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Application Tips - Preparing for the interview

Preparation

  • Research the company before the interview. This will impress the interviewers and also help you determine if the company is what youre looking for. The companys website is always a good way to gather up-to-date relevant information. Other sources include newspapers, business magazines etc.
  • Know the companys products and services and be prepared to tell the interviewer why their company is attractive to you
  • Familiarise yourself with the key duties and responsibilities of the position that you are applying for. Be able to articulate clearly why you are interested in the position and how you match the job requirements
  • Be familiar with the contents of your CV and have concrete examples to back-up your experiences
  • Plan for typical questions such as: - Achievements to date - Strengths / areas which require development - Challenging situations from previous roles and/or educational experience - Working in a team environment - likes / dislikes - Why you think you would be good at this job - Long term career ambitions
  • Your research on the company and the position should generate some questions about the company and your potential career path. Prepare 2-4 relevant questions. Asking relevant questions at the end of your interview will convey that are genuinely interested in the position and it will also help you determine if the position is the right one for you.
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Day of Interview

  • Make sure you know where the venue is and who you are to ask for
  • Arrive in plenty of time, allow time for travel delay
  • Dress professionally
  • Bring a copy of your application with you to the interview so that you can refer to it, as required
  • Turn off your mobile phone before the interview!
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During Interview

  • Introduce yourself courteously and confidently
  • Greet the interviewer/s with a firm handshake, good eye contact and a relaxed smile
  • Make a point of remembering the names of the panel
  • Always try to answer the question that is being asked and try not to wander off the point
  • Always justify your answers by giving concrete examples from your experience to date
  • If you are unsure of exactly what you are being asked; ask the interviewer to repeat or clarify the question
  • Include all members of the Interview Panel with your response using eye contact.
  • Show how your experience can benefit the organisation
  • Smile
  • Be Positive - avoid negative comments about yourself and past employers.
  • Do not misrepresent your qualifications and/or experience. Be as honest as possible
  • Ask relevant questions about the position/company
  • Be confident, enthusiastic and most importantly be yourself!
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