Typical interview structures
if invited for an interview it is important to
gather as much information as possible prior to
the interview about the format of the interview,
nature of questions, number of people
interviewing you, and indeed how you might
best prepare for it. if you have a general idea of
how the interview may proceed, you are more
likely to relax and give your best at each stage,
rather than feel on edge wondering about what
is coming next.
the following are common types of interviews,
however it is important to remember they are
only a guideline, and some interviewers can
deliver the unexpected.
The ‘get to know each other’
interview
this style usually occurs where there is a clear
indication that the first interview is only a lead-
in to a more formal hiring process.

c
P you are encouraged to talk about yourself.

c
P you are encouraged to build links between
yourself and the organisation -- why do you
At the interview
want to work for us?” what do you have to

c
P Be punctual!
offer us? what are your career goals?

c
P Be well groomed and neatly dressed

c
P the interviewer describes conditions of work,
in appropriate attire for the profession
such as hours of work, leave, and training.
you have chosen. don’t worry if the

c
P you are asked if you have any questions.
interviewer is dressed more casually
Prepare at least one or two.
than you are.

c
P Nerves are natural so just try to relax and
The behavioural interview
answer as confidently as possible. this style of interview is used by most medium

c
P smile!
and large businesses today. the interviewer

c
P speak clearly and look directly at the
is looking for evidence of past behaviour
interviewer while speaking.
that illustrate a particular competency or skill

c
P if you are unclear about any aspect of
set. this style is based on the premise ‘past
the process or about any question, ask
behaviour predicts future performance’.
for clarification.

c
P Questions will be typically prefaced by “Give

c
P emphasise the positive and play down
me an example of …” or “tell me about a
the negative.
time…”.

c
P Before the interview ends, make sure

c
P rehearse examples of previous situations
you know what the next steps of the
and events (that involve applying skills
selection process are (ie. when you are
sought in the position being interviewed
likely to hear from them about a further
for) -- making sure to demonstrate how you
interview or selection).
approached these situations, why you used

c
P thank the interviewer for his/her time.
that particular method or action and what
the outcome or achievement was.
[c o n t i n u e d o n n e x t p a g e]
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