*Employer Resource* Preparing for Interviews

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Establishing an interview structure helps to ensure that all information is gathered from the interviewee in the limited timeframe without overlooking critical pieces of information, or becoming sidetracked by a candidate.

A typical structure starts with an outline of the company and what the role involves. This is followed by posing a series of questions to the candidate, then asking the candidate if they’d like to ask any questions of their own.

Open the discussion by explaining to candidates how the interview will progress. This keeps everyone working on the same page and eliminates surprises that could throw an otherwise strong candidate off track. Don’t forget to end the process by advising of the ‘next steps’.

A strong employer interview doesn’t have to centre on tough questions – though planning questions in advance is important. If you get stuck with some interview questions, check out some sample ones below:

  • Why do you want this job? – what are their needs/motivation
  • What do you know about the company? – have they applied themselves
  • What do you think makes you a good candidate? – what they think is expected
  • What are your strengths? – what areas are they already good at
  • What are your weaknesses? – will you need to invest in them
  • What is your greatest professional achievement? – their expectations vs’ yours
  • Why should we hire you? – see how they sell themselves
  • How do you deal with challenges? – problem resolutions, team player?
  • What is your dream job? – can this fit your business plans
  • Where do you see yourself in 5 years? – what hopes and plans do they have
  • Do you have other interviews planned? – do you need to move fast on this one
  • Why do you want to leave your current role? – potential problems here
  • Why were you fired? – if applicable – what to prepare for
  • What package are you looking for? – get to know everyones expectations
  • How do you manage your time or diarise? – successful planner
  • How would your current boss describe you? – held in high-regard
  • What is family life like for you? – family plans
  • How much experience do you have in X? – learn their skill set
  • What do you and don’t you enjoy about your job? – will they need support
  • Can you tell me a little about yourself in/out work? – get to know who you’re talking too