Interview Preparation - Suggested List of Things PDF

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Module 1: The recruitment and selection phase 1. Understanding the recruitment process In order to be offered a position, you typically need to follow a recruitment and selection process outlined by the employer. You may need to participate in a number of recruitment phases before a job offer is made. Employers can use a range of different phases, activities and processes but an interview is to be expected. Click through the nine phases below to understand common recruitment and selection processes you may encounter when preparing and interviewing for a future job position.

1. Preparation and submission of application - Take the time to prepare a strong application to increase your chances of proceeding through to the next round of recruitment screening. 2. Video pitches - Creating a video pitch or answering predetermined questions via video recording is another popular way in which employers screen candidates. It is important to treat this form of recruitment practice as you would an interview, so be prepared, dress appropriately and ensure you have the right technological set-up prior to commencing the recording. 3. Phone screening - For an employer, calling a candidate on the phone is an easy way to ask some further questions to ascertain whether they would like to meet you face to face or proceed through to an interview. Talking to an employer on the phone can present challenges as you will be unable to read or use non-verbal communication. Therefore, it is particularly important to communicate in a clear and concise manner. 4. Online psychometric testing - Psychometric testing (often conducted online) is a tool used by employers to assess a candidate's aptitude against a varying list of expected capabilities. To find out more about psychometric testing proceed through to module 3 to review tips and practice some examples for yourself. 5. Assessment centres / Group exercises - Assessment centres and group exercises are a very common method for graduate recruitment in assessing a large number of candidates in a day-

long activity driven environment. You will often be assessed against a list of criteria focusing on your interpersonal, team work, communication and problem solving skills. Explore Module 4 for further information on how to excel in an assessment centre or group exercise. 6. Interviews - Interviews are a crucial part of any recruitment and selection process and can come in many forms such as Skype /Google Hangout, case studies, panel interviews and presentations. How you present yourself in an interview is often the deciding factor as to whether you will be offered a position. Module 2 provides an in-depth array of resources to assist you with performing at your best in any interview scenario. 7. Reference checks - Referees that are provided either within your application or at the interview are typically contacted prior to an offer being made. Ensure you have asked your referees (2-3 professional referees are recommended) whether they are happy to be contacted and provide evidence of your work history. 8. Negotiation of offer - If you are the successful candidate then an employer will offer you the role either via a phone call or email. Before you accept the offer, it is important that you understand and interpret the terms of employment. Module 5 will provide some key tips to consider when negotiating an offer. 9. Job offer acceptance - Once you have verbally accepted the job offer, the employer will draw up a contract for you to sign. They will relay relevant information prior to your start date (e.g. induction). Module 2: Before the interview 1. Before the interview Congratulations on successfully making it through to an interview! Regardless of the outcome, this is an accomplishment that you should be proud of. It is, however, important to think about how you can best prepare for an interview. Here are

some points that need to be considered in your preparation: 1/ Review Review the position description and become familiar with the duties, requirements and key selection criteria. Interview questions are most likely to be based around these areas outlined in the job advertisement or position description. 2/ Research Research the organisation. Who they are and what they do? Exploring the organisation’s website is a good place to start to capture their values, vision and mission statements and current or future projects. Being proactive and researching issues affecting the organisation and the sector, in general, shows your commercial awareness and interest in industry trends. 3/ Practice Anticipate the questions and practice responses. You can start to feel more confident by practising some of your answers out loud. Get friends and family members to ask you potential questions that you think might be in the interview (refer to the position description or job advertisement). However, keep in mind that you will never be 100% prepared for an interview. There may be some questions from an employer designed to put you on the spot, so go in with an open mind and know that an employer wants to get to know who you are as a person not what you can recite. 4/ Referees Make sure that you have contacted your referees prior to attending an interview. They should be willing and ready to accept a call or email from the employer. You should come prepared with a list of your referees contact details if you have not already provided this information in your application. Finally, remember an interview is a two-way process. The employer is interviewing you, but you are also finding out about your potential employer and if the role is a good fit for you! 2. Video interviewing Video interviewing should be treated no differently to a face to face interview. Microsoft Teams, Skype, Google Hangout and Zoom are popular technologies often used by employers to screen or interview a candidate remotely. Preparing yourself for a video interview and setting up the room prior is a critical step to ensure the video interview runs smoothly. Click on the blue dots in the image below to reveal potential problems and apply the fix based on the tips. Users of assistive technologies may prefer to download this activity, 'Video interviewing', as a non-interactive word document. Skip to download activity transcript button.

3. The importance of non-verbal behaviour First impressions count! In a survey of 2000 employers, 33% claimed that they know within the first 90 seconds of an interview whether they will hire someone. How you present yourself visually, through dress and other non-verbal behaviours, contributes greatly to overall interview performance.

