Job Interview

For the company, the interview focuses on the following 3 key questions:

• Competence: Does the applicant meet the requirements of the position? (qualifications, strengths, experience, achievements)
• Motivation: Are they motivated to perform as required?
• Personality: Are they a good fit for us as a person?

Usually, the STAR Method is used to ask questions. For a collection of common question, have a look at: Interviewer Questions

Before we go to an interview, we first have to prepare:

• Interview SWOT Analysis
• USP Elevator Pitch
• A reference sheet containing the contact details of already informed people (previous line manager, peer, mentor, etc.)

As an applicant, you want to:

• Come across as someone who is interested in the vacant position through your answers, statements, questions and general impression.
  • Here is a collection of my usual Interviewee Questions
  • Be positive, friendly, confident, and treat people as equals.
  • When you’re invited, this means that they are also interested in you, so there is no need to be timid.
  • Your interviewers would like to be convinced by you and the added value you can bring to the company.
  • Nervousness is perfectly normal, even expected, and shows that the interview is important to you.
    • Do not try to suppress or hide your nervousness; simply accepting it will help it subside.
    • If you do experience a blackout during the interview, do not hesitate to mention your nervousness. This demonstrates honesty and will automatically make you feel more relaxed.
  • Avoid using the word “one” in interviews, for example, “one has developed a concept.” It is better to say, “I have developed a concept.”
  • Keep in mind that your appearance and demeanour have a greater impact than words.
    • Body language (posture, facial expressions, and gestures) and your voice are more honest than the spoken word and account for 80-90% of communication!
    • Non-verbal communication should therefore reflect your personality, emphasize what you say, and signal your interest.
      • But do not try to play a role. Authenticity is crucial!
• Get to know the position, company, and people in order to decide to what extent the role and environment match your skills and preferences.
  • After the interview is over, you should do: Interview Reflection

Dealing with rejections:

• Don’t be discouraged and consider the interview as another important training session.
• Ask for details of the rejection for reflection and to help you prepare for future interviews.
  • Refrain from persistent inquiries, even if you have not received a satisfactory answer.
    • There could always be future vacancies at the same company!

Dealing with acceptance:

• Can you say yes with your head and your gut feeling?
• Does the offer meet all your expectations in all essential points?
• Then nothing stands in the way of signing the contract!

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Relevant Note(s): Career