professional, able and earnest.

Know Yourself

Beyond being aware of your posture and your appearance, be conscious of what you
say. Be clear and concise in your answers to the interviewer, and avoid wavering from
the point. A rambling interviewee may seem charming, but he or she does not impress
the review board. Stay focused, and keep your answers pertinent and on topic.

If you find yourself without a satisfactory answer to a question, don't try to bluff your
way through. Ask for clarification, or simply be honest and say you do not know.
Interviewers prefer and honest interviewee who is aware of their own knowledge over
someone who attempts to bluff or deceive. Above all be cordial, attentive and answer
the questions clearly and concisely.
 Ask a Few Questions

Don't be afraid to ask questions during the interview process. Inquire about the
company sponsoring the scholarship, or ask about particulars regarding the
scholarship itself. Being able to engage the interviewer with questions of your own
shows that you are prepared and comfortable, and highlights your interest in the
award and in your ultimate college career.

Some Common Questions for Scholarship

I. Tell us about yourself.
II. What is your greatest strength/weakness?
III. Why do you deserve this scholarship?
IV. What are your career goals?
V. Who has been a role model for you?
VI. Tell me about a mistake you made.
VII. Why did you choose this Institution?
VIII. What activities are you involved in?
IX. Tell me about a personal achievement that makes you proud.

Internship
 An internship is a period of work experience offered by an organization for a
limited period of time.

 An internship is an opportunity to integrate career related experience into an

undergraduate education by participating in planned, supervised work.

 The position of a student or trainee who works in an organization, sometimes

without pay, in order to gain work experience or satisfy requirements for a
qualification.

So, by definition, an internship is an opportunity for a student or trainee to gain

valuable career experience by working within an organization, either for pay or for
educational credit…but they’re so much more than just that! Internships are an
excellent way for you to gain real word experience, network with potential future
coworkers and managers, and are an excellent way for you to build your resume
and ultimately help lay the groundwork you’ll need to build the future of your
own career. On top of that, many hiring managers use internships as a great way to
gauge employment potential. This means you want to make sure that you are ready to
nail that internship interview process, score that invaluable experience, and lay the
foundation for your chosen career!

Characteristics of internships:
• contributes to the student’s personal and professional development through
challenging work assignments
• is completed before the student graduates from the university although in
some cases internships can be completed the summer between the student
completing the undergraduate degree and before beginning a graduate degree
program
• is planned and scheduled through consultation with the department or college
so as to fit into the undergraduate experience
• involves a supervision component that is mentoring and educational
• includes career related experiences that complement what is learned in the
classroom
• will have a reflection and evaluation process at the conclusion of the
internship
• builds upon the relationship the department/college/university has with
employers
• is most successful when the student, the department/college, and the
employer all share responsibility in making it a valuable experience
 Interview tips for internship
1. STUDY GUIDE
As a student (or a recent student) this should be the easiest part of the whole process. Pretend
your internship interview is a test (which, let’s be honest, it pretty much is.) The best way to
hit a home run with a test is to study ahead of time and the same holds true for an interview. That
means making sure you have a proper resume prepared that highlights your related skills and
education, as well as your accomplishments.
2. ACOMPLISH YOUR CONFINENCE
Make sure you’re ready to make a solid first impression by having business appropriate interview
clothes ready to go, showing up early to your interview, and by being an enthusiastic participant in
the interview process.

3.- REHEARSE: This is perhaps the most important part preparations of internship

interviews! The best way to burn through interview nerves is to practice before the actual big day.

4.- RELAX: Make sure you’re paying attention during the interview. Interviews can be nerve
wracking and sometimes stress can make it hard to listen to those around us, even with rehearsal
and mock interviews ahead of time.

5.- RHYTHM: When we say rhythm we’re not talking about music or dancing, but about the
natural rhythm of conversation. Make sure when you’re giving your answers to the interview
questions that you’re speaking clearly and calmly.

Some Common Questions of Internship Interviews

1. Why are you applying for this internship?
2. What do you hope to get out of this internship?
3. What are your long-term goals?
4. Why should we consider you for this internship?
5. Why are manhole covers round and not square or some other shape?

Some other basic questions may be as follow:-

1. Have you ever interned before? If so, describe your experiences.
2. Why should we consider you for this internship?
3. What qualities will you bring to this internship that other candidates might not?
4. What are your expectations for your work hours? Is your schedule flexible?
5. What do you know about our company?
6. What are your expectations for the role we are discussing today?
7. Do your current studies align with the type of work we do? Do you see a future
in this industry, and if so, in what role?
8. How do you organize your time and prioritize tasks during a busy day?

RESEARCH INTERVIEW
An interview in qualitative research is a conversation where questions are asked to
elicit information. The interviewer is usually a professional or paid researcher,
sometimes trained, who poses questions to the interviewee, in an alternating series of
usually brief questions and answers. They can be contrasted with focus groups in
which an interviewer questions a group of people and observes the resulting
conversation between interviewees, or surveys which are more anonymous and limit
respondents to a range of predetermined answer choices. In addition, there are special
considerations when interviewing children. In phenomenological or ethnographic
research, interviews are used to uncover the meanings of central themes in the life
world of the subjects from their own point of view.

Characteristics of qualitative research interviews

 Interviews are completed by the interviewer based on what the interviewee says to
be conformed and done.
 Interviews are a far more personal form of research than questionnaires.
 In the personal interview, the interviewer works directly with the interviewee.
 Unlike with mail surveys, the interviewer has the opportunity to probe or ask
follow up questions.
 Interviews are generally easier for the interviewee, especially if what is sought are
opinions and/or impressions.
 Interviews are time-consuming and resource-intensive.
 The interviewer is considered a part of the measurement instrument and has to be
well trained in how to respond to any contingency.
 Interviews provide an opportunity of face to face interaction between 2 persons;
hence, they reduce conflicts.