Page 37 - You're Hired! Interview Answers
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You’Re hiRed! inteRview anSweRS Researching the organisation/
department
There are several very good reasons for researching the organisation you are
seeking to join.
n So that you know exactly what you are getting into – is this the kind of
organisation in which you can prosper; how do your talents match its
advertised needs?
n So that you can ask sensible questions at the end of the interview – you will
usually be given the chance, and it is a final opportunity to impress.
n So that you can anticipate some of the questions you will be asked – what
are the key things the organisation is likely to be looking for?
n So that you can show you are interested in the organisation, motivated to
join it and that you have been proactive in investigating its requirements.
It’s worth emphasising that most organisations will expect you to have done this
research and will be disappointed if it becomes clear that you haven’t. Imagine
these questions being asked:
n ‘So how much do you know about us?’
n ‘What makes you interested in working for us in particular?’
n ‘What do you see as the main challenges in the role you are applying for?’
n ‘What do you think about our recent press coverage?’
Giving a decent answer to questions like these depends on the research you
have done. Even when applying for an internal position, perhaps in a different
department, you should still do your basic homework. You have to assume
that the person or people interviewing you are enthusiastic, passionate and
committed to their business. You need to mirror this if you want to ‘get on their
wavelength’ and impress.
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