Scribd
Upload
10 views2 pages

doc-top-tips-for-job-interviews

The document provides essential tips for job interviews, emphasizing the importance of preparation, practice, and understanding job competencies. It suggests using the STAR technique to frame answers based on real experiences and encourages candidates to ask their own questions during the interview. Additionally, it highlights the significance of professional appearance and maintaining good communication throughout the interview process.

Uploaded by

Eva Smith
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
10 views2 pages

doc-top-tips-for-job-interviews

The document provides essential tips for job interviews, emphasizing the importance of preparation, practice, and understanding job competencies. It suggests using the STAR technique to frame answers based on real experiences and encourages candidates to ask their own questions during the interview. Additionally, it highlights the significance of professional appearance and maintaining good communication throughout the interview process.

Uploaded by

Eva Smith
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

Top tips for job interviews

Be prepared for a successful job search

Prepare
You should make sure you have a good understanding of the company and the position
you are applying for. It is also important to know what your strengths are as your
interviewer is likely to ask, so think of these in advance. Take time to consider how best
to describe and promote your professional knowledge, skills and experience. Arrive ten
to fifteen minutes early. Remember to take an extra copy of your CV.

Practice
You can improve your interview technique by talking with trusted friends and family. This
particularly important if you have not been through the interview process for some time.
Practice your delivery of statements about yourself that are truthful, concise and direct.

Address the job description and competencies


Competency based interviews are used to make the process as standard and fair as
possible. The premise is that your past performance is the best predictor of future
performance.
The word ‘competency’ refers to the skills necessary to achieve an effective performance
level in the job. Most jobs will have a set of key competencies, some are essential,
others desirable, required to do the job properly. Many employers list competencies as
part of the 'person specification' within the job description or application information.

Examples of questions
An example of competencies include:
• Communication skills
• Delivering results
• Interpersonal / customer focused skills
The interviewer could ask questions relating to each competency. These usually start
with phrases such as:
• Tell me about a time when you…
• Describe a time when you…
• Give me an example when you…
The interviewer is looking for specific information about an event, task or project and, in
particular, your involvement.

For more advice


www.rtpi.org.uk/careers
Base your answers on real experience
Prepare answers relating to achievements on your CV or application form. A useful
technique to help frame your answers is called STAR:
S= Describe the SITUATION
T= Talk through the TASK that evolved
A= Talk about ACTIONS you took
R= Describe the RESULT- use figures/data to illustrate

Impress with your responses


Try to remain calm and always be truthful. Ask for clarification if you’re not sure what is
been asked and remember it is acceptable to pause to think about your answer.
Don’ t criticise former employers. Instead, explain you had a difference of opinion in work
philosophies or styles. Don’ t dwell on employers where things did not go well for you
and keep your answer short.
End the interview with a thank you to the interviewer and reiterate your interest in the
position.

Ask your own questions


Prepare questions you want to ask the interviewer. You are not simply trying to get the
job you are also interviewing the employer to assess whether this company and position
match your expectations.

Other points to remember


• Dress appropriately – it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed
• Wear shoes that are clean and well polished
• Don’t overdo perfume, makeup or after shave and limit your jewellery
• Maintain eye contact with interviewers when talking
• Switch off your mobile phone
• If you are unsuccessful, contact the employer and ask for feedback.

Prepare answers
relating to your CV,
using the STAR
technique
Practice answers with
family and friends For more advice
[email protected]

You might also like