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Resources for job seekers

• Professionally Prepared Resume & Cover Letter
• DIY Resume
• DIY Cover letter
• Interview tips
• Interview questions
• Job seeker support

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Career progression advice

• How to find your next job opportunity
• Identify an employer of choice
• Make yourself invaluable
• Know your rights

Interview questions

Interviewing is an integral part of your recruitment process. It provides businesses with the opportunity to learn about your work experience, education, and interpersonal abilities, as well as personal characteristics such as enthusiasm and ability to handle pressure that is rarely conveyed in resumes. Interviews provide you with the opportunity to meet the employer and enquire about various aspects of company operations, culture and expectations.

There are three steps that make up an interview, firstly introduction questions, then background information check, followed by depth questions about your previous experience.  Remember once all interview questions are finished it’s your turn to ask the questions.

Step 1

This first part of your interview is the introduction questions that are designed to get you talking and allows the interviewer to gather an understanding of who you are. Don’t be afraid to let some personality shine through and make sure you prepare good examples about yourself. For example:

• Tell me about yourself?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• How would you describe yourself?
• What motivates you?

Step 2

The second step delves into your past, checks your background information, reasons for leaving and applying for this position.  For example:

• Describe your daily responsibilities in your current (last) position?
• What are (were) your reasons for leaving?
• What do (did) you like best about your current (last) position?
• What are your salary expectations?
• When are you available for another interview?
• How much notice are you required to give?

Step 3

This step requires answers that have more depth and gives you the opportunity highlight your achievements and experiences. The interviewer uses these questions to assess your potential for success. For example:

• What is best environment you work in?
• Describe your major strengths/attributes?
• Describe how you work as part of a team?
• What areas do you feel you need to improve in?
• Why do you think you are suited to this position?
• What are your professional goals over the next 1-5 years?

Your questions

Remember after the interviewer has finished it is your turn to ask your own questions and make sure each question counts. For example:

• Why is this position open?
• What are the key requirements for the position?
• How is performance measured?
• Are there any areas that you would like me to expand on?
• Do you feel fit the requirements for the position?