1. The Job Interview

2. Contents
Before an interview
During an interview
After an interview

3. Learning Outcomes Describe the purpose of an interview
Describe the application process
List at least 3 key things to prepare for an interview
List 1 thing you should & shouldn’t do in an interview

4. What is the purpose of an interview?
To find out more out you
To see if you are suitable for the job
To meet you face to face
For you to ask questions

5. The application process…
Employer posts job advert
Candidates apply for job before closing date
Employer filters applications
Invites candidates for interview
Interviews candidates
Appoints successful candidate

6. Q. On average, how many people apply for a job?
A) 50 B) 100 C) 200

7. Q. On average, how many people apply for a job?
It depends on the job but on average there are over 100 people apply for a job vacancy!

8. Before the interview

9. What 3 things should you always do before an interview?
Prepare!

10. Plan & Prepare Read the job description / person specification
Research the job
Research the company
Plan how you will get there (on time)
Prepare what you will wear
Check your portfolio

11. What is a Portfolio? Your CV Copies of certificates / qualifications
Any references given
Anything else relevant e.g. DBS check

12. Q. Where can we find information about the job/company?
The job description/person specification
Company website
Media
Web directories e.g. Yell, Thompson
Other internet pages

13. Key Information Summary of the job Main duties Hours / days Pay Leave
Job description
Person specification
Summary of the job
Main duties
Hours / days
Pay
Leave
Required experience
Necessary qualifications
Personal traits

14. First impressions…count!
Did you know it only takes 7 seconds for someone to get a first impression of you!
Dress / clothing
Body language / posture
Body odour
What you say & how you say it

15. Your Application / CV
Always read the job description & person specification (if there is one)
Make sure your application meets the key requirements for the job
For example, if they are looking for excellent communication skills, give an example of where you gained these
Proof read – for spelling and grammar

16. How are applications filtered?
Say 100 people apply for a job
Half will be eliminated if they do not meet the job description or person specification
A further group will be eliminated based on spelling, grammar, typos
The employer will then choose a small group to interview

17. Prepare Answers The employer will ask common questions
You need to prepare answers to these
Practice them with someone (or in front of a mirror!)
Think of questions you want to ask them about the job

18. During the interview

19. The interview
Been offered an interview means the employer feels you have what they are looking for and wants to meet you
Ensure you arrive on time (if not earlier) this will help you relax and prepare
Try to remain calm but not over confident
Be polite and friendly
Listen to any questions and take notes – don’t be afraid to ask them to repeat or clarify a question
Ensure you answer the question with good examples

20. Strengths and weaknesses
An interview is your chance to sell your self
Demonstrate you are the best person for the job
Always emphasise your strengths – match them to the job though
Never say anything negative about your self
Try to turn a weakness into a positive

21. After the interview…
Always ask questions about the job or company – it shows you are interested
Re-cap why you feel you are right for the job
Ask when they will reach a decision
If you are unsuccessful, always ask for feedback why.

22. Summary Research the job & company
Read the job description / person specification
Prepare & plan
Practice, practice, practice
Give examples of your key skills and experience