Interview tips – What your interviewer is really asking
Are you wondering what to expect at your next job interview? Knowing what interview questions to expect can help you to prepare for your first meeting with your prospective employer. Not only will adequate preparation increase the quality of your answers, it will also boost your confidence. Read our blog post to learn more about our top interview tips.
1. What is important in your answer?
It’s not only what you say that is important, it’s how you say it. Confidence is an important attribute that interviewers are looking out for as it’s easier for people to believe in you when you believe in yourself. Responding to questions honestly and with confidence is sure to create a good first impression. A professional attitude is also key to getting hired. A balance between showing interest in the job and knowing how you can add value to the company is advantageous. Make sure that you speak clearly and avoid slang. Thoughtful answers that are well articulated are an indication of your verbal communication capabilities.
2. Top interview tips
Your responses to questions are not the only aspect that your interviewer will be evaluating. Body language can give your prospective employer insight into your work ethics and personal attributes. It’s important to sit up straight and to maintain eye contact during the job interview. This body language exudes confidence and professionalism. Likewise, you’ll need to look attentive when the interviewer asks questions. Listening skills are an important part of communication, which is a valuable asset in the business world.
3. What interview questions can you expect?
• Why do you want this job?
This question is an opportunity for you to show your interviewer that you’ve read the job description properly and that you have an understanding of what the position entails. You can also include why you want to work for their company in particular, which requires you to research their portfolio, mission and values. Add information on what skills you have that equip you for the role. Employers want to hire staff that are committed to their work as well as people who fit in with the company culture.
• What are your strengths and weaknesses
The standard job interview aims to assess what you have to contribute to the company as well as if you are aware of what your shortcomings are. This question provides you with an opportunity to showcase your skills and work experience. Instead of just listing your skills, give examples of a time when you demonstrated your capabilities in a professional setting. Think of skills that are relevant to the position that you’re being interviewed for. When it comes to listing your shortcomings, select one or two weaknesses that are not a major barrier to being hired. Mention a skill that is not your strong point then continue with the steps that you are taking to address this shortcoming.
• Where do you see yourself in five years?
One of our top interview tips is to have an in-depth understanding of your career path and goals. Knowing where you want to be in the next few years shows that you’re dedicated to your career and that you are ambitious. Research the job that you’re interviewing for and what career progression opportunities are available. Showing the interviewer that you’ve thought about advancing your career is an indication that you’ll be a dedicated and loyal employee. This question also gives the interviewer insight into whether you’re a good fit for the company or not.
Now that you’ve read out interview tips, you can start preparing for your first meeting with your employer. A job interview is an opportunity to make a great first impression on your prospective employers so that you get your relationship off to a good start. If you’re on the hunt for a new job, visit Job Mail today to see what’s available.
