Pesewa Presentations

Objectives Understand what to expect from and how to prepare for a typical interview Increase knowledge of interview questions you might face, through asking and answering typical interview questions

Agenda Preparing for interviews Creating a positive impact Handling interview questions

Interview success depends on: Good preparation and research Creating a positive impact Strong answers to interview questions

Preparation Employer research – Website (not just careers pages) – Use links from CIB website – Business news – Contacts Preparation on yourself – Go through your application/CV – Evidence of how you meet criteria – Why do you want this role/company?

Creating a positive impact First impressions and body language - confident, calm, friendly, positive (the employer is thinking whether they can imagine you with one of their clients, will you fit in with the team?) But – be yourself

Interview Questions to expect Questions about your experience – Professional experience and achievements – Projects, technical expertise etc Competency questions – E.g. “Describe a time when …” – Gives evidence from your past experiences that shows whether you have the potential for the job

Interview Questions to expect Career motivation examples: – Why are you applying for the job? – Why are you interested in this company? – How do you see your career developing? – Why are you taking an MBA? – Why did you leave your last job? – What are you looking for in your next role? – Where do you see yourself in 5 / 10 years time?

Interview Questions to expect “Self reflection” questions – Such as: What has been your greatest achievement? What development needs do you have? Tell me about yourself. What skills can you bring to the job?…….. Business awareness – Knowledge of current business issues affecting the organisation and the sector

Interview Questions to expect Case study and problem solving questions (e.g. for consulting roles) – Listen carefully – Make notes (if applicable) – For case discussions - ask questions and don’t make assumptions – For “guesstimates” – show your assumptions and step by step process – Talk through your thought process – Show a logical approach – Take your time – Don’t panic!

When answering questions… Use your natural style of speaking, not a rehearsed script Ask for clarification or repetition if you are not clear what has been asked It’s OK to pause and consider your answer Listen carefully so that you can keep your answer focused

Exercise – Practising interview questions Work in pairs – interviewer and interviewee (you will take a turn at each role) 10 minute interview – select questions from sheet (you don’t need to use every question) 5 minute feedback / discussion Note down learning points or questions