INTERVIEW TECHNIQUES

Ten-point plan to make a good impression

1. Be pleasant and polite to the receptionist or secretary who greets you. It will get you off to a good start.

2. If you are going through a closed door into an office, knock first and then walk in.

3. Don't sit down until you are offered a chair.

4. Don't smoke or chew.

5. Don't slouch, don't fold your arms or fidget. Sit in a re­laxed upright position.

6. Speak up, don't mutter or mumble. Try to act with mod­est confidence.

7. Don't be flippant. Some candidates give jokey answers to cover up nerves. Be sure you are on the same wavelength as the interviewer before you introduce humour into the discus­sion.

8. Show a genuine interest in the work and the firm you have applied to.

9. Analyse what qualities the interviewer is looking for and try to demonstrate how far you match up.

10. Make sure you know the interviewer's surname, and use it if a natural opportunity occurs.

Questions the interviewer may ask you

There are a number of questions you are likely to be asked — so think about what you are going to say. It may help to dis­cuss these with a friend before the interview. Probable ques­tions include:

Tell me about yourself.

Why do you want the job?

What is your experience in the field?

What makes you think you would be good at the job?

What do you do in your spare time?

What qualities do you think you have to offer?

What is your ultimate career ambition?

What kind of books or newspapers do you read?

Questions you may want to ask the interviewer

During the course of the discussion, the interviewer will probably explain most of the details about the job. But there may be gaps and you may want to ask your own question.

Try not to appear too eager; wait until towards the end of the interview. He or she may then ask if there is anything you would like to know — and that's your chance to be offered the job, then you will need all the facts to enable you to make the right decision as to whether or not you will accept There are some of the points you may want to raise:

What are the normal hours of work?

Are there any unusual hours?

Will I be paid overtime?

What is the pay?

What holidays will I be entitled to?

Who will I be directly responsible to?

What training will I be given?

When may I expect a decision?

When would I be expected to start?

Whatever you do don't sound as if you are only interested in what you get out of the job. Remember the interviewer is looking for someone who is going to put a lot into the

job — ability, industry and enthusiasm.

ADDITIONAL EXERCISES¹

COMPOSITION SUBJECTS