Interview Advice

Author
Discussion

Jim H

Original Poster:

786 posts

188 months

Friday 27th February 2015
quotequote all
Appreciate it will have been done to death here. I don't visit this section of PH often.
Maybe someone knows some oft-quoted links? But each interview must be subjective?

The gist of it is I've been invited for a competency based interview, the employer has provided me the 'framework' of where I will be asked to give examples of my suitability/experience.

I sat a similar scenario (internal with my current employer last year - with presentation - failed.
I've been with my current employer 12 and half years, this is the first external company I have a applied to in that history.

The role/vacancy is very similar to my current role, probably why I've been selected.

I've got plenty of examples of where I can provide evidence where I believe I can demonstrate the ability/experience/suitability etc which the employer is looking for.

I'm looking for advice for that extra 'edge'.

Interview in 7 days. Hair cut today, have v smart and expensive clothing from my last interview (maintained) know all about firm hand shake, bum pushed far back in seat, eye contact etc...

Struggled to choose a new tie today, once heard gold signified a 'winner' or have I been out of the game too long?

Any advice would be welcome..

WindsorRob

663 posts

251 months

Friday 27th February 2015
quotequote all
In my experience competency based in largely about preparation. I would think about 4 or 5 scenarios that you've been involved in, that you can then use as examples for different questions. The star model can be handy to give structure to your answers. Situation, task, approach, result. Think about whether the job is largely delivery or leadership, if the latter it's how you get your team to do the right things. As for edge, a tricky one as all employers different. Think about some challenging questions back e.g. What is it about this role that will attract and keep strong people?

Just my thoughts, I'm always cautious to caveat that interview scenarios can differ massively. A deeply flawed process IMO, you just have to play the game!

Jim H

Original Poster:

786 posts

188 months

Sunday 1st March 2015
quotequote all
WindsorRob said:
In my experience competency based in largely about preparation. I would think about 4 or 5 scenarios that you've been involved in, that you can then use as examples for different questions. The star model can be handy to give structure to your answers. Situation, task, approach, result. Think about whether the job is largely delivery or leadership, if the latter it's how you get your team to do the right things. As for edge, a tricky one as all employers different. Think about some challenging questions back e.g. What is it about this role that will attract and keep strong people?

Just my thoughts, I'm always cautious to caveat that interview scenarios can differ massively. A deeply flawed process IMO, you just have to play the game!
Hi Rob,
Thanks for your reply and advice. The recruiter has advised they will be looking for two examples based on the star model you mention.
I guess the role is delivery and leadership, the role is engineering planning with additional responsibilities of managing a small team of two.

Troubleatmill

10,210 posts

158 months

Sunday 1st March 2015
quotequote all
The STAR system works well.

But there are also some techniques you can throw into the conversation that lead the discussion where you want it to go.

I've sent you a PM.


GlenMH

5,204 posts

242 months

Sunday 1st March 2015
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Don't forget the interview is 2 way: they are interviewing you and you are interviewing THEM. Do you want to work there? How well organised are they? What are the prospects like? Flexibility? Working hours/conditions?

shirt

22,508 posts

200 months

Monday 2nd March 2015
quotequote all
skills and knowledge gets you in the room. after that its mainly personality, communication and leadership which you're judged on.

tick these boxes and you have an edge. you could be the most technically knowledgeable in your field and be wearing bespoke savile row but if you have a beige personality and can't create a rapport with the interviewers then who cares.