JOB INTERVIEW

UNIT 2.0 JOB INTERVIEW

INTRODUCTION
Every interview you get is an indication that the hiring
committee is impressed by your application materials, and

How do I fit in the

organization?

thinks you might be a good fit for their needs. The purpose
of an interview is for the institution to find out whether you
would be a good fit for them, and for you to find out
whether the position is a good fit for you
(Gibson, 1992, p. 44).

An interview session is defined as a face to face meeting between two parties, the
interviewer (person who interviews) and the interviewee (person being interviewed) in
which the functions are to shortlist and select the most suitable candidate for a position.
Each party may consist of one or more individuals. The interviewers will study, evaluate
and analyze the candidates traits. These are all done through the interaction between
two parties. The interviewees attitudes, perception, values, language skills, manners,
performance, potentials, knowledge, commitment are all being assessed during the
interview.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
After completing the topic, students should be able to:
1. state the dos and the dont s of interview
2. list the strengths and weaknesses of oneself
3. differentiate the short term and long term preparation
4. use appropriate language to respond to questions asked
5. complete sentence with correct preposition
6. use related vocabulary in answering questions

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2.1 TYPES OF INTERVIEW

An interviewee should know beforehand the form of interview, the duration and
the number of interviewers. There are three possible forms of interview:

Panel Interview

The panel interview is an interview involving a small (or sometimes not so small)
group of people.
It is the companys chance to initially screen candidates by observing how

individuals behave and stand out among their peers.

The panel may comprise staffs from the area you are applying to, human

resource staffs or someone from another part of the organization.

Members of the panel may be designated roles in the interview one may ask

technical questions, one may observe, one may record, one may ask the difficult
questions and so on.
It is important to maintain eye contact during the interview, not only with the

person asking the questions, but also to other members of the panel.
Interviewers will also observe

Attire, manners body language

Communication skills

Group interaction and participation

Interview with two interviewers.

the two-interviewer is no more than small panel interview but this time two
interviewers involved

sometimes it is adopted specifically to test the candidate

the interviewers may adopt opposing roles, one is sympathetic and the other
confrontational. It is to test the candidates probable reaction to pressure in the
workplace.

One to one interviews

- One person controls the progress of the interview.
-

It is the form preferred by interviewees

This is usually the least stressful interview as you only

have to sell your knowledge, skills and attributes to one person

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It is more nearly resembles a conversation rather than

serious questions

Telephone interview

Telephone interview is often used as the initial interview if you are short listed for
a position in other state or a long distance from home

It is important to think about the impression you create when the interviewers
cannot see you.

Ensure that you will not be disturbed during your interview(i.e. turn off call
waiting)
2.2

PREPARING FOR AN INTERVIEW

Before you go for interview, make sure you really understand the duties or the
job you are seeking and know a bit about the company. You can obtain a
companys background through the internet, libraries or ask them to send you companys
brochures and background information. Once you received the interview letter, there are
several important steps that you must take to prepare yourself for the interview. You
should:
1. study the background of the company
2. prepare answers for possible questions
3. prepare your documents
4.

attire and personal grooming

Study the background of the company

It is very important for you to know the company that you wish to join so that if you are
asked any questions about the company during the interview, you would be able to
answer them knowledgably. Thus, impress the interviewers as you have taken the
trouble to find out information about the company. It is wise to find out details of the
position you have applied for, the scope of business, the companys prospects and the
benefits offered. You can find out such information by:
a) Reading books, journals or periodicals on the company that can be found in the
library.
b) Referring to brochure and annual report from the company itself
c) Talking to other employees in the company to obtain additional information

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Preparing answers for possible questions

Once you have the information about the company, the next step is to prepare answer
for possible questions you may be asked during the interview. The question asked during
the interview usually covers the following areas:
a) work experience
b) general background
c) education
d) reason for applying that particular post
e) qualities required for the job
f)

