| The object of your CV is to obtain
an interview. Once you have been invited for interview
you then need to convince the interviewer that you
are the best possible person for the job. Before
you enter the interview room, you are just another
name on the list. Make sure that by the time you
come out, yours is the only name on it. Remember
it's always better to get the job offer then decide
if it's right for you. You can't have that option
if you aren't offered the job. |
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| The recipe for a good interview is
preparation. Don't be afraid to ask your Ascend consultant
for as much detail as possible on the interviewer
and the job role. If you are lacking in confidence,
your consultant should be more than willing to meet
with you to discuss interview techniques, interview
format and preparation. At Ascend we are here to
help guide your career and help you take responsibility
for it. We will be only too happy to help you get
the most out of your interview. Outlined below is
the Ascend guide to advance your interview technique
for increased success: |
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When offered an interview,
you are in a situation where you have to sell yourself.
This is where you need self-confidence and selling
skills. If you are confident in your ability to do
a job and believe in yourself, the whole interview
process will be easier. It's just a case of communicating
this to the client.
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The interviewer's primary
interest will be in your ability to solve their problems.
You will need to demonstrate that you can do so confidently
and that you will be able to fit in with their team
with the minimum amount of fuss. They need to be
able to trust you.
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| It is important you
feel comfortable with interviews. They are the most
popular tools for an employer to assess the suitability
of candidates. More importantly, they are your best
opportunity to gain an insight into what the role
entails what the company culture is like and whether
you could enjoy working alongside their staff. |
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| Interview Preparation |
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| The more prepared you are for an interview,
the more confidence you will have and the more enjoyable
the interview will be. |
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Ask for the job specification
for the position from your Ascend consultant and
a copy of your profile that was sent with your CV.
Read the two very carefully so that it's clear in
your mind what the client's requirements are.
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Tailor your approach
to emphasise your ability - the skills, qualifications
and experience you have - to meet the company's requirements.
Be prepared to give examples of situations where
you have used these skills and your achievements.
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Where possible, your
Ascend consultant will include company information
to help you prepare for your interview and better
understand the company and the work it produces.
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However, you may find
that digging a little deeper also boosts your confidence
at the interview. A company website is a potentially
excellent source of suitable information. Being even
a little knowledgeable demonstrates to the interviewer
that you have gone to the trouble to see whether
you'd fit into the team and make a successful 'career'
out of a 'job'.
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Each interview will
be different from the last. They come in different
formats and with different personalities. Some interviews
may be one to one, other times it may be with a panel.
The emphasis may be on your skills or your personality.
Always ask your Ascend consultant for as much information
as possible about the format of the interview.
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Write down possible
questions that the interviewer may ask you and have
in your mind possible answers. If you can't answer
a question don't worry, be honest, and focus on what
you can do for them. For example, if you are lacking
in one of their skills, say you are but that you
are adaptable, a very quick learner and that you
think on-the-job is the best way to learn.
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Remain focused on your
career direction. This shows that you take your career
seriously and that the client is dealing with a professional.
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Never say anything
negative; use your weaknesses constructively. Be
positive. Don't pretend you have no weaknesses because
everyone has some. On the other hand don't put your
self down, because you could be talking your way
out of a job. Discuss your weaknesses as though you
have recognised them and strive to overcome them.
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Dress smartly for the
interview. Remember that first impressions count.
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Get all the client
details, contact name and telephone number, address,
directions and a map if possible.
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Have a list of questions
to ask the interviewer at the end of the interview.
Some of these may have been answered during the interview,
however a prepared list of questions shows you have
given the interview some thought. Do not ask about
rates of pay. Your Ascend consultant will negotiate
this.
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Be prepared for any
relevant tests, which does happen in some interviews.
Your Ascend consultant will provide you with details,
should a test be expected.
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| Format
of the Interview |
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| As the interview may take
many forms, however, there are some basic guidelines
to the types of questions that are asked. Generally,
the questions asked would relate to your any relevant
experience you have required for the role with a
section on what skills you have used where and in
what depth. The interviewer will also be interested
in your personality and what traits you bring the
job. The more junior role, the more "team player" questions
are asked. The more senior the role, the more "leading,
managing, motivating" type questions are asked.
If the role requires contact with the interviewer's
client, they will need to know how capable you are
at developing good relationships. |
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| Day of
the Interview - Checklist |
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| Make
sure you have the following with you: |
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A copy of the job specification |
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2-3 copies of your CV |
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Name and number of your contact |
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Directions and Map |
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List of questions to ask at the end
of the interview |
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| It is
important you: |
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Arrive on time - arrive 15-30 minutes
before the job interview. This will give you time
to find a parking space, go through any security
procedures, go to the washroom, re-read your CV and
job specification. |
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Be presentable |
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| You must
be able to demonstrate: |
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Confidence in your skills |
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Commitment |
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Knowledge of the organisation |
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Professionalism |
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Motivation |
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Ability to communicate |
