Summary:
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Preparation of the interview
- Make sure you know the format of the interview and dress appropriately, so that you feel comfortable and confident.
- Make sure you know where you are going and how to get there - and leave yourself plenty of time.
- Re-read your application. Remember what you said and why you said it.
- Research the company and the particular business area to which you're applying. We won't expect you to be an expert, but being aware of major trends and commercial issues would be an advantage.
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During the interview
- Body language is important. Shake hands firmly, smile and sit upright rather than slouching. Show interest in what is being said by nodding.
- Most interviewers will offer you a drink, so don't be afraid to accept.
- Don't be too bashful; don't be too bold - aim to maintain 80% eye contact with whoever is talking to you.
- Speak clearly and concisely, but avoid one-word answers. 'Yes' and 'no' won't tell your interviewer anything and will ensure you don't progress to the next stage.
- Answer the question you've been asked - rather than just talking about everything you know. This means listening carefully to what is being said.
- Be enthusiastic, but never babble.
- Don't be afraid of silences - take time to form your responses. It's far better to think before you speak than to go off at a tangent during your answer.
- Of course, you'll have read the company website, but don't repeat it verbatim.
- Ask the interviewer to explain anything you don't understand.
- At the end, you may want to find out when you are likely to hear from us.
Your answers should be clear, concise and show your genuine interest in the Firm. Interview questions are not always difficult; in fact, some can be quite simple.
Below are some examples of General Interview Questions. You should also be prepared to answer specific queries about your background, your qualifications, previous internships or positions you've held, your school experiences and the accomplishments included on your resume.
You should come with questions for us as well! The interview is an opportunity for you to ask about your role and responsibilities, the strategy of a specific group or company in general.
Your school's career services office, library or resource center can help you find other sources and questions as you prepare for interviews.
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Questions to expect
- Tell me about yourself.
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- How would your friends describe you?
- Are you entrepreneurial?
- Give me an example of a situation where you demonstrated leadership.
- Give an example of how you worked on a team.
- How creative are you? Give an example.
- What do you like/dislike about your current position?
- What do you like/dislike about your current boss?
- What are planning to be doing in 5 years?
- Why are you considering a career change at this time?
- Why are you interested in a specific industry?
- Why did you choose to interview with us for this role?
- What do you know about the company?
- Describe the ideal position for you.
- What are the most important things to you in a job?
- What qualities do you think make someone successful in business?
- Why do you think you are qualified for this position?
- What makes you more qualified than the other applicants?
- What salary, hourly and/ or benefits are you expecting?
- Why did you select your college or business school?
- What courses have you liked most? Least? Why?
- What are you learning that will help you in your work with our client?
- What do you do in your spare time?
- What would you like me to know most that is not in your resume?
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Questions to ask
- What will be my responsibilities?
- Where will I fit into the overall organizational structure?
- Who will I report to?
- Where does he/she fit in the structure?
- Who will report to me?
- How experienced are they?
- What do you expect me to do in the first 6 months?
- What level of performance do you expect from me?
- Who are your customers?
- Where is the company going? Upwards? Expansion plans?
- What are the chances of advancement/promotion in this position? When?
- What will be my salary, benefits and bonuses? [Do not bring this up too early in the interview - wait until they are sold on you.]
- Will travelling be required in this position?
- Will relocation be required now or in the future?
- What training do you provide?
- When will you decide on the appointment?
- What is the next step?
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After the interview
If you're successful, there will probably be further steps in the recruitment process. Make sure you understand them and what is required of you.
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