special skills, ability and talent

g) general interest and hobbies

h) general knowledge related to position and business
You should draw up a list of question that may be asked during the interview. Then, you
should prepare suitable answers for them. Practice these questions in front of a mirror or
with your friend in order to help you face the interview with calm and confident.
You should also prepare questions that you would like to ask the interviewers if you are
given the opportunity to do so. However, it is not wise to ask too many questions as this
might take up their time and irritate them. You may ask questions like the companys
policy, training programs, fringe benefits and salary.
Attire and personal grooming
It is very important to project a positive professional image when attending an interview.
You must be aware of the fact that you are often judged by the way you dress and look.
Therefore it is wise to pay intention to the clothes you intend to wear to the interview.
LADIES ATTIRE
1. Ladies should wear clothes that are suitable for work. Baju kurung or western
style clothes which are comfortable and project a professional image are
advisable.
2. A little make-up helps but it is not necessary.
3. Do not wear too many chains and rings.
4. Nails should not be too long or very brightly polished.
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5. Hair should be neatly combed or put up. The main aim is to project a professional
image.
MEN ATTIRE
1. Men should wear dark colored tailored trousers which are not too
baggy or too tight. Shirts should be in light pastel colors. Plain
shirts are advisable.
2. Ties should not be too colorful and distracting.
3. Wear conservative belt with plain buckle.
4. Dark socks and shoes are advisable. Shoes should be clean and
well polished.
5. Hair should be short and well groomed. Moustache and beards should be well
trimmed.
6. Accessories like rings or bracelets should be minimal and not worn if possible.

Handy Hints
Do

Enter the room confidently

Shake hands firmly and introduce yourself/ Speak clearly

Ask if you don't understand a question

Be polite and friendly look the interviewer straight in the eye as soon as you enter
the room

Look interested when asking questions as well as answering / Tell the truth

Provide full answer to the questions asked. Avoid yes and no answers

Provide examples to prove your achievements

Sell yourself by getting your good points across or be positive

Give a friendly smile (if you are in doubt don't. It is better to look serious than
insincere)

Don't

Sit until you are told to do so

Fidget and slouch when sitting in the chair

Smoke/ Swear/ Interrupt / Criticize former employers

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Draw attention to your weaknesses

Go over the top. Stay calm and stick to the facts

Preparing documents
The next step is getting your document ready. It is best to carry your document in a clear
folder. A clear folder allows you to flip through the pages neatly, search for any document
and hand over the whole file to the interviewers.
The interview letter usually state documents needed to be brought to the interview
session. If it is not stated, bring the following documents:
1. birth certificate
2. identity card
3. certificate of examination

4. other certificates such as computer, English course and etc.

5. testimonials (working or educational)
6. copies of any publication
You should arrange document neatly in the file, putting in the certificates of
your highest qualification first. For example:
1. KKTM diploma
2. SPM certificate
3. PMR certificate
4. Any other certificate
Do not carry fancy file in bright color or picture or singer or actors on the cover. This will
not project a professional image of a mature serious candidate.

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INTERVIEW ETTIQUETTE
Before attending an interview a candidate should prepare himself or herself several
things:
Know yourself
-

know your strength and weaknesses, your skills and interests

go through your documents (application letter, resume and application form)

Know and prepare the details

-

Be sure to remember the date, time and place of the interview.

Arrange all your certificates, testimonials and other documents appropriately in a

folder.

Keep up with the current news and happenings; be aware of general events in
the area or the world generally and things that could possibly affect the company.

Note down questions that you might like to ask your prospective employer.

Pay special attention to your appearance. Select clothes that are neat, clean,
comfortable and proper. Proper attire will contribute to additional points during the
interview.

Avoid fatigue or too much activity the day before. Do not spend a late night prior
to the interview.

Long term preparation

Know the job
-

Understand the job description. Talk to people doing the same type of job. Know
what subjects you had in your institute and which ones relate to the job you want.

List the skills and qualities needed and think about the evidence you can draw
from your experience to demonstrate that you have them.

If you can demonstrate that you know about the job the employer will believe you
when you say you are well suited to it.

Know the organization

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Find out as much as you can about the company or the firm which you are
seeking employment. For example: Visit the organisations website or get the
annual report.

Get the latest news for any stories about the organization or about their sector.

TASK 1: SELF ANALYSIS

Complete the following self-analysis questionnaire, designed by John Nicolson, a leading
expert in management skills. Work out your score using the specified points system.
After that, compare your results with that of your partner.
1.

I reckon I can do things as well as most people

2.

Its not easy being me

a fool of myself

4.

Its not often that I think of myself as a failure

5.

There are a lot of things about myself Id change if I could

6.

