Interview Preparation

Interview Tips

Thorough interview preparation is vital to getting the most out the interview exchange - remember this is your opportunity to find out all you need to know to make a decision should you be offered a position.

Know Your Motivations

Look at your job function analysis, (see ‘Marketing Yourself’ section) Why did you take each job? Why did you leave each job? What personal and professional development are you looking for? Why do you want the position? What can you bring to the position? What relevant skills and experience do you have?

Know Your Competencies

Prepare examples of your Generic and Specific competencies and situations in which you have used them.

Generic Competencies
e.g. Team working, Working Independently, acting on your own initiative, Technical ability, Enthusiasm, Priority Setting, Interpersonal ability, Time Management, Leadership, Presentation style, influencing style, relationship building ability
Ask yourself ‘What skills do I have that make me a good leader? ask the same question for every competency

Specific Skills (refer to your current job description):
e.g. Management skills, Problem Solving, Customer, Sales/ marketing skills, Analytical skills, Business development skills, Account Management, Capital Equipment Sales and Distributor Management.

Research the company

Ask your recruitment consultant for as much information about the role, especially a job description, information about the hiring manager and their background, what specifically they are looking for. Also ask them for not only website links about the company but literature and newsletters. Review the company and product specific web pages, also look at the investor relations and press release section of websites to update yourself on the latest news and market updates. Ask customers about the company and visit customers and see the products if possible.

Plan Your Journey

Plan your route. Allow for traffic jams and delays. Do you have enough information on the company's location? If you need directions, then click here for an online map service.