A. What is JOB INTERVIEW?
Generally, someone will face job interview after sending an application letter to a firm or an enterprises. This might be the last step for an applicant to pass in order to get a job or promoted. There are many definitions about job interview. A very homely definition states that job interview is asking ans answering question dealing with job vacancy. Someone who asks questions is called interviewer and someone who answers them is called interviewee or applicant. Remember the materials we have already discussed in the previous session that sending application is not applying job, but asking an opportunity to face job interview. That is why an applicant, in his application, must be able to convince the employer that s/he is the right candidate to face job interview.
It is very important to realize that the final task of interviewer is to recommend or not to recommend the applicant. In recommending an applicant, it usually takes long time by asking many questions. That is why some people assume that the longer someone takes job interview the more possible s/he will be accepted.
Some applicants get stressful on job interview, but some others have different point of view. However, If the applicants know what they have to do on job interview and make good preparation, job interview can be an interesting moment, because this is the final step to get job or promoted.
In order to be well-prepared on job interview, an interviewee had better identify all possible questions and prepare the expected answers. There are two classifications of questions on job interview: The first classification is general questions and the second one is specific questions. General questions will be asked to all interviewees from different educational backgrounds while specific questions deal with their majors.
Here are some general questions:
- Please tell me your family background.
- How did you get this vacancy?
- Tell me your last education, please!
- What do you know about this firm, enterprise, hospital, bank?
- What is your motivation to work here?
- Please tell me your work experience relating to this position.
- Why did you quit your previous job?
- Who is your favorite figure?
- What are your hobbies?
- Do you like working overtime?
- What is your weakness?
- How much salary do you expect?
- learn more questions on your Business English Module, Page 43.
B. TIPS
For any job interviewee, it is important to be well prepared to face job interview and create good impression to the interviewer from the moment you arrive there. Here are some tips on how you can make it successfully. .
Tip 1: Look the Part
- You have to dress professionally in conservative clothing with appropriate shoes, minimal jewelry, and perfume. Even if the office is casual, you should dress in business attire in showing that you are ready to work. Remember, some people believe that performance may reflect someone character.
Tip 2: Before the Interview
- Let you bring a portfolio with extra copies of your resume or CV, a list of references, and a notepad and pen. Use a breath mint before you enter the building. Leave the gadgets at home or turned off in your bag or briefcase.
Tip 3: Arrive on Time
- Arrive a few minutes early for your interview. It is very important to be on time for the interview. On time means ten to fifteen minutes early. Know the interviewer’s name and use it during the interview. If you’ are not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. When you arrive for your interview, greet the receptionist and let him or her know why you are there.
- It is best to get there a little early to allow time in case you get lost and need to fix your clothes and hair.
Tip 4: Answer Questions Calmly
- During job interview, try to remain as calmly as possible. Ask for clarification if you are not sure what has been asked and remember that it is perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to frame your responses so you can be sure to fully answer the question.
- Make a list of questions beforehand to ask the interviewer.
Tip 5: Ask Questions About the Job
- Be prepared with questions of your own, because you will probably be asked if you have any at the end of the interview. Having questions will show that you have done your homework and are truly interested in the position.
- Be prepared. Know as much about the company and the job as possible and know why you’re the person they should hire. Practice answering possible questions.
Tip 6: Follow Up
- Ask your interviewer for a business card so that you will have the correct spelling of names and job titles for your thank you notes and follow up calls. It is important to thank the interviewer for their time and to let them know that you look forward to hearing from them. Follow up by sending a thank you note to everyone you interviewed with.
Tip 7 : Miscellaneous
- Give a firm handshake when greeting the interviewer and when saying good-bye.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Be confident and try to act as calmly as possible.
- Be honest.
C. CASES ON JOB INTERVIEW
Sometimes an interviewer portrays cases or problems to an interviewee in order to find out more detail information about applicant’s character and ability.
Here two examples
1. Imagine that you are offered a perfect job. The salary is more than you expected; the responsibilities are challenging, and the job will give you an opportunity to use your skills and talent. The only problem is that the job requires you to move to a small town across the country. Consequently, you will be far away from your family and will stay there for about five years. Would you take or leave the job?
Note : You need to consider advantages and disadvantages of your choice.
2. You are being interviewed for a job in a prestigious firm. The question of salary comes up. The interviewer offers you $19,000, but you tell her that you cannot accept anything below $23,000. Her offer would represent a salary cut for you (on your last job you earned $20,000). The interviewer explains that for an entry level position, company rules are that salary be $19,000. You feel that you are worth more and try to explain this. Finally, the interviewer says, “I cannot change company rules. Take or leave it”. You want the job. To go back to your demands would make you feel weak and cowardly. What would you do?