Interview Tips

The majority of interviews that you are likely to attend will be competency based. A competency based interview is designed to ascertain your attitudes, skills and knowledge, demonstrated as behaviours. Each candidate will be asked similar questions, designed to obtain information about the match between the candidate’s competencies and those required for the job.

The following tips should help you in handling the interview process:

DO

PERFORM SOME COMPANY AND INDUSTRY RESEARCH
You want to be able to intelligently discuss what you know about the company and industry, and you can easily find that information through research online and the company website.

THINK ABOUT YOUR STRENGTHS AND DEVELOPMENTAL NEEDS
You want to be able to explain to the interviewer why you are the best candidate for the position. The best way to go about this is to highlight your strengths and how they apply to the Firm.

THINK ABOUT YOUR PAST EXTRACURRICULAR OR WORK EXPERIENCE
The Firm is interested in hiring people who have demonstrated ability in various areas. It would be helpful to discuss any relevant experiences.

BE ON TIME FOR THE INTERVIEW
First impressions are vital. If you show up late you are already hurting your chances to land the position.

BE CLEAR AND CONCISE IN YOUR ANSWERS AND QUESTIONS
Make sure to answer the interviewer's questions clearly and to the point. Give specific examples and anecdotes to highlight your skills and experiences.

MAINTAIN EYE CONTACT THROUGHOUT THE INTERVIEW:
Looking away while you speak can be viewed as being evasive. Maintain eye contact with the person you are speaking to.

BRING EXTRA COPIES OF YOUR RESUME
Always have an extra copy on hand should the interviewer not have it.



DON’T

USE NEGATIVE INFORMATION WHEN DISCUSSING YOUR BACKGROUND
Always accentuate the positive.

LEAVE YOUR PERSONALITY ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DOOR
Ask questions, make comments and pay attention.

TALK ABOUT PERSONAL INFORMATION
Your personal life is your own business. If it doesn't affect your ability to do the job, don't discuss it.

USE “WE”
At interview use the personal pronoun “I”. The interviewer wants to know what you achieved, not what the team achieved.

ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT THE POSITION, COMPANY OR INDUSTRY THAT YOU SHOULD ALREADY KNOW THE ANSWER TO
Asking questions like this will make you appear unprepared for the interview.

Please also see Competency Based Interviewing Techniques


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