INTERVIEW SKILLS

INTRODUCTION:-

 An interview is a formal meeting where one or more persons ask a  candidate several questions. The purpose is to determine whether the candidate is suitable for a job or a seat in an educational institution.

The candidate first sends an application and a CV to be called for an interview. An interview is typically the final stage in the selection process.

HOW TO PREPARING FOR AN INTERVIEW:-

Preparing well for an interview helps you face the panel of experts with confidence. Remember the following points when you are preparing for an interview.

1)    Brush up on the area related to the interview and update yourself on recent development.

2)    Prepare answers to some general questions you think interviewers will ask. Some of these could be.

       Tell us a little about yourself.

       Why do you want to be with us?

      Could you tell us why you want to change your job?

       What are your strengths and weaknesses?

       Would you be willing to travel?

       How do you expect to contribute to the field/institution?

3)     Arrange the papers and certificates that you may be asked to produce neatly in a folder. Check the interview call letter to you to see if there is anything you have missed.

4)     wear something formal and comfortable for the occasion.

5)     Plan to reach the place of the interview a little early as this will give you time to familiarise yourself with your surroundings and relax.

6)      Think positive, pleasant thoughts and try to regulate your breathing to remain calm.

FACING AN INTERVIEW(TOP 13 SKILLS):- 

1)     Wait for your name to be announced, and knock or seek permission before you enter.

2)     Greet the people in the room formally but in a pleasant manner. 

3)     Do not sit down until you are asked to.

4)     Look at the interviewers.

5)     Remember not to interrupt the interviewer and allow them to finish speaking before you respond.

6) If you do not hear a question you are asked or do not understand, you could politely ask for it to be repeated or explained.

        For example:-

          I'm sorry, but could you repeat the question, please. 

                                                     I'm afraid I'm not sure what you mean. Are you asking me if I...?/Could you clarify the question,                                                               please.

7)     Do not feel embarrassed to say that you do not know the answer to a question. Use expressions Such as I'm afraid I don't                     know...' and I'm sorry, but I'm not sure...,'

8)     Express your opinions politely, not aggressively, using expressions Such as 'I think ....,' I believe...' and ' In my opinion.....',

9)     Do not get into arguments, speak negatively, or criticize former teachers, colleagues, or employers.

10)    Do not boast or display your knowledge, skills, and experience, but state your achievements and honestly if asked.

11)    Wait for the interviewer to invite you to ask questions in case you have queries. If this does not happen, wait until you sense that interviewers are done before asking them politely if they could clarify something for you. Examples of the questions you may                 want to ask the interviewer are,' Could you tell me whether the position involves traveling, please; and Could I know when I can             expect to hear from you, please.'

12)    Wait for the interviewer to tell you that the interview has ended before getting up from your chair. Thank all the people in the room before walking out of the door and closing it softly behind you.

13) If the interview is conducted over the telephone, most of the points above will still be relevant. In addition, be careful about regulating your voice, avoiding long silences, and butting in before the interviewer has finished speaking. If the person at the other end of the line interrupts you, do not drown their voice by raising yours, but let the person talk. You can then continue with' As I was saying ....', etc.