You have been invited to interview, how do you prepare?
Settle the nerves, breathe and get ready!
For any meeting, preparation is key. Interviews are no different. The purpose of an interview is to explore and assess if you are the right fit for a particular role including skills, experience, culture fit, leadership capability, etc. The typical format is questions & answers, but essentially it is a respectful conversation to explore a match between candidate with an open position. Simple.
“Failing to prepare is preparing to fail!”
How do you prepare?
The recruiter or hiring manager has invited you for interview so they must see merit and relevance in your application. You are one step further in the process and now have a real chance to secure the position. Don’t blow it by lack of planning and preparation.
It is highly unlikely that you will be given interview questions in advance, but I suggest thinking about a list of potential questions and then contemplate your response. In a position description, there is usually a list of key skills or attributes. Ask yourself, where do I clearly and strongly align, and identify the gaps. How will you fill this gap or gain this experience?
Confidently speaking about your key achievements, success and skills is important for a competitive edge, and clearly identifying your gaps demonstrates strong self-awareness. It’s a balance.
Google is a great resource to research sample interview questions on key topics of leadership, problem solving, fundraising, governance, etc and practice your response to different questions that are relevant to the requirements and priorities of the position.
Be a STAR
Take out the position description and against key responsibility, reflect on your experience and think of 2-3 examples that clearly demonstrate your knowledge, achievement or success. A simple way to answer behavioural questions and keep on track is the STAR Method.
Situation
Task
Action
Result
You may be put on the spot and your response could be “Ah, Er, I’m not sure”. Alternatively, your preparation will shine through as you provide relevant examples that highlight your key strengths, experience and relevance.
Tell me about yourself... What’s your elevator pitch?
This is a common question to kick off an interview, and an opportunity to demonstrate your exceptional communication skills, build rapport, connect with the interview panel and highlight your relevance. Think of these key questions…. WHY is this role the right role for you? WHY are you an excellent candidate for this position? WHAT will you bring to their organisation? What is your key message? Have your elevator pitch ready! Practice and refine your 2-5 minutes brief answer so you impress the interview panel with a confident answer, plus ease your nerves.
This simple question is one that stumps many candidates. Responses are either long, or replying with “What would you like to know?”, “It’s in my CV?” or even worse, starting with “I was born in 1975, went to Kingswood Primary School, then went overseas, got married, had 3 children…. blah blah blah”, or as George Costanza on Sienfield would say, “Yada Yada Yada!” This type of response without any relevance wastes a valuable opportunity and crucial time.
The interviewers would have read your application prior to your interview so you don’t need to go through every tiny detail. Don’t miss this vital opportunity to sell yourself.
What do you know about our organisation?
You are not expected to know everything but research their mission, vision, key challenges, services, programs and competitors. Check their website, annual and financial reports, newsletters, media releases, LinkedIn and of course Google.
Time Management
Yes, it is a skill, and one that you can demonstrate through the interview process. If you are late, it can plant a seed of doubt about your punctuality, level of interest and commitment.
Turn up early. Be ready. Be prepared.
An interview is generally scheduled for 45 minutes to an hour. It is the time dedicated to you to put yourself forward as an excellent candidate, so use this time wisely.
“Talent will get you in the door, but character will keep you in the room”
Some final tips:
Be yourself! Your professional, authentic and engaging self.
Dress for the job you want!
Your attire can impact your mindset and confidence.
You don’t want to be remembered for the wrong reasons.
Listen carefully and answer questions confidently and succinctly.
Express genuine interest in the role.
Be mindful of body language including posture and eye contact.
Be inclusive of all panel members. Don’t assume who contributes to or makes the final decision.
Firm and confident handshake (or elbow bump as per COVID-19 guidelines).
If via Zoom, Skype, Webex or other online platform, the same tips apply, including being dressed. Check your technology, sound and lighting prior and ensure you have the necessary links and passwords ready to connect on time.
Leave a lasting impression. Simply say…
“thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you”
- Written by Michelle Varcoe, Gembridge.
Further Reading
Other resources that may be helpful