THE JOB INTERVIEW

WHAT IS JOB INTERVIEW?

In the workforce, job interviews are conducted in order for an organization to select the right
candidate for a job. A job interview is a selection process used by organizations to help determine
whether a job candidate has the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to do the job. It may also be
used to see if there is a good fit between the applicant and organization from a standpoint of culture
and values. It could be done either on one-on-one style or with a panel of interviewers. The primary aim
is to assess whether to hire the applicant or not.

Interviewing is one of the most widely used tools for selecting would-be-employees. It is, in fact,
a very necessary undertaking of the hiring team. It gives the employer a firsthand opportunity to find
out about the job candidate’s work history, academic qualifications, growth and advancement
experiences, and other personal attributes that are seldom revealed in the resume or curriculum vitae.

TYPES OF INTERVIEW

1. UNSTRUCTURED INTERVIEW

An unstructured interview or non-directive interview is an interview in which questions are not

prearranged. These non-directive interviews are considered to be the opposite of a structured interview
which offers a set amount of standardized questions. The form of the unstructured interview varies
widely, with some questions being prepared in advance in relation to a topic that the researcher or
interviewer wishes to cover. They tend to be more informal and freer flowing than a structured
interview, much like an everyday conversation. This nature of conversation allows for spontaneity and
for questions to develop during the course of the interview, which are based on the interviewees'
responses. The chief feature of the unstructured interview is the idea of probe questions that are
designed to be as open as possible.

2. STRUCTURED INTERVIEW

A structured interview is a systematic approach to interviewing where you ask the same predetermined
questions to all candidates in the same order and you rate them with a standardized scoring system.
Within the general category of structured interviews is the situation interview, wherein the job seeker is
asked to respond to a specific situation he or she may face on the job. This type of questions is designed
to draw out more of the analytical and problem-solving skills of the applicant.

3. PANEL INTERVIEW

Panel interviews are conducted by a group of two or more interviewers. Typically, you'll be in a room
with several people who work at the company—these interviewers make up the panel. In some cases,
the panel will ask questions to multiple candidates at the same time.

Most likely, each interviewer in the panel will ask you at least one question. If there are multiple job
seekers, the interviewers might ask each applicant one question at a time.
 4. COMPUTER AND VIRTUAL INTERVIEW

Virtual interviews also known as digital or video interview is an interview that takes place remotely,
sometimes over the phone, but often using technology like video conferencing and other online
communication platforms. During a time when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the
federal government recommends people practice social distancing, it's become essential for both
human resources employees and candidates to learn how to perfect the virtual interview process.
Virtual interviews are often conducted much the same way as face-to-face interviews. That said, virtual
communication requires special considerations and adjustments due to the limited ability to read body
language and facial expressions.

COMMON JOB INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

 How would you describe yourself?

This is most likely the lead off question in an any interview session. This question gives the job
interviewer first-hand knowledge about you and personal attributes. Start by showcasing yourself, your
educational background, and other related job-personal personal information; most of all, say why you
think you are the perfect “match” the company needs.

 What made you want to work with us?

When you answer, remember to just stick to what is true. Make it a point to always put a genuine
feeling on your responses. It is better to give the interviewer the perception that you are very
determined to embraced opportunities rather than giving the idea that you are trying to get out of a bad
workplace condition.

 If we hire you, how could you help in the achievement of the company’s goals?

The interviewer will ask you about your qualities and traits that will qualify you for the job. Be ready to
explain why you are the company wanted to hire without sounding to pretentious.

 What are your reasons for leaving your previous job?

This is a very candid interview question. Clearly, the interviewer wants to know why you left your
previous job or your current position. The only way to respond this question is to tell the truth.
Additionally, the interviewer is trying to detect whether you are a loyal, reliable, and sensible person.

 What are your goals for the future? / What is your personal vision in life?

This question is intended to find out if you will stay with the company or resign as soon as you find a
better opportunity. Your goal in answering this question is to assure the interviewer of your
commitment and that your goal is to grow with the company.

ADDITIONAL POINTERS

 Prior to the interview sessions, study the company and the position you are applying for.
 Never allow your nerves win over you on interview day.
 Present yourself properly