Careers: interview preparation

Transcription

1 Careers: interview preparation For Professional Staff Professional Development Unit October 2017

2 Session series 1. Careers: resume writing 2. Careers: job applications 3. Careers: interview preparation Date

3 Learning outcomes By the end of this session you will be able to: Describe the purpose of a job interview Make a good first impression Interpret interview questions to determine their intent Develop relevant responses to interview questions End the interview well

4 Session overview Information and theory Job interviews Before During After Practice opportunities Practice questions Discuss with others Seek feedback As questions BREAK

5 Selection process Position advertised Submit application Resume Cover Letter Response to Position Description Candidates shortlisted for interview Referees contacted Appointability determined

6 Purpose of interviews For the employer For the applicant Can they do the job? Do they want the job? Will they fit the culture? What does the job look like? Do I want the job? Is the culture right for me?

7 Types of interviews There are a range of interview types: Panel One to one (formal / informal) Presentation Group Phone / videoconference Robo interview Other?

8 Stages of the interview Before Instructions Location Research Presentation Practice During First impressions Non verbals Listen Think Respond Questions Follow up Referees Waiting After

9 Who am I? What is your story? How have you arrived at this point? What skills and knowledge have you gained? What have been your key achievements? Why you?

10 Activity Imagine you are attending an interview Think about the position itself Refer to the Position Description Note down how will you respond Tell us a little bit about yourself.

11 Practice In pairs, take turns to interview each other. Ask the question Tell us a little about yourself. Listen to the response Take notes then repeat back Give constructive feedback o o What worked well? What could be added?

12 Stages of the interview Before Instructions Location Research Presentation Practice During First impressions Non verbals Listen, pause, think Respond Ending well Follow up Referees Waiting After

13 First impressions Ensure you are on time Dress appropriately Reconsider that cigarette / curry / onion and anchovy salad Only bring essentials Turn your phone off Ensure documents are neat and tidy Offer a good handshake Make eye contact Smile

14 Non verbals Your body language is critical to how you communicate Walk confidently Sit up straight, lean in slightly Avoid crossing your arms Avoid crossing your legs Show your palms Make eye contact Avoid fidgeting

15 Listen, Pause, Think Listen Pause Think Jot down key words What are they looking for Choose example Ask to repeat question Consider your options Shape response

16 Types of questions General Tell us a little bit about yourself. Listen, Pause, Think Keep it brief Align response with Position Description Professional not personal Why are you the perfect candidate What skills, qualities and experience would you bring to this role?

17 Types of questions Situational or Hypothetical What would you do if Listen, Pause, Think a work colleague has told you in confidence that he suspects your boss of fraud? Ask clarifying questions Describe how you would Gather more information Assess your options Choose appropriate response

18 Types of questions Philosophical or Values Listen, Pause, Think There is no right answer Be honest Align with Position Description Consider using an example What does Social Justice mean to you?

19 Types of questions Topical or Issues Driven Listen, Pause, Think There is no right answer Be honest Align with Position Description Consider using an example

20 Types of questions Behavioural Tell us about a time when Listen, Pause, Think Choose a strong example Align with Position Description Use the STAR model

21 Ending well What do you see as the biggest challenge of the position? Do you have any questions? Do your research Prepare 2 3 questions in advance Align with Position Description Avoid what s in it for me questions As you leave Thank the panel for their time Remind them why you re the perfect fit Is there anything else I can tell you about myself to help with your decision?

22 Stages of the interview Before Instructions Location Research Presentation Practice During First impressions Non verbals Listen, pause, think Respond Ending well Follow up Referees Waiting After

23 Follow up (appropriate for external applications) Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the position of Prime your referees Advise you have reached interview stage Provide copies of your application documents Be patient Don t make further contact with the panel

24 Questions?

25 Learning outcomes You are now able to: Describe the purpose of a job interview Make a good first impression Interpret interview questions to determine their intent Develop relevant responses to interview questions End the interview well

26 Close Any final questions? Thank you for your participation Good luck!

27 Practice opportunity In small groups: Take turns to panel interview candidate Panel provides constructive feedback Repeat for each group member