Unit 3: Interviewing and Interrogation
Important Information About Your Interview: In The Public Sector
When an opening occurs in the Civil Service System, the top scorers are chosen for possible job appointments. And, for most positions, a personal interview will be required.
Naturally you will want to make a good impression and put your “best foot forward.” Try to be confident in your abilities and in yourself. If you don’t have confidence in yourself—then you can’t expect confidence and poise to be displayed by your bearing and noticed by the interviewer.
Good personal appearance, good dress and good grooming will go a long way towards creating that good impression you desire to make.
You will be asked questions and you should never lie during your interview! Remember, one of the most important abilities you should possess is the ability to get along with other people! No one wants to work very long with someone who is always dejected, unhappy, complaining, grouchy, etc.
The interviewer may ask some of the following questions :
Why do you want to be a ___________________ ?
Did you ever have any work experience that is the same or like this type of work?
Have you ever been fired or quit a previous job?
Do you get along well with other workers?
Are you willing to work within 30 miles of your home?
Be sure you have good answers to these questions and remember you are trying to show that you will be a good worker and a good person for that agency to employ.
Also, there is nothing wrong ( in fact, it would show that you are really interested in the job ) if you would like to ask the interviewer a question or two concerning the available position!
HERE ARE SOME SUGGESTIONS FOR GOOD RESULTS
1. First and foremost—BE ON TIME!
2. Be confident—but not to the point of being conceited.
3. Dress appropriately.
4. Speak clearly and in as pleasant, but as natural a voice as possible.
5. Be polite and express a good attitude and try to be normal, relaxed and not rigid.
6. Never quit TRYING.
7. Only shake hands if the interviewer extends his or her hand first. If you do shake hands, use a normal handshake, not too weak and not too strong.
8. Do not chew gum and do not smoke! If the interviewer says that you make smoke and you really want to do so—you are advised to merely say, “No, thank you!”
9. If you must declare some things about your past which are not good, then make certain you say that you have learned from your past mistakes and that they will NOT happen again.
10. Be sure to sincerely thank the interviewer for the interview and remember—you should only shake hands IF the interviewer extends his or her hand FIRST.