Photographic illustration of an interview panel

The Interview—Hints and tips


Many people find the interview the most stressful part of the selection process. However remember you got shortlisted for the position because those looking at your application think you may have the right skills and experience and could be the right fit for their position. Even if you currently feel you don’t do well at interview, you can make a lot of improvements to increase your chances of success.

Most interviewers will use the behavioral style of interviewing which looks to past experience as a future predictor of success. For some  examples of the type of questions that might be asked refer to the list of example Interview Questions in the Recruiters’ portal of our website.

The “Do’s”

  • Prepare, prepare, prepare.
  • Research the area/organization, the job and context.
  • You were shortlisted for the position so be proud and confident of what you have to offer.
  • Based on the selection criteria, think of all the questions you could be asked and prepare your responses to them with one or two good examples on hand for each. The positions description and your initial job application will help in this regard.
  • Practice articulating your responses, as this is very different from how you might have written responses in your initial job application.
  • Do practice answering various questions, in front of a mirror, with family or anyone who will listen.
  • Do listen carefully to what the interviewers says and frame your answers accordingly.
  • Do project yourself with a sense of purpose, direction and in a positive manner.
  • Do follow the interviewer’s leads and prompts, reading when your answer is going on too long or when further information is needed to expand on a point being made.
  • Do seek clarification, if not sure of the question being asked or to check if you have answered the question correctly.
  • Do take time to draw breath and answer the questions thoughtfully and with reflection and don’t be afraid of silences.
  • Do always indicate your interest in the job for which you are being interviewed.
  • Do ask questions when given the opportunity.
  • Do take advantage of the opportunity to add anything else in your favour when you get the chance.

The “Don’ts”

  • Don’t answer questions with a simple “yes” or “no” answer. Give good responses and explain yourself where possible by referring to relevant examples from your experience.
  • Don’t respond in a general, vague manner. If unsure of the question just ask for clarification.
  • Don’t over answer questions.
  • Don’t ever make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers
  • Don’t lie, as it usually comes back to bite you but answer questions truthfully frankly and as close to the point as possible.
  • Don’t pretend that you have never made a mistake, but focus on the positive outcomes and learning experiences not on the negative.