Interview Skills 101 by Vicki Chamberlin - Part 1
Are you prepared for your job search journey? Want to know how to perfectly answer those tough interview questions and leave a good impression?
Who better to share some interview tips and tricks than Vicki Chamberlin, Summer of Tech Mentor and Operations, People and Culture Manager at Quantum Security? Vicki has extensive experience in the hiring process. She has a passion for finding suitable candidates for the right roles while ensuring everyone involved has a great experience.
How interviews work
Why do we do them
Employers interview to find out more about you as a person, your skills, knowledge, and attitude. They want to find out if you are a good fit for their role. As a candidate, you should also be doing the same, finding out about who they are, how they work and ensuring the role is a good fit for you!
Types of interviews
More common interview formats are phone interviews, speed interviews, individual interviews, group interviews, case study discussions, assessment day, etc. Interview types vary from employer to employer. Be sure to take note of an employer's interview process if you are interested in their role. If you are unsure, ask the employer to clarify their process.
Interview format
Arrival and small talk - The interview starts as soon as you get there. Be aware of every person you interact with; remember they all work for the company you want to be employed by.
Introduction - Generally, the employer/s will introduce themselves, the company and the role you have applied for.
Questions from the interviewers - This should be a back and forth conversation where employers ask interviews questions, questions about your CV and potentially technical questions.
Opportunity to ask questions - Make the most of this time to ask questions about the company and the role.
Conclusion - The employer should outline the next steps in their recruitment process and when you can expect to hear back from them.
Interview questions
Tell us about yourself?
This is one of the most common questions. Employers are asking for a basic introduction with this question, and they want a quick taster of who you are and why you are there. To prepare for this question, you can create an elevator pitch.
In your elevator pitch;
Talk about your background (work or study)
Mention your area of study and interests, both personal and professional.
Talk about your skills and experience
And tell them your goals
Aim to keep your pitch between 30-60 seconds; it needs to be short and sharp. Remember to practice and deliver it with enthusiasm!
Why are you interested in this role?
Why do you want to work in this industry?
What makes you want to work for this company?
You can prepare for these three common questions with pre-interview research. Look into the role you are applying for to understand what you would be doing. With this information, you can explain why you are excited about the role and the industry.
When researching the company, you want to know who they are, what they offer, their values, and company culture. You can think about what the company could offer you and what you could offer the company.
Tell us about a time when you…
This is a very common behavioural question; this question gives employers an understanding of how you deal with real-world problems. Prepare for these questions by using the STAR method;
S - Describe a SITUATION you were in
T - Describe the TASK you had to do
A - Describe the ACTION you took
R - Describe the RESULTS of your actions
Read Part 2: Interview Skills 101 by Vicki Chamberlin - Part 2