Im rarely bothered by other peoples criticism

7.

Other people tend to be more well-liked than I am

8.

If I have something to say, I usually go ahead and say it

9.

I dont often feel ashamed of anything I have done

3. When I have to make a presentation, Im terrified of making

10. When people say complimentary things about me I find it

hard to believe they really mean it

Score two points for each True answer to questions 1, 4, 6, 8 and 9; score zero for every False
answer. For questions 2, 3, 5, 7 and 10, score two points for each False answer; score zero for
each True answer.
The higher you score, the better the opinion you have of yourself. A score of 14 or more suggests
that you are quite confident; not necessarily conceited, but you certainly like yourself well enough,
and theres no danger of other people being made to feel uncomfortable by any sign of self-loathing
in you.
A score of 8 or less suggests that you have serious doubts about yourself and your value to the
world. It may of course be a temporary state of affairs - perhaps the result of some recent
misfortune. But if this is your normal condition, other people are bound to pick it up, and the risk is
that they will accept your low estimate of yourself and hence find it difficult to respect you.

TASK 2: STRENGTH AND WEKNESSES

Work with a partner. (Your partner should be someone whom you know very close). Fill
in the following chart about each other. Once you have finished, compare what you have
written about each other. Is what you have written about yourself, similar to what your
friend has written about you? You may use some of the words provided below.
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Strengths
outgoing
confident
enterprising
humorous
ambitious
helpful
forceful
competitive
responsible

Weaknesses
independent
thorough
tolerant
caring
prudent
focused
supportive
generous
friendly

nervous
arrogant
opportunistic
frivolous
ruthless
controlling
bullying
combative
introverted

impatient
obsessive
uncaring
nosy
indecisive
tunnel-visioned
interfering
irresponsible
careless

MYSELF
STRENGTHS
1. .
.................................................................

WEAKNESSES
1. .
...............................................................

2. .
.................................................................

2. .
...............................................................

3. .
.................................................................

3. .
............................................................

MY FRIEND
STRENGTHS
1. .
.................................................................

WEAKNESSES
1. .
...............................................................

2. .
.................................................................

2. .
...............................................................

3. .
.................................................................

3. .
...............................................................

TASK 3: FILL IN THE BLANKS

Read the profile and fill in the blanks with appropriate words from the box below.
I am twenty years old and am studying at the polytechnic. I am an ..........................
person as I am involved in sports and club activities. Because my fellow students think
that I am .......................... and .........................., they have twice elected me as the
President of the Computer Club. Being the secretary of the Career Guidance Club, I
have to be .........................., ..........................and .........................., as the position
requires me to interact with the public and organise career talks.
Being the eldest in a large family I had to help my parents take care of my six younger
siblings. This has taught me to be .......................... and ........................... But being a
very active person I find that I need to improve on ........................... Sometimes I do not
have enough time for my studies. I am also quite .........................., especially when it
comes to speaking in front of an audience. I realise that I am .......................... in
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English. But I have really tried to improve myself in the last two years. In fact, I am
currently attending extra classes at the polytechnic to improve my speaking skills.
nervous
well-organised prudent
independent
pro-active
outgoing
trustworthy
weak
indecisive
combative
tolerant
active
Now, using the profile above as a guide, write a brief profile

time-manangement
independent
responsible
of yourself. Outline your

personal qualities and highlight your strengths and weaknesses. You may use some of
the words in the previous tasks in your description. Write your profile in the space
provided below:
A Profile of Myself
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................

TASK 4 : GUIDELINES FOR INTERVIEW

Before the interview it may be useful for you to make a summary of what you have to
offer. The following guidelines will help you with your summary.
You must know:

to whom you are writing your potential employer

what they would want in a candidate

what they are interested in

who your key competitors are

what can you offer that your competitors cannot

The following is a summary made by a candidate who is going to attend a job interview
at Moon FX Sdn. Bhd., Kuala Lumpur.
Company:

Moon FX Sdn. Bhd., Kuala Lumpur

Product/Service:

Film with Animation and its design production

Position/Function:

