1. Life Orientation – Grade 11
Interview Skills
Life Orientation – Grade 11

2. Purpose of an Interview
To see if you match the job requirements
Assess personal qualities
How well you express yourself
Your motivation and enthusiasm
Whether or not YOU feel the job suits you

3. Preparation Do research
Remember why you are interested in the job – be enthusiastic!
Try to anticipate possible questions and form model answers
Prepare questions to ask the interviewer
Practice with a friend
Dress neatly (dress code depends on the nature of the job)
Know how you will get there (being late is considered inexcusable, no matter the circumstances)
If necessary, employ calming techniques (slow breathing, read while waiting)

4. Structured/Competency-Based Interview Unstructured Interview
Types of Interviews
Structured/Competency-Based Interview
Pre-determined questions
Standardised (all applicants are given the same opportunity to answer the same questions)
Specific qualities are looked for
No opportunity for conversation
Unstructured Interview
A conversation with a purpose
Direction of the interview depends on the applicant
Answers to questions are meant to be explorative
Interviews tend to challenge answers in order to stimulate debate

5. The Interview

6. First Impression
Generally, it takes only 7 MINUTES for an interviewer to decide if a candidate is right for the job Do
Maintain eye-contact
Stand up straight
Smile!
Speak clearly
Praise the company
Be polite
Don’t
Eat right before or during
Check your phone
Take a friend to the interview with you
Criticize the company
Make excuses for past mistakes – take responsibility
Do not address the interviewer by his/her first name

7. Hypothetical Questions
Questions and Answers
Typical Questions
Tell me about yourself
Why did you choose this company?
How would the experiences you describe be useful in this company?
What are your main strengths and weaknesses?
Where do you see yourself in five years time?
Tell me about your vacation work/involvement with student societies/sporting activities
Hypothetical Questions
How would you deal with an angry customer?
How would you deal with a staff member caught stealing?
Your manager is ill and leaves you in charge. Many employees complain about the way the manager does things. How do you handle the situation?

8. Questions You Can Ask General Rules
Keep them brief – consider other candidates waiting to be interviewed
Ask about the job, not the benefits
You do not have to wait until the end to ask your questions – ask when the question is suitable
Examples
How will you judge my success?
Do you have any concerns about my being successful in this position?
Who held this position previously? Why is he/she leaving?
What types of training opportunities do you offer?
Is there a possibility for promotion in the future?

9. Sought-After Skills Good interpersonal skills Ability to sell yourself
Ability to work in a team
Organisation
Motivation
Initiative