Preparing for your interview
A job interview is your opportunity to demonstrate to the interview panel that you are the right candidate for the role. The panel want to understand the skills and experience you would bring to the role, as well as your personal attributes.
The better prepared you are, the more relaxed and comfortable you will be when the interview questions begin. The following tips will assist you in preparing for your interview.
- Homework - Do some research about CSU and the area where the job is located
- Review the selection criteria - Consider the questions that the panel might ask and prepare some answers. Provide examples: describe the situation and tasks required, action taken and result
- Questions - Prepare some questions to ask the panel about the position or CSU generally
On the day
Thorough preparation should leave you feeling calm and ready for your job interview. Here are some tips to see you through the interview.
- Don't be late - Reduce your stress levels and get there early.
- Remember – Everything you do from the moment you arrive is a reflection of you and how you behave and interact with others.
- Make eye contact - Look at the person who is talking to you and when answering questions.
- Listen – Listen carefully to the question. If you don't understand it, ask the interviewer to repeat it.
- Give concise answers – Your answers should be concise and include the key points you wish to make. Don't waffle or answer with a straight "yes" or "no".
- Be honest – Represent your skills and experience honestly.
- Be genuine – The panel want to see who you really are, so while it is important to be professional, it is also important to be yourself.
- Portfolio – Where appropriate bring a portfolio of your work.
- Notes – It is acceptable to have brief notes or dot points to refer to during the interview and to take notes yourself.