Animator

1. What is the most important thing I want this employer to know about me?
I have good skills in film with animation design, editing and publishing.
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2. What is the second most important thing I want this employer to know about
me ?(This could support and/or broaden your introductory statement)
I have good experience in animation production and had experienced as
lightman.
3. Key selling points:
(statements / accomplishments that support / prove the first two statements)
1. I did a three-year diploma course in Digital Film with Animation Design at
KKTM Rembau.
2. I did a six-month industrial training at FINAS assisting the director to edit
the cartoon characters and Malay animated series.
3. I have worked for one year at LesCopaque Production at the Publishing
Department.
4. Statement of why they should be interested in me / what makes me different
from others?
I have the qualifications and experience required for the job. I have
worked in a similar capacity before. I have the web design and publishing
skills.
5. Any objection the interviewer might bring up and how I will handle it:
Possible Objection: Why did I left my first job.
How to handle:
I left my first job to further my studies at the KKTM
Rembau
Now, read the job advertisement from a newspaper and make a summary of what you
have to offer
Company: .................................................................
Product/Service: .......................................................
Position/Function: .....................................................
1. What is the most important thing I want this employer to know about me?
................................................................................................................................
.
2. What is the second most important thing I want this employer to know about
Me? (This could support and/ or broaden your introductory statement)
................................................................................................................................
.
3. Key selling points:
(statements / accomplishments that support / prove the first two statements)
1. ....................................................................................................................
2. ....................................................................................................................
4. Statement of why they should be interested in me / what makes me different
from others?
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.............................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
5. Any objection the interviewer might bring up, and how I will handle it:
.............................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
2.3
PARTICIPATING IN INTERVIEWS
TASK 1: PRE READING
Match the words with its correct definition. Use a dictionary to help you
How do you think you can make a contribution to our company?
What motivates you most in a job?
Why should we hire you rather than another candidate?
How do you solve difficult problems?
Do you prefer to work under supervision or on your own?
What are your career goals?
Describe your ideal job.
How do you feel about the possibility of relocating?
What does a typical day in the post entail?
How do I fit in the organization?
Words

Definitions
to choose something rather than something else; to like something
better:
your purpose or aim:
the best possible; perfect
to make somebody want to do something, especially something
that involves hard work and effort:
transfer to another place
something that you give, especially money or help, or do together
with other people:
having or showing the usual qualities of a particular person, thing
or type
to find a way of dealing with a problem or difficult situation:
to make something necessary; to involve something
to give somebody a job for a short time
to be able to live, work, etc. in an easy and natural way

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Types of Questions
It is important to identify different types of questions in an interview. Answering
questions appropriately will increase your chance of getting the job.
There are about five different types of questions that you need to be familiar with. The
types of questions are:
Open: where you need to explain something and give more than a simple yes or no
answer. member to keep your answers between 30 seconds and 2 minutes long if
possible.
Closed: questions which can be answered with yes or no.
Hypothetical: questions which put you in an unusual or imaginary situation to test how
you might cope, and to reveal something about your personality or your approach to
problem-solving.
Leading questions: where the interviewer seems to be trying to make you give a
particular answer, eg Youre too young for this job arent you?, or I expect you prefer
working in a team, dont you?
Problem-solving: eg How many sheep are there in the UK? Youre not expected to
know the answer. The interviewer wants to know if you have ideas about how to find the
answer.
Classic questions are questions which are frequently asked in a meeting.
Here are some of the most popular interview questions:
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Tell me about yourself.
Tell me about your career up to now.
Why do you want this job?
Why do you want to work for us?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
What do you do in your spare time?
What salary are you looking for?
What do you know about our organization?
Closed questions
These are questions which you can answer with yes or no. Closed questions are used
to confirm something. Sometimes, interviewers use closed questions when they actually
want you to say more than simply yes or no. So, you need to think about what the
question is really asking you. For example, if youre asked Have you helped increase
sales in your current job?
You can answer this with yes or no. But the interviewer really wants you to give an
example of how you did this.
Dont be afraid to answer some questions with yes or no. You dont always need to
explain things in detail.
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Examples:
Would you be able to work late if required?

Can you touch-type?

