Inside the Interview

• Kristi Sproul
• August 09, 2019
• Newsletter Article

The uncertainty of what to expect creates an unnerving interview. We have the insight from employers on how they score interviews.

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Inside the Interview

By Kristi Sproul, AgCareers.com

 

Without question one of the most unnerving parts of the job seeking journey is the interview. For most, it’s the uncertainty of what to expect during the interview that gives them the jitters. Interview types can vary by employer and even with all the practice questions available, there’s no way to know exactly what to expect.

You’ve likely heard the standard interview advice. While these tips are certainly on point, we wanted to dig deeper by getting insight from employers about how they score interviews. How much does experience really matter, what’s a red flag, and what makes an interview exceptional were just a few of the topics we talked to employers about. We have the inside scoop from HR professionals, summarized in the following tips.

Interviewers’ Insider Tips:

1. Take initiative by thoroughly researching the industry, the organisation, and their customers.
2. Arrive early, follow instructions and strive to make connections with your initial introduction.
3. Bring printed copies of your resume and references, even if you submitted your application electronically.
4. Make the effort to shake everyone’s hand if the room set-up allows.
5. Provide specific detailed examples when explaining your experiences, including outcomes and accomplishments. Avoid hypotheticals.
6. Describe how your employability skills such as teamwork, project management, and communication will add value to the organisation.
7. Use the opportunity to ask relevant questions and learn more about the specific role you are interviewing for.
8. Verbally thank the employer for their time at the end of the interview.
9. Make post-interview follow-up a priority, reiterating why you want the job and emphasize your competencies that align with the role.

As you prepare for your next interview, review this article and decide how you will be able to deliver on the employers’ advice!

Start the search for your next career at AgCareers.com.