Developing Interview and Telephone Skills
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Developing Interview and Telephone Skills
Part One
Developing Interview Skills |
Part Two
Developing Telephone Skills |
Part Three
Further information |
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Part One - Developing Interview Skills
An interview is a two-way meeting. It gives an opportunity for the interviewer to find out if you are a suitable candidate for the position, but it is also an opportunity for you to find out about the organisation.
Preparation
Doing your homework about the company and the job requirements prior to the interview will create a good impression and increase your chance of success. You should research information such as the size of the company, the type of clients, service or products and their future plans.
Dress to project an image of confidence. Appropriate clothes and shoes should be smart and clean, together with well groomed nails and hair
Check the time, date and location of your interview. Take into account factors like journey time, parking and traffic.
Consider possible questions that you may be asked and have answers prepared.
For example:-
- Why do you want the job and what do you have to offer?
- What are your interests, skills, experience and goals?
- Why should you get the job?
- What strengths do you have and what weaknesses?
The Interview
The interview begins as soon as you arrive so be punctual, preferably 10 minutes early. First impressions count, make an effort to present a lively appearance and greet the interviewer with a firm handshake. Attitude is important, be positive and confident.
Be aware of your posture and establish eye contact.
Listen carefully and respond to questions positively. Honesty and integrity are important as are enthusiasm and verbal skills. Do not volunteer negative information or criticism of a previous employer.
Ask questions as this is your opportunity to clear up any areas of concern. It may not be prudent to ask about salary or benefits unless the subject is raised. This is best left until later or discussed in a second interview.
End on a positive note. Thank the interviewer, smile and give a firm handshake.
We have books available on interview techniques in the department. Ask in the Work Zone for more details.
Part Two - Developing Telephone Skills
The telephone is a powerful, efficient and cost-effective communication tool and it is often the first choice when contacting friends, family and business.
Employers can also use this medium to assess potential candidates before issuing an invitation for an interview so it can be very important to develop these skills.
Everyone develops their own telephone style but there are some tips which may help project a confident and courteous approach.
Prepare in advance
- Organise your notes or questions around you so that relevant information can be easily accessed.
- Have a pen and paper handy to take notes. Avoid trying to write everything down as you may miss some important details.
- Try to practice what you want to say before picking up the telephone. This can be especially helpful if an answerphone is in use.
- Choose a quiet area to make your telephone call as any distractions could break your concentration.
Evaluate your Telephone Voice
- Speak at a level so that you can be heard clearly.
- The rate at which you speak can be important. Try not to speak too slowly or too quickly.
- Use a variety of tones in your voice to convey feeling and keep your listener interested.
Structure your call
- If you are not sure, ask for the name of the person to whom you are speaking.
- Check that it is a convenient time to call
- Respond appropriately to the speaker's questions and tone of voice.
- Repeat any future actions in your own words in order to confirm that you have understood them correctly.
- Confidence and enthusiasm can convey a sense of competence; try to speak with a smile on your face as this will be reflected in your voice.
Part Three - Further information
This leaflet gives general information and does not try to give full details on any particular matter. It cannot be treated as a statement of the Law.
Please contact us if you have any questions or suggestions about the information contained in this leaflet.
Our staff are here to help you, please telephone us on 445505 or call into our office.
You may also wish to visit www.jobsinjersey.gov.je
The Social Security Department is covered by the current Jersey Data Protection (Jersey) Law.
Please note: calls to the Department may be monitored for training purposes.
Other leaflets that may be of interest
Large print versions of most of our leaflets are available. Please call us on 445505 and we will be happy to send them to you.