Open questions
These are questions which allow you to describe or explain something in detail.
You cant answer these questions with a simple yes or no.
The danger with open questions is that you might talk for too long.
Remember the time rule:
Keep your answers to between 30 seconds and 2 minutes long if possible.
Open questions usually start with How, Why, Describe, Explain etc.
Examples:
Tell me about yourself.
How did you get into this line of work?
Explain how you managed to deal with an angry customer.
Hidden questions
Dont take the questions youre asked in an interview just at face value. Ask yourself
Whats this question getting at?, and
What does the interviewer really want to know?
For example, if youre asked
Tell me about your old bosss weaknesses.
The interviewer isnt really interested in your boss. They want to know if youre the kind
of employee who goes around bad-mouthing people. Because, if you do it in an
interview, youll do it to your new boss too!
Remember your answers tell the interviewer a lot about you and your personality - so
always think about the question before you speak
Multiple questions
This type of question has two or more questions rolled into one. For example:
Why do you want to leave your current job? Whats wrong with it?
Interviewers ask multiple questions to see if you can deal with different things at the
same time.
Listen to the question carefully so you know how many questions you have to answer.
You dont always need to answer multiple questions in the order youve been asked
them. For example, you might say:
Theres nothing wrong with my job. I enjoy all aspects of it very much. But there
hasnt been any promotion in my department now for more than 3 years, and I feel
Im ready for more responsibility.
Hypothetical questions
These are questions about imaginary situations, or unusual tasks or activities. Youre
unlikely to have done them before in your work, and you might think they have nothing to
do with the job youre applying for. For example, questions like:
Imagine youre going to live on a desert island. What would you take with
you? or What would you do if you won the National Lottery and didnt have to
work?
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Questions like these are used to show the kind of person you are, or how you go about
approaching tasks. For example, taking perfume to a desert island doesnt show youre
very practical or realistic.
Difficult questions
Different questions are difficult for different people. A question which seems easy to me,
may be very difficult for you.
The more you practice with this programme, the easier youll find all questions. Use our
hints to help you prepare answers to the ones you find most difficult.
If you dont know how to answer a question, ask the interviewer to rephrase it or explain
a bit more about it. Most interviewers will be happy to repeat a question, or give you
some help by explaining it.
If you think a question is illegal, such as a question about your religion or trade union
membership, tell the interviewer that youre not sure how the question relates to your
ability to do the job, and ask them to explain. In most cases, the interviewer will move on
to another question.

TASK 2: FLOW CHART

Fill in the flow chart below with details from the given article.

TASK 3: MATCHING
Match the two parts of the sentences used in respond to the interview questions
I have six siblings
Im able to
I prefer to work

work overtime
I see myself as a manager
and my parents are working.

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Im keen on
In five years time
I would be glad if
I can handle
If Im given the responsibilities I
Meeting deadline is not a problem
I think I

I am given opportunities to further my studies

I can get full cooperation from my team members.
will make sure it will be carried out accordingly
can work independently
am a creative and responsible person
alone
any problems without any difficulties

TASK 4: PREPOSITION
Complete the sentences by choosing the correct preposition.
1. Tell me (of / about) yourself.
2. Why did you choose to interview . (with / by) our organization?
3. What do you consider (on / to) be your strengths?
4. Have you ever had any failures? What did you learn (from / for) them?
5. .. (Of / On) which three accomplishments are you most proud?
6. What motivates you most . (in / with) a job?
7. Have

you

had

difficulty getting .(along / by)

with

a former

professor/supervisor/co-worker?
8. Have you ever spoken (before / after) a group of people? How
large?
9. What do you know . (about / of) our organization (products or
services)?
10. How do you think you can make a contribution ... (to / for) our company?
11. Give me an example .. (from / of) your experience working as part of a
team.
12. Do you prefer (to / on) work under supervision or on your own?
13. Describe how you are able to work ..(in / on) several assignments at once?
14. How do you feel .(about / of) working overtime?
15. Do you plan to return (from / to) school for further education?
TASK 5: FILL IN THE BLANKS
Choose words from the box provided to complete the passage.
tie
best

necessary
responsibilities

embellish
related

positive
description

honest

requirements

When you are asked questions to your current or previous

positions, it's important to be specific and to be . about what you did in your
previous position(s). The way to respond is to describe your ..
in detail and to connect them to the job you are interviewing for. Try to .. your
responsibilities in with those listed in the job .. for the new position.
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That way, the employer will see that you have the qualifications . to
do the job. Focus most on your responsibilities that are directly related to the new job's
... It's also important to be ... Don't . your job,
because you don't know who the hiring manager will be checking with when they check
your references.

