Personal Interview II Tips and Strategies

Summary

This lecture on personal interviews (PIs) provides essential insights for final-year students preparing for job interviews. It explains the purpose of PIs, types of interviews, and common interview questions. Key tips for success include arriving early, bringing necessary documents, communicating honestly, and maintaining positive body language. The lecturer emphasizes the importance of research on the company and preparing for frequently asked questions. Overall, the presentation equips students with practical strategies to confidently navigate the personal interview process and make a strong impression.

Takeaways

• 😀 A personal interview (PI) is a one-on-one meeting between a potential employer and a job seeker to assess fit for a role.
• 📝 PIs allow employers to evaluate candidates beyond their resumes, gaining insights into their personalities and skills.
• 👥 There are various types of personal interviews, including one-to-one, group, stress, HR, technical, and remote interviews.
• 🔍 Interview questions can be categorized into three main types: technical, analytical, and behavioral.
• ⏰ Arriving 15-20 minutes early for an interview is crucial for composure and completing necessary formalities.
• 📄 Candidates should bring important documents like resumes and certificates to the interview.
• 🤝 Honesty in answers is essential; if uncertain about a question, it's acceptable to admit it.
• 💬 Effective communication involves both speaking confidently and listening attentively during the interview.
• 🌐 Researching the company beforehand helps candidates engage meaningfully and demonstrates their interest.
• 😊 Maintaining a positive attitude throughout the interview is important, as negativity can impact impressions.
• ❓ Preparing for common interview questions enables candidates to respond confidently and thoughtfully.

Q & A

What is a personal interview?

A personal interview is a meeting or interaction between a potential employer and a job seeker, aimed at assessing the candidate's fit for a job profile and the organization's work culture.

Why are personal interviews conducted?

Personal interviews are conducted to enable employers to know candidates beyond their resumes, assess their personality and job-related knowledge, and determine if they fit the organization's needs.

What are the different types of personal interviews?

The types of personal interviews include one-on-one interviews, group interviews, stress interviews, HR or behavioral interviews, technical interviews, and remote interviews conducted via phone or video platforms.

What are the three broad categories of interview questions?

Interview questions are generally categorized into technical questions, analytical questions, and behavioral questions.

What is a stress interview?

In a stress interview, candidates are placed in stressful situations to evaluate their ability to handle pressure and solve problems.

What are some effective tips for cracking a personal interview?

Effective tips include arriving early, carrying necessary documents, answering honestly, listening carefully, practicing mock interviews, maintaining good body language, dressing appropriately, researching the company, being positive, and preparing for frequently asked questions.

Why is body language important in a personal interview?

Body language is crucial as it conveys a candidate's confidence and professionalism; it includes gestures, posture, eye contact, and facial expressions, which the interviewer closely observes.

What role does preparation play in a personal interview?

Preparation is vital; candidates should anticipate frequently asked questions, understand their resumes, and have smart questions ready for the interviewer, demonstrating their interest in the position and organization.

What should candidates do to create a positive first impression?

Candidates should dress professionally, arrive on time, turn off their mobile phones, and maintain a pleasant demeanor throughout the interview.

What are some common questions asked during personal interviews?

Common interview questions include 'Tell us about yourself,' 'What are your strengths and weaknesses?' 'Why do you want this job?' and 'Where do you see yourself in five years?'