The following information was prepared by GPG Professional Job Centre. We at Soweto Urban deemed it fit to share this with you as a way of uplifting and tipping those who are going for interviews soon.
Best of luck to you all ahead of your job interviews and a BIG thank you to GPG for this detailed piece.
Interviews can be a bit tricky and nerve-racking. You have no clue what you are up against; therefore the best thing to do is to be as best prepared as you can be.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for that jittering interview:
1. Analyse the Job
Take time to analyze the job description, make sure that you have it. Analyze what the company is looking for in a candidate and prospective employee and make a list of the skills, knowledge, professional and personal qualities that are required by the employer and are critical for success in the job.
2. Make a match
Create a list of all your skills, qualifications, experience, knowledge and achievements to share with the interviewer. Make sure that these correlate directly with the skills and abilities required for the job. Review your list, and the job requirements, prior to the interview.
3. Research the company
Collect as much information as you can about the company and learn about them. The best place to get information is the company website.
4. Practice Interviewing
Develop standard possible questions you are likely to be asked during the interview and practice answering them. This will help give you a framework for your responses and help calm your nerves. Review common job interview question and answers and think about how you will respond so you are prepared to answer.
5. Get your interview clothes ready
Have an interview outfit ready to wear in advance. Regardless of the type of job you being interviewed for, it is vital to make a great first impression. When dressing for an interview for a professional position, dress accordingly in business attire. Be neat, tidy, and well-groomed to present a positive image to the employer.
6. What to bring to a job interview
It’s important to know what to bring to a job interview – a portfolio with extra copies of your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a list of references, and a list of questions to ask the interviewer. Do not take along your cellphone, a cup of coffee, gum, or anything else other than yourself and your credential.
7. Get Directions
It’s important to know where you need to go for your job interview – ahead of time. Use Google Maps or ask the HR for directions if you’re not sure where you are going.
If you have the time, it’s a good idea to do a practice run a day or two before the interview to avoid getting lost and arriving late to the interview. Arrive at the venue at least 30min or 15min earlier to compose yourself and calm your nerves.
8. Practice Interview etiquette
Proper interview etiquette is important. Remember to greet the receptionist, your interviewer, and everyone else you meet politely, pleasantly and enthusiastically.
During the interview watch your body language – shake hands firmly and make eye contact as you articulate your points.
Relax and lean forward a little towards the interviewer so you appear interested and engaged. Don’t lean back or slump in your chair. You will look too casual and relaxed.
Keep your feet on the floor and your back against the lower back of the chair. Pay attention, be attentive, and look interested.
9. Listen and Ask Questions
During a job interview, listening is just as important as answering questions. If you’re not paying attention, you’re not going to be able to give a good response. It’s important to listen to the interviewer, to pay attention, and to take time, if you need it, to compose an appropriate answer.
Also, be ready to engage the interviewer and ask questions. The interviewer may inform you in the beginning that you will be given a chance to ask questions at the end of the interview, make sure you ask questions related to the job you are being interviewed for.
Visit https://gpgprofessionaljobcentre.gpg.gov.za to view Gauteng Provincial Government vacancies and apply using the manual process by post and hand deliver to the address provided on the vacancy advert.