TASK 6: READING COMPREHENSION

JOB INTERVIEW
A job interview is one of the most important events in ones life. If it is your first, the
importance increases. How does one pull it off with out nervousness or fear? One of the
key things people forget when they go into an interview is that staying cool is the best
option. Be relaxed and prepared the best answers. What is the fear when all the
knowledge

you

ever

need

has

been

already

taught

you?

Often, people lose in the interview because they are panic stricken at the last moment.
Why does this happen? Well, thinking about the future. The foremost thought running
through a lot of our minds before the interview is that if we do not succeed then what will
happen? Where will I get the next job? These negative thoughts make us nervous and
enable to answer the simplest of questions. So being positive is a crucial point before
going to a job interview Before the interview, may be a day before, remember to mentally
rehearse the interview from your own perspective: When you are pleased with the
imagined performance you are producing, step inside the image of yourself and run
through the scenarios again as if YOU are now doing it. See, feel and hear it as if it is
really happening. This time, you are looking out into the world from your own eyes, so
your arms are directly in front of you with people facing you, as you feel your clothes on
your body. Allow it all to unfold in great detail - make it as real as possible by letting your
imagination free to create a rich and colorful panoramic view of a successful day.
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Finally, pay special attention again to feelings, really spend time imagining yourself
feeling exactly the way you want to feel, and then go get the job! It is a proven fact that
visualizing your success can get you exactly that. If you think of negative things, then
you

will

be

bound

to

get

that.

Like anything in life it takes time to get really good at mental rehearsal. Using this
visualization technique for twenty minutes a day will train your brain to perform new
behaviors. The results will astound you. Judge mental rehearsal by trying it out in the
real world and decide for yourself how effective it can be. Use it to prepare for those
crucial job interviews and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from knowing that you are
performing

at

your

very

best.

Eventually you will be able to use this approach in day-to-day situations on the spur of
the moment by focusing on using the power of your imagination. Imagination is the gift
an individual has got. Use it today for your success and the stepping stone to a new
future with brighter prospects!
Answer the questions based on the article given.
1. How does one stay cool in an interview?
________________________________________________________________
2. Why do people fail in interview?
________________________________________________________________
3. State one example why people panic in an interview.
________________________________________________________________
4. Why should one do to overcome nervousness when attending an interview?
________________________________________________________________
5. The result will astound you means
________________________________________________________________
6. What is mental rehearsal?
________________________________________________________________
7. In your own words, why mental rehearsal is important?
________________________________________________________________
8. List down tips given when attending an interview.
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________

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Guide on questions to be expected during the job interview session.

There Are No Tricky Questions!
The interviewer will have a range of sample job interview questions to ask you, some will
be in relation to the job but others will be more on you. Interview questions are intended
to find out more about you as an individual and a professional within your field; what
makes you tick and what kind of person you are generally. Most importantly, do bear in
mind that interviewers actually want you to succeed and there are no trick questions
intended
to
unsettle
you.
If you were an employer you will naturally want to know things about the candidate that
will benefit your company. Is the candidate motivational, a leader, strong willed,
competitive, assertive, a forward thinker or a lateral thinker; and so on.

Be Prepared For Questions Based On Your Psychometric Test Report

As previously mentioned, many employers will draw information from psychometric tests
and some of their questions will come from your report that is if they conducted a test
with you. See the section on having your own psychometric test prior to an interview.
This section highlights the importance of knowing your own profile report before
interviews for better performance and enhanced CVs (resumes).
Expect the Unexpected
During job interviews, you should be prepared to answer any type of question from the
interviewer and also expect the unexpected question. As always, one of the most
important elements of a successful job interview is to answer questions positively in a
calm and relaxed manner. Try to turn any question to your advantage by aligning it
positively
to
your
strengths
and
aims.
Although the interviewer is keen to hear positive answers from you, your body language
will either affirm or contradict your answers, so be sure to read the importance of good
body language during a job interview.
TASK 7: FILL IN THE BLANKS
Fill in the flowchart with details from the given article.
How to Answer Job Interview Questions
Guide on questions to expect at a job interview

What interviewer
wants?

What is
psychometric test?

.
EDARAN DALAMAN KKTM SRI GADING
SAHAJA

Turn any questions

to your advantage.