1/Visual messaging Greet the interviewer with a smile. Having a confident posture, engaging hand gestures and being neatly groomed also adds value to an employers’ visual impression of candidates. Nodding, eye contact are other indicators you are paying attention. 2/ Vocal messaging Vocal messaging is how you show to an employer through tone of voice that you are motivated and enthusiastic about the role. This can be conveyed through the way in which you communicate your sentences in a clear, concise and confident manner. 3/ Verbal messaging Verbal messaging refers to what is actually said in response to an employer's questions or conversation. This is the opportunity to show how your skills, experience and knowledge fit the requirements of the job by providing verbal examples and insight.

Dress to impress! Key points to consider when dressing appropriately for an interview include:

Organisational Culture When you are deciding what to wear for a job interview, you should first take into consideration the culture of the organisation and dress accordingly. Are you interviewing with a company where the employees wear suits every day or do they wear t-shirts and jeans? If you are unsure, it is recommended that you dress conservatively to present a positive first impression. If your interview is arranged by a recruiter ask for their input on the best way to make a good impression.

Present yourself neatly Make sure your clothes are clean and neatly ironed. Select clothing that fits properly, but also helps you to feel comfortable and relaxed in your interview. Good grooming is essential with hair styled in a neat but manageable way to avoid fidgeting. Perfume and aftershave should be used sparingly. Other tips: ● If the interview is in person, arrive ten minutes early. If it’s a video interview (recorded, or in real time), make sure you won’t be disturbed and that your technology setup is working. ● Greet the interviewer with a smile. If the interview is in person, wait to be offered a chair before sitting down. ● Keep your breathing regular to help stay calm and allow for a good pace when speaking. ● Be attentive, listen and be aware of good non-verbal communication skills. If you don’t understand a question, ask for clarification rather than rushing your answer. Silence, while you think about your response, is fine. ● Be friendly and be yourself. Don’t underestimate the ‘likeability’ factor when being interviewed. 4. Interview questions Select the options below to explore the different types of interview questions: 1/ General questions General questions are typically asked to find out more about you as an individual and to determine whether you are a right fit for the team and wider organisation. With general questions, there is no correct format for answers. The best preparation for these questions is to rely on your research and your motivation in applying for the job. It is vital you demonstrate your authentic interest in the organisation and your motivation for applying for the role. Examples of general questions include: ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Can you tell me a bit about yourself? Why did you apply for this position? What are your three main strengths? What are your weaknesses? What do you know about our company and why would you want to work with us? What are your salary expectations? Do you have any questions for us?

Example - Why did you apply for this role? Interview example Interviewer: So why did you decide to apply for this role?

Interviewee: Um, the reason I really wanted to join your organisation is because I really love the way you’re able to use storytelling as a means to talk about something really important like marine conservation which is something I am super passionate about. So, the role really appealed to me because I am able to use I guess my skills in PR. I think some of my strengths are writing and being about to tailor messages to appeal to different demographics is something I feel that I am quite good at and to use that to work in an organisation that I’m really passionate about as well. I think that the work you do is so incredible and one of the most important things is letting people know it because even if you are doing amazing work and people don’t know about it, they can’t be engaged in it and that’s why I really want to take on this communications role, um, in order to I guess raise awareness and get that message out. Interview employer feedback This I would say is one of the most important questions you will get asked. Your motivation for joining an organisation in a particular position is something that is very important to them. Um, and is a way that you can really stand out from other people going for the same position. So make sure you’ve done your research into the role and into the organisation and you can clearly talk about why you’re interested in that particular position with that organisation. You want to demonstrate that you’ve done some research and you have an understanding of what they do and how that aligns to your own passions and interests. 5. Mind mapping Mind maps are a creative way to visually organise, brainstorm, make connections and solve complex problems. Mind mapping can be a useful tool to use before an interview and help you prepare. You can apply mind mapping techniques to help you brainstorm and visually connect your experience, skills, and qualifications when preparing responses to interview questions. Canva is an easy and free graphic design tool that can be used to create mind maps

Have a go: Create a mind map Using the template below have a go at creating your own mind map. Start brainstorming some situations, skills, activities or experiences that you would highlight if you were asked the below three questions in an interview.

Module 3: During the interview 1. Interview day The job interview is one of the most important steps in the recruitment and selection process. This is your chance to show the recruitment manager you are the best candidate for the role. Below are some useful tips to implement on the day of your job interview.

Time If the interview is in person, arrive ten minutes before the appointment time. If it’s a video interview (recorded or in real time), make sure you won’t be disturbed and that your technology setup is working. Check volume levels and microphone applications on your device prior to the video interview. Plan Always plan your journey to the job interview. If you are planning on driving to the interview always check: ● parking areas and zoned paid areas ● map and driving route ● road works, traffic congestion and potential delays ● amount of fuel in your car If you are on public transport remember to confirm timetables and stations and always allow for extra travel time. Presence ● Always greet the interviewer with a smile.

