Interview Question Tips

Back

Security

Listen to the questions in full, so you can give an appropriate answer.
Take the time to think before answering a question; this will help you organise your thoughts and answer questions simply and clearly, giving you confidence.
It’s important to remember before each answer that your answers to interview questions should demonstrate how you can be of value to the employer.
Have 5 or 6 key points prepared about why you are the right person for the job.
Ensure your answers are relevant and neither too long and rambling or too brief.
When giving your response to a question, leave space for the interviewer to ask more.
Saying ‘I’ a lot is recommended, it demonstrates that your answers relate to your personal involvement and achievements as opposed to your team’s.
Ask for clarification if you don’t understand the question or why it is being asked.
If you misinterpret a question or get your answer mixed up and say something that you did not mean to say, make sure to restate what you actually meant to say. It may be your only chance to get the point across.
If you can’t answer a question, tell the interviewer or ask to come back to it at a later stage; don’t lie or ramble.
If there is something wrong that is disturbing your concentration e.g. you are seated in an unsteady chair or there is a glare from the sun, let the interviewers know.
Honesty is the best policy. Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses and make the point that you are striving to improve your weaknesses.

This is one of the most common questions asked in an interview and it’s helpful to have a question prepared. Here are some examples:

Ask about the other people in the department and how their roles impact on yours.
Ask for clarity on the core responsibilities of the role.
Enquire about induction and training.
Query whether the role may involve one-off projects in addition to day-to-day responsibilities.
Ask if the job will involve dealing with clients, suppliers or other departments or offices.