So let's consider some of the approaches taken by different Employers and Recruiters:
• They may be informal or more structured /formal.
• You may have to go through a 2 stage process
• Possibly 1 to 1, where you meet either a HR or Personnel person. This may then mean seeing a 'Line Manager'. Often you will see both together.
• Panel interviews with 3, or sometimes more, members are not uncommon.
• You may be asked to a variety of 'Selection Tests', or 'Psychometric' assessments. Don't worry, they will be explained fully and they help Employers to try to make the correct selection, for both of you. Make sure you follow their instructions, and if you have questions ask them!
• Occasionally, and most likely for Management jobs, you may be asked to a Group Interview, where all the candidates are brought together, and then observed 'inter-acting' and may be asked to undertake certain roles.
• Some Employers now conduct 'telephone interviews' (or screening as it's called).
Whilst sometimes Employers make it clear in their advertising that when you call you will be interviewed, beware because often you are not informed that this is happening. So again, be prepared!
Get your information together;I suggest that before your interview you consider the following, although it is by no means exhaustive!
Firstly about the organisation:
• What does it do, what is it's purpose, business plan, products or services?
• What size and scale are they; ie Financial turnover, staff numbers?
• Who owns them, A Board, Parent Company etc
• What is their business performance like?. Are they in profit, and what are the immediate prospects for them ie growing or receding? How long have they been established?
• Can you find any reports, press articles, other information? You can use the 'Business Section' of your local Library, acquire Annual report etc.
• Try to find out their reputation from their customers/clients etc.
The Job:
• As stated previously you need at least the full advertisement for the job, and if they exist a Job Description and a Person Specification (ie. What they state they want in an ideal candidate)
• See if you can gain useful information (but not negative gossip) from any contacts or friends, who work for or are linked with the organisation.
• If in doubt there's no reason why you can't ask for additional information!
The Interview:
• The date, time and precise location. Beware, sometimes interviews are not held at Companies HQ.! Always try to get a copy of a Location Map.
• Get a telephone number and, if stated in letter, retain the name of the interviewer and/ or a contact person, who may not be the same person!
• Parking facilities? If in doubt ring and ask well before the interview date.
In summary, Planning and Preparation are immensely important. If you get them right your foundation will be as strong as possible. Go for - it's a great investment of your time.
Please refer to; john@jobsandcareernews.co.uk
Refer to; http://jobsandcareernews.co.uk
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Unitt
