What to Expect During the Interview

Every interview that you attend is going to have a different look and feel to it.  Each Board Member will approach you and the process a bit differently.  Some are very formal, as you would expect for interviews in the Government or very large organizations.  Some might be a bit more casual, where a very small business is looking to add another employee.  Regardless of the type of interview you are attending, you have to remain professional, while maintaining a confident relaxed demeanour.

If this is a career change for you, you may be an experienced “interviewee”.  If you’re a new grad, this may be a brand new experience for you.  Either way, you can never be sure how the interview will proceed.

What can you expect when you arrive?

• Introductions – The Board will probably introduce themselves, perhaps tell you a bit about the organization or the job, and they may ask you to tell them a bit about you.  This will give you a chance to get a feel for the Interview Board and give you an opportunity to get yourself a bit grounded and relaxed.  Don’t forget.  You are going to be nervous, and that’s ok.  Everyone is nervous during an interview.  Use this time to take a few deep breaths and relax a bit.  But not too much!! Don’t become too casual.
• Scenario Based Questions – Some interviewers will use scenario based questions to assess your abilities, i.e. “You arrive for work to discover …. How will you handle this situation?”
• Personal Experience Questions – Some Boards will ask questions that involve your own work experiences, i.e. “Tell us about a time when you …”
• Personal Attributes– You may find the Board wants you to talk about your own personal attributes, qualities that you can bring to them, i.e. are you a team player, can you work independently, what are your strengths and weaknesses.  You should be prepared to talk about yourself.  Make sure you know what the job is about, and be prepared to talk about attributes you have to offer that are meaningful to this particular job.
• Questions – Many Interview Boards will ask you if you have any questions for them.  Don’t be afraid to ask some clarifying questions about the job or the company.  It demonstrates that you are interested.

Again, you can ask for help to prepare before you ever get to the interview.  Look for professionals or a career coach who have experience in a wide range of interview techniques.

What is the most important thing to remember?  Expect anything.  Every Board and interview will be different.  It’s up to you to prepare yourself for the unexpected and to be ready.  This is your chance to sell yourself.  You want to be the one that the Board remembers when it comes time to choose the successful applicant.