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JOB INTERVIEW

TASK 8: FILL IN THE BLANKS

Tips on effective preparation with good job interview questions and answers
No matter how experienced and skilled you are, your career progression depends largely
on how you handle and answer job interview questions. While some interview questions
may appear overly direct, the intention nevertheless is always the same. Irrespective of
how they might phrase questions, interviewers simply want to find out if you are really
the
best
candidate
for
the
job.
Persuading the interviewer that you are the best candidate for the job will require
knowledge of types of commonly asked questions, the reason behind them, and dealing
with them effectively with appropriate answers. Here, we take a look at some typical
questions along with appropriate answers for securing jobs.
Q.
A.

Tell me about yourself

Very common opening question. This is your opportunity to positively introduce
yourself. Focus on your career history, mention previous jobs, qualifications, skills and
achievements.

Your answer:
...
...
Q.
A.

Tell me about your main strengths

Focus on your skills, experience and other positive contributions you can bring to the
job and the company.

Your answer:
...
...
Q.
A.

What are your weaknesses?

Try to turn this type of question to your advantage. Be brief and focus on work related
issues. Highlight a trait which the interviewer will perceive as a strength. For example,
your unusually keen attention to precise details and regular habit of expecting the same
from colleagues.

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Your answer:
..
...............................
...............................
Q.
A.

Why did you apply for the job?

Ideally this answer ought to be along the lines that the job offers an opportunity for
career progression and new challenges. Also highlight skills and experience you can
offer the company. By researching the company, show your knowledge, perhaps adding
how much you would like to work for them because of their corporate philosophy,
organisational structure etc. This will impress the interviewer.

Your answer:
...
..................................
..................................
Q. Why do you want to leave your current employment?
A. Take care not to personalise any grievance. Be professional and explain candidly along
the lines that you are simply furthering your career for greater challenges and
professional attainment.
Your answer:
.
..................................
..................................
Q.
A.

Tell me what you know about our company

This is where prior research of potential employers bears fruit. This an excellent
opportunity to show you are keen about the job and the company.

Your answer:
..
...................................
...................................
Q.
A.

Where do you see yourself five years from now?

Here the interviewer really wants to know how the company can benefit from the plans
you have for yourself. Mention your desire for career advancement, taking on new
challenges and greater responsibility.

Your answer:
.
.
.............................................................................................................
....
TASK 9: RELEVANT QUESTIONS
During an interview a candidate may ask the interviewers relevant questions. The
examples are:
1. What are the career opportunities for someone entering this position?
2. What are the strengths of the organization or department?
3. What kind of orientation or training is available to new employees?
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4. How big is the department? What are some of other offices with whom I would
work?
5. To whom would I be reporting and what kind of communication channels are
there?
6. What are the long ranges plans of this organization?
7. What are the prospects for promotions in the future?
8. In what areas of the organization do you expect growth?
9. Is there an opportunity to transfer from one division to another?
10. How long was my predecessor in this position? Why did she / he leave?
Note: Do not show too much interest in salary, bonuses and benefits. This will indicate
that a candidate is only interested in benefits.

TASK 10: REARRANGE

Rearrange the following words to form appropriate questions.
1. are/ main/ What/ responsibilities/ my?

2. will/ Who/ report/ I /to ?

3. report/ me/ Who/ will/ to ?

4. department/ How/ fit/ do/ I/ the/ in?

5. fit /How/ I/ in the/ do/ organization ?

6. main/ What /the /organization's /is /goal ?

7. is/ long/ What/ plans/ the/ organization's/ term?

8. provisions/ What/ acquisition/ there/ for/ are/ skills ?

9. What /within /career /organization /progressions/ the/ this /does /job/ entail ?

10. does/ this/ How/ differ/ competitors/ from/ organization/ its?

Underline the correct form of tenses from the below questions.

1. What is/ are your weaknesses?
2. Why did you apply/ applied for the job?
3. Why do/ does you want to leave your current employment?
4. Where does/do you see yourself five years from now?
5. How long have/ has you been looking for a job?
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6. How did you find/ found out about our company?

7. Do you like work/ working in large groups?
8. Do you work/ working well under pressure?
9. Do you wanting/ want to accept a position for which you are obviously
overqualified?
10. What is/ are your short-term objectives?

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