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If the interview is in person, wait to be offered a chair before sitting down. Keep your breathing regular to help stay calm and allow for a good pace when speaking. Be attentive, listen and be aware of good non-verbal communication skills. If you don’t understand a question, ask for clarification rather than rushing your answer. Silence, while you think about your response, is fine. Be friendly and be yourself. Don’t underestimate the ‘likeability’ factor when being interviewed.

Be prepared Bring a copy of your resume, job description and key selection criteria (if applicable). Have your portfolio or samples of your work readily available and always have paper and a pen handy. 2. Activity: Practice an interview Have a go - Learning activity (optional) Practice makes perfect when it comes to interviewing. A great way to practice your interview techniques can be through online interview simulators. You can use the online interview 360 tool to practice your interview technique with questions selected by leading recruitment managers. You can record your interview responses, obtain feedback and re-take the questions to check your improvement. It’s a great way to become more confident for job interviews. Have a go now with the Interview 360 tool. Reflect on how you felt you performed. Module 4: After the interview 1. After the interview Celebrate Once the interview has concluded make sure you celebrate your success and focus on the positives. Take this time to reflect on which aspects you performed well in and which areas might be improved for next time. Connect You may want to send a thank-you email or follow-up with a phone call within 24 hours of the interview to express your gratitude for the employer taking their time to meet with you. If you have not been told of the outcome of the interview by the expected date you may want to contact the recruitment manager and make an enquiry. Subsequent interviews Second round or even third round interviews may be required before a successful candidate is appointed. The purpose of subsequent interviews may vary so don’t be afraid to ask the

employer what to expect and how to best prepare. It may simply be a meet and greet with other staff members or another follow-up formal interview. Ask for feedback Once you do hear of the outcome, regardless of whether you were successful or not, ask for feedback on your performance so you learn and develop from the process. Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions if you deem it necessary. Remember to keep motivated and stay positive so you can maintain your confidence and resilience. 2. Activity: Follow up email After an interview, it is good practice to follow up with your interviewer. Using the scenario and the email template below, have a go at preparing a brief follow up email. Think about the date, subject line and content you would write.

After an interview, it is good practice to follow up with your interviewer. Using the scenario and email template below, have a go at preparing a brief follow up email. Think about the date, subject line and content you would write. Scenario Congratulations you have just had a job interview (on Tuesday) for a new position Account Executive at Acme Industries. At the end of the face to face interview the recruitment manager Jane Cullen thanked you for your time and mentioned she will be in contact with you by the end of the week. Activity 1. Write the day you would send the email. (Tip: You may want to send a thank-you email or follow-up with a phone call within 24 hours of the interview to express your gratitude for the employer taking their time to meet with you. If you have not been told of the outcome of the interview by the expected date you may want to contact the recruitment manager and make an enquiry.) 2. Write the subject line (Tip: Include the name of the position in the subject line and the words thank you.) 3. Write the email itself (Tip: Keep your message concise and brief. Keep the email focused by saying thank you and reiterate your interest in the position. Remember to proofread, check spelling and grammar.)

Example Email Dear Ms Cullen, I enjoyed speaking with you today about the Account Executive position at the Acme Industries. The job seems to be an excellent match for my skills and interests. The creative approach to account management that you described confirmed my desire to work with Acme. In addition to my enthusiasm, I will bring to the position strong writing skills, assertiveness, and the ability to encourage others to work cooperatively within the department. I appreciate the time you took to interview me. I am very interested in working for Acme Industries and look forward to hearing from you regarding this position. Sincerely, Your Name Email Address Address City, State, Post Code Phone Number [LinkedIn URL]

Module 5: Negotiating a job offer 1. Decision making models Negotiating salary This is an important step of any acceptance of an appointment. See the tips on the next page to ascertain how you can navigate this effectively. Read the employment contract Make sure you understand the conditions of employment by reading the contract prior to signing or accepting an offer. This applies to all types of work, including casual, part-time and fixed-term contracts. If you are unsure of a particular element of the contract ask to discuss this further with the HR representative of the organisation. Saying no to an offer If you have decided that the role is not quite the right fit or have simply changed your mind then you are perfectly within your right to withdraw your application. This is under the premise that you have not signed a contract. Before you say no, consider whether there are questions you have about the role that the organisation may be able to answer or negotiate further with you.

Notice period If you are currently working, check as to whether you have to provide a notice period to your current employer as this may determine your start date. The contract from your new employer should outline your required notice period depending on length of service and employment type, e.g. casual / fixed term contract. 2. Salary negotiating tips Trying to negotiate a salary is difficult in the final stages of accepting an offer. Consider these tips prior to going into an interview: Research Research the average salary of similar roles. You can do this by viewing the pay range scale advertised on job search sites or salary surveys such as: https://www.payscale.com/research/AU/Country=Australia/Salary https://www.hays.com.au/salary-guide/index.htm http://www.glassdoor.com.au/Salaries/index.htm?countryRedirect=true R...