Interview Techniques

Careful preparation is one of the keys to a successful interview. In most instances the interviewer doesn’t know you or your capability, other than what is outlined on your resume and what your Bluefin Resources Account Manager has communicated to the client. The interview is your opportunity to bring your resume to life. Here are some essential tips:

• Research your prospective employer. A company’s own website is the best place to start, and don’t forget to run a google search for other information. Talk to your Bluefin Resources Account Manager – we know our clients very well.
• Review your resume. Ensure you can articulate concisely and clearly the purpose, key responsibilities and major achievements of your current and past roles.
• In a first interview clients will typically ask a number of generic questions – make sure you are prepared to answer these.
  • Why are you looking to move on from your current employer?
  • What are you looking for in a role?
  • What type of company do you want to work for?
  • Where do you want to be in two and five years?
  • What do you know about the company (you are interviewing with)?
  • What do you know about the role (you are interviewing with)?
  • Why do you want this job?
  • How do you like to be managed?
  • Strengths and weaknesses. Remember that it is okay to admit to weaknesses, though better if you can follow up your answer by indicating how you are working on them.
• Do you understand the role that you are being interviewed for? If unsure about any aspect of the position, discuss with your Bluefin Resources Account Manager. Ensure you have specific examples in your recent work history where you have demonstrated the key responsibilities of the role you are interviewing for. In particular know your key achievements inside out, based on the situation, action, outcome model.
• Practice your interview technique – either by visualising questions and your answers, or borrow a friend to help you role-play an interview.
• Dress appropriately for the position and the company. If a suit is normal business attire, then dress accordingly. For more relaxed environments, a suit may well look out of place – if in doubt, ask your Bluefin Resources Account Manager for their advice.
• Double check the location of the interview and time your travel so that you will arrive just a little early.
• Be aware that behavioural, skills based or case study based interviewing techniques may be used. Click on the links below to find out more.