Unit XX

In the country where jobs are not guaranteed and employers interview several people for each job, the job interview has become a science. This science can be learned, but there is an important point to remember: it is a dialogue, and you are an active participant.

A typical job interview usually consists of four principal parts:

- introduction – establishing a rapport;

- main part – discussion of the interviewee’s background and credentials;

- conclusion – answering the interviewee’s questions;

- parting – thanking and saying good-bye.

Introduction. Many recruiters begin the interview with a small talk. Topics may range from the weather to sports; nevertheless, you are still being evaluated. The recruiter may be judging how well you communicate on an informal basis. This means you must do more than smile and nod.

The main part. One may predict a few of the broad topics that will be raised in an interview. They are: candidate’s skills and qualifications, his personality, how he perceives himself, career expectations. Although you cannot predict the interviewer’s precise questions, you can at least draw up a list of the common questions:

- What makes you want to work for this company?

- Why do you think you would be good at this particular job?

- What do you think has been your greatest achievement in your career so far?

- What are your strengths (weaknesses)?

- What do you like best/least about you last job?

- How do you envisage your future? Where do you see yourself professionally in three year’s time?

However, much you prepare your ideas; you bound to find yourself facing some difficult questions – those that take you by surprise. Whatever you do, don’t panic. Pause, think, and take your time in answering. If the question is subtle or complicated, don’t be ashamed to ask the interviewer to repeat it. If you are really struck and cannot answer a question, say so.

Conclusion. Usually you are invited at the end of the interview to ask questions of your own. It is important to have a few ready. By asking intelligent, well-thought-out questions, you show the employer you are serious about the organization and you have also done your homework. Some recruiters refuse to hire people who don’t ask intelligent questions. But don’t ask questions just for sake of asking questions. You should have a list of questions prepared in advance. Whatever you ask, keep the form of the questions positive and constructive – for example: ‘Does the company plant to expand in the near future?’, ‘Will there be opportunities for training?’, ‘What is the scope for promotion?’ This is the opportunity to show some initiative and imagination. But keep your questions short, genuine, relevant and few in number. Here are some more prompt of interviewee’s questions:

- What are the specific duties and responsibilities of the job?

- Whom will I directly report to?

- How many people will I be working with?

- What is the work schedule?

- What type of training will be provided?

The interviewer will probably tell you about the salary and working hours. Showing too much interest in lunch time, vacations, sick leave or short working hours may give the impression that you are more interested in time off than the time on. Most experts agree that you should not ask about salary and benefits unless you are reasonably sure the employer is seriously considering of hiring you.

Parting and follow up. When you leave an interview, thank the interviewer for taking time and consideration. Ask when you will be notified of the company’s decision. If you have not received any answer after three weeks time, follow up with a letter or telephone call.

I. Check yourself by marking the statements with letters T (true) or F (false):

1. When you answer a question during an interview, the word ‘yes’ by itself is quite enough. _______

2. Try to maintain eye contact with the person whom you are talking to at the moment. _______

3. When you first enter the interviewer’s room, sit down. __________

4. ‘Tell me about yourself’ is an invitation for you to explain your strengths and work experience. ________

5. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question. ____

6. Ask a few other questions before you ask about pay. Money is important. But it is important to show that other things mean as much as money. _________

7. Arrive 5 minutes later. In this way you will show your self-confidence and independence. __________

8. Answer the question directly and honestly but always in a way that puts you in the best light. ______

9. If you were fired from your last job try to cover it up with a lie. __________

10. Do not make excuses for yourself. Employers prefer a positive attitude and display of self-confidence. _______

II. Explain the following advice in your own words.

1. Arrive at good time.

2. Be neat fairly conservative in your appearance.

3. Take cues from the interviewer on degree of formality.

4. Don’t talk in abstract.

5. Be prepares to make notes.

6. Be polite and friendly. Do avoid unnecessary personal disclosures.

7. Leave promptly when the interview is over.

III. Comment on the following answers. What’s wrong with them?

1. That last guy I worked for was a real bozo!

2. My boss was awful. You couldn’t do anything to make him happy. I’m glad I don’t have to work for that grouch any more.

3. Mr. Jones never gave me a chance.

4. School was school. I didn’t think it was all the great. The teachers were okay, I guess. I don’t like the homework, and sometimes classes were boring. I’d rather be busy doing something than listening to someone’s talk.