How to nail that big job interview

YOU’RE past the application stage, now comes the hard part – the interview.

The Cairns Post has asked FNQ recruiters to share their top tips for jobseekers on what to do (and what not to do) to nail your interview.

Pre-recruitment managing director Gayleen Toll said employers are always looking for three things – can you do the job, will you fit in and will you stay?

“All the questions that you will be asked during the interview should be guided toward one of these three factors,” she said. “First, carefully think about all your past positions and write down all the positive achievements and learning experiences that you enjoyed.

“Second, analyse the reasons you left your previous roles and ask yourself would you be satisfied with these reasons if you were the potential employer.”

Ms Toll suggested asking questions about your supervisor and the department such as:

■ How long have they been with the company?

■ What is the style of management?

■ What did they like most about the previous employee?

■ How can you improve on the performance of the previous employee?

Principal consultant at Cairns recruitment agency Signature Staff Mats Eriksson came up with three things to avoid saying at an interview.

■ Sorry I’m late: Being late shows lack of care and discipline, it can be very hard to recover from that first impression.

■ Telling lies: A skilled interviewer will find out fairly quickly if they suspect that you are not truthful – and that is the end of your interview.

■ Mind if I take this call? Turnoff-your-phone before you walk in!