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Nursing Interview Questions

Nursing is a growth sector, with qualified nurses working for a private practice or in the NHS.

Job interview questions, for both the public and private sector, will be very similar with employers looking to employ a qualified nurse who can work in a multidisciplinary role, requiring a range of skills.

Even though Nursing roles are set to increase competition is high with Nurses earning an average of £25-£30k once qualified, raising up to £40k with experience and up to £70 for senior nurses.

Employers, when interviewing prospect nurses, are looking at work ethic as the role requires unsociable hours, empathy due to direct patient tasks, and a vast array of knowledge and skills due to the diverse range of job duties.

Interview questions, therefore, are mixed with employers mainly asking behavioral and situational job interview questions.

How to prepare for a nursing job interview.

Before we delve into the questions and answers, applicants need to prepare for the job interview:

Check the job criteria

No two nursing jobs are the same.

With this in mind, read the job duties and essential criteria to help predict the job interview questions. All questions will be based, in the main, on the future employee’s main tasks.

Source suitable examples

On average each applicant should have 5 stories that each exhibit 3 different skills or knowledge depending on how the interview answer is framed.

An example answer that explains how a nurse supported a patient who was ill even though the nurse had a prior engagement can be used to answer ‘tell me a time you went above and beyond to support a patient?’ or ‘what would you do if on a routine check-up you notice that the patient was acting out of character?’

The answer to the first question could be structured by talking about the importance of the prearranged event, before explaining the patient’s situation, ending with the nursing staying to support the patient.

Whereas, the structure for the second interview question would be best suited by giving an overview of the routine visit – what was expected, followed by a detailed explanation of the patient’s symptoms and potential illnesses, ending with the actions the nurse took.

Same example, two different frames.

Plan the delivery of answers

In most cases interviewees will arm themselves with several relevant examples.

What makes a successful interviewee standout is the style of delivery.

In fact, the applicant job interview identity – how the interviewee is viewed in the job interview, varies depending on their delivery and communication style.

To be seen as highly skilled prove it with evidence:

  • Testimonials
  • References
  • Data sets
  • 360 Reviews
  • Awards

Imagine being asked a question, as all interviewees do, the applicant answers using a real-life example.

Halfway through the answer, as the candidate is explaining what they did to achieve the objective, the evidence is provided to back up this claim. This results in a high-scoring interview answer.

Think about communication style

Low-scoring applicants often use short-sentences, a monotone voice and a low volume.

To be viewed as a professional experienced nurse, applicants must communicate with confidence.

Confident communicators, research shows, will:

  • Vary tonality
  • Use a variety of language
  • Be more descriptive
  • Have reduced filler words
  • Positively frame all interview answers – even the weakness question.

Share knowledge level

The main focus, as always, should be the ability to highlight a higher level of knowledge and expertise than a competitive applicant.

Sector knowledge can be shown through the delivery of strong interview answers, often with real-life examples, the production of evidence, and the use of industry models and theories.

Answering technical interview questions by discussing, as an example the human care theory by Dr Jean Watson, shows a high level of knowledge and academic ability.

Nursing Interview Questions and Answers

First, we will list the most commonly asked nursing interview questions, then we will analyse a few of the sector-related questions, highlighting how to create a high-scoring answer.

Most commonly asked interview questions.

  • Describe your experiences as working as a nurse and the different healthcare roles you have been involved in?
  • What made you choose nursing as a career?
  • Give me an example of when you have had to deal with a crisis?
  • How do you collaborate with other healthcare professionals?
  • What do you check before you administer drugs or medication?
  • What are the steps for carrying out a routine investigation?
  • How do you give patients healthcare advice?
  • Give an example of building trust with a patient?
  • Describe a time you had to work with a difficult patient?
  • What would you do if you disagreed with a doctor?
  • Give an example of managing a busy schedule?
  • How would you support a patient who was suffering from extreme pain?
  • Do you have any questions for the interview panel?

Questions and answers

Within the interview, the questions asked will fall into 3 key areas:

  • Patient care
  • Experience and knowledge
  • Caseload management

Patient care interview questions

Patient care interview questions include:

  • How do you build trust with a patient?
  • Give an example of giving end-of-life care?
  • What would you do if a patient became angry?

As well as looking for knowledge, the patient care questions allow an employer to view the applicant’s empathy, social skills, communication style, and personal qualities, in short, their temperament.

With this in mind, to answer any questions to relate to working directly with a patient use a story-telling interview answer.

Start the story, or real-life example, by descriptively explaining the patient’s situation. This could include if the patient was new or existing, a quick summary of their medical history and their current situation (the patient became angry, became ill, deteriorated, etc)

The middle section of the story structure must highlight the applicant’s skills and qualities. Here the interviewee can discuss the initial reaction to the current situation’ and describe the actions they took.

Actions can include remaining calm, following a process, a quick-thinking innovative solution, being assertive, being empathetic, going above and beyond.

This section is designed to showcase competencies. Explain the 5 steps taken to resolve the issue:

  1. ‘Initially I responded by (immediate action)…’
  2. ‘…this helped/solved/supported/assisted the patient (describe the outcome to the immediate action)…’
  3. ‘…Once the patient was out of immediate danger/had calmed down, I was able to (describe a well used industry process relevant to the situation IE completed CPR)
  4. ‘…this allowed me to assess the situation (more detail can be given)..’
  5. ‘…which resulted in (give outcome)…’

The final part of the story telling is a summary.

The conclusion should include a reference to the applicant’s temperament as well as their skills:

‘…to summarise, as someone who really cares for their patients I am always quick to respond to a crisis, which gives confidence to those around me, that’s how I (reference the original interview question)’.

Experience and Knowledge interview question

Job competency questions look like:

  • How do you collaborate with other healthcare professionals?
  • What do you check before you administer drugs or medication?
  • What are the steps for carrying out a routine investigation?
  • How do you give patients healthcare advice?

Each question is designed to test expertise.

To be viewed as a qualified professional, rather than an employee who, if employed, would need additional support, applicants need to frame their answers academically.

Model plus Example structure.

Detailing or breaking down industry-related models and theories, throughout the job interview, highlights a vast knowledge base.

Step 1 – state the model

‘The theory for dealing with (situation) is (state theory, model or process)…’

Step 2 – state experience

‘…an example of using this model was when (share a real life example)..’

Step 3 – show wider knowledge

‘…the downside of this model is (add the negative perspective) whereas (reference a 2nd model) does not have this problem, but can (add negative of 2nd model)..’

Caseload management interview questions

Administration interview questions are common across healthcare roles due to the large amount of paperwork required in this sector.

Interviewers are looking to test that the successful interviewee will be detailed oriented, possess time-management skills, and can easily multi-task.

Questions will include:

  • How do you prioritise patient needs (or tasks)
  • Are you experienced in using data management systems?
  • Give an example of caseload management?
  • How do you ensure that all tasks are completed to the set deadlines?
  • Why is administration important in a nursing role?

Answer each adminsiational question with a confience statement:

‘I am highly experience in…’

‘In all my previous roles I have…’

‘Yes it is important…’

Next, breakdown how you would deal with (the criteria reference in the question)

‘..when working in my last role I (give an explanation of what steps were taken to achieve the job criteria)…’

End the answer by explaining how you would implement the skill in the new position

‘…if I was successful in gaining the job offer I would (achieve task) by (summarise steps you would take)…’

Job Interview Advice

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3 Interview hacks to ace the job interview

Industry experts are more likely to be hired over a perceived low level of knowledge applicant, as all employers associate expertise with productivity.

With this in mind, the more an interviewee can prove sector knowledge, the more likely they are to be offered the advertised role.

For a highly experienced and confident applicant, such as the self-assured interviewee, the task of showing above-average industry know-how comes naturally due to their long duration within the job sector.

For other less experienced interview identities, including the inadequate candidate, to be seen as hireable, the applicant must be viewed as being more of an expert than they are.

These 3 job interview hacks will help anyone increase their chances of being hired.

Hack 1 – get quoted in industry magazines.

Nothing says ‘expert’ like a real quote in an industry magazine.

You don’t to be a charismatic and sector authoritative to have your opinions printed on paper (or online). In fact, it is really easy for anyone with a little industry knowledge, to be quoted by a journalist.

In a second I will show you a 5 step process that will get any career professional mentioned in an industry article.

What is important about this interview hack is that it can be used twice during the recruitment process.

First, the applicant’s application form. When highlighting their level of experience, a job hunter can state how they ‘…have X years of industry experience and have been quoted on (add sector-related activity) in (industry) magazine (or blog)…’

Stereotypically, only ‘experts’ have the industry experience and sector knowledge base to be viewed as worthy enough to be of interest to a leading sector magazine.

This hack, therefore, creates the ‘Halo Effect’. The halo effect is a psychological process where an interviewer, due to what they believe they know about an applicant (that they are an expert as they were referenced by a journalist) influences how they act towards the interviewee, often scoring their interview answers higher than they would have without the halo effect in operation.

Secondly, the same expert hack can be utilised in job interview itself.

Questions such as ‘tell me about yourself?’ or ‘what is your experience?’ lend to an applicant referencing how they are often quoted in sector-related articles.

No matter how the interview hack is used, employers are often impressed by an applicant with a visible level of expertise.

How to get quoted in an industry magazine.

  • Sign up to HARO (help a reporter out) as a ‘source’

HARO is a platform for journalists and expert sources to collaborate to help produce informative articles, news stories, and blog posts.

  • Receive emails based on your job sector/expertise

Once signed up you will receive daily emails with a list of request for quotes, stories, and expert industry information from a range of physical and online newspapers and magazines

  • Write and send of quotes, opinions and expert advice on subjects relating to your career

Some request ask for a full length piece, while others ask for a quote on a particular sector subject or an expert interview.

  • Receive confirmation that the piece you have been quoted in is ‘live’

When emailing your tips, advice or quotes, ensure that you record your name, profession, and even link to your personal website or social media pages as most online journalists reference the source.

  • Use being a professional source during the recruitment process

Don’t go into to much detail, and avoid explaining the process of being a ‘source’. Instead, discuss how as an industry professional you are often asked to give quotes and sector related opinions.

Hack 2 – Create a celebrity status

In the main, career professionals use linked-in to find job opportunities, to network with industry professionals, and now more than ever before, to share pictures of cats!

But linkedin is one of the best sources for pre-interview research.

One thing that impresses an interviewer is when a candidate knows who they are – it makes the recruiter feel like a celebrity.

With just a few hours strolling through the interviewer’s post you can find interesting facts that can be mentioned in the job interview to build rapport.

It is well documented that commonality increases liking. For instance, if an applicant’s research shows how they and the interviewer have both worked at the same organisation during the same period, the interviewee, on arrival to the interview could ask ‘hey, didn’t you work at X about 5 years ago?’

Not only will the interviewer agree (as the statement is true) the interviewer will increase liking due to the psychological power of the affinity bias.

A secondary gain from this hack is that the interviewer will feel compelled to ask the candidate what job role they had or what department they worked in, creating a natural conversation.

Conversations bond people together , especially when discussing shared experiences.

Another way to use the ‘celebrity’ status hack is by showing enthusiasm for an industry-related project, achievement or comment the interviewer has referenced on their Linked-in profile.

As an example, saying ‘I liked how you defended your argument about (sector relevant criteria)’ or ‘I know you champion (industry policy) this is something I’m passionate about to’ will help increase rapport.

Positive comments are associated with being liked, and through the power of reciprocal liking, the employer who now thinks the applicant likes them, will in turn like them back.

Hack 3 – Linkedin for likeability

The familiarity principle stats that more exposure a customer has to a brand the more that customer will positively evaluate the brands products.

Why do brands such as coke-cola and McDonald’s spend billions of pounds on advertising even though customers know who they are and already purchase their products?

Because familiarity increases likeability. Some research shows how a customer needs to see a product 7 times before they are influenced to purchase it.

This psychological sales hack is the same for applicants in the job interview.

The more awareness an interviewer has of a potential employee the more inclined they are to offer them the position.

How many times have you missed out on a job opportunity because the position was offered to an internal candidate?

Linked-in can be utilised, prior to the job interview, to increase familiarity with the interviewer.

This hack needs to be started well before the interview, even before a job has been advertised.

  1. Choose several companies you would be happy to work for
  2. Set up alerts to ensure you are one of the first to know about new job openings
  3. In the meantime, on Linked-in search for managers in each of the desired companies and connect with them
  4. Next join industry related groups, especially those that the managers have previously joined
  5. To increase visibility, like and add comments to the managers posts
  6. To show sector expertise, add industry articles and make sector related comments and question on industry related groups

By the time an applicant has applied for a role within one of the target companies, they would have hundreds of LinkedIn interactions, many of which would have been viewed by one of the managers who are now part of the interview panel.

Conclusion

To be successful in a job interview, especially for medium to high-level job roles, employers need to view the applicant as an industry expert.

Using exposure, via platforms such as Linkedin and showing expertise through being quoted in industry magazines, which can also be added to the candidate’s LinkedIn page, creates the impression of being highly knowledgeable.

This process creates the halo effect, improving pre-interview opinions. In the interview, rapport can be further improved through the use of finding commonality.

Once the interview opinion of an interviewee is positive, all the career professional has to do is to give detailed answers to each interview question to showcase previous experiences and competencies.

Job Interview Advice

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The Pyschology of Job Interview First Impressions

 

Everyone talks about how the first ten seconds of a job interview is the most important – well they are wrong and here’s why

So what is this 10-second rule in a job interview all about? The interviewer comes to the reception to invite you into the interview room, it is in this initial meeting when the first impression is received. 

Many job interview coaches will tell you “make a good impression in the first 10 seconds and the rest is easy” Well the 10-second rule is a lie and even when you make a good first impression that doesn’t mean the job interview will be easy, it only means that the interviewers will listen to your job interview answers more favourable …without even knowing it 

Is the 10 Second Rule a Lie?

A psychologist will tell you the truth about the 10-second rule; that its a lie. 

Because first impressions are made in milliseconds. 

That’s right, the first impression is made instantaneous.

The subconscious will take billions of pieces of information; your stance, hairstyle, posture, micro facial expressions, the colour of your interview clothes, the material of said clothes, your voice, tonality, the words you say…the list does go on a bit so I will stop there. And without conscious awareness creates a first impression – the interviewer will feel an emotional association to you – this could be positive or negative

Make The First Impression a Good One…

Here’s a great trick to help improve your first impression.

So, I’m not going to say dress in a nice suit blah blah blah…if you’re not already doing the basics stop reading this blog. 

When you arrive at your interview, you will, in most situations, be greeted by the receptionist. The receptionist will take your name and you will be asked to take a seat until the interviewer is ready to collect you.

Most people, in this situation, will sit nervously thinking (thinking is an internal process) about how they can sell themselves. This is bad because if you start thinking like this you are sure to increase your nerves – not a good start.

Secondly, when the interviewer comes to meet you, what do they find someone daydreaming – not a good first impression. 

Instead, apply this little trick using interveiw psychology: 

Ask the receptionist about her day? I know not what you expected? Follow this up with more questions – basically get the receptionist into a conversation with you (you could even ask questions about the organisation to see if you would like to work there) 

 

Interview questions and answers

What happens now is that when the interviewer arrives to greet you, their first impression is a friendly, confident and professional person engaged in a conversation – that’s just the conscious first impression.

Remember we said that the subconscious makes an automatic first impression in milliseconds based on, well, everything about you.

When you are involved in a conversation your body language to your voice is more charismatic compared to when you are sat nervously in a waiting room chair. The interviewers subconscious will be screaming they’re amazing, hire them now – well not quite but you can see how this simple strategy creates a better first impression

 

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3 Easy Steps for Creating the Perfect Interview Answer

The Perfect Interview Answer

The way you win a job interview is through your perfect job interview answer.

How you reply – with strength or with weakness, determines the success of your job interview. This article will teach you the 3 steps to make a job interview answer hit the mark

Step 1

Answer with confidence.

The first few seconds of your interview answer determines whether the interviewer will listen or ignore the rest of your answer (well they’ll half listen – still not that good)

To create a buzz and to ensure that the interviewer is interested, state straight away that you can do, or have the desired skill they request. Just state “yes” or “I have a great example of that” if you have what they want they will want to listen to your answer

If you wanted a chocolate bar and I said I know where you can get an apple, you wouldn’t be interested. Instead, if I said I know where you can get chocolate your all ears. Give them what they want straight away

Step 2

Create intrigue and an emotional response

Rather than state just logical facts (if you do this you’ll become part of the grey void that all other applicants merge into) gives an emotional story.

People are emotionally drawn to a story. Adopting this storytelling tactic in the job interview you can create authority by selling your skills, experiences, and qualities through the adventure of a detailed story. Stories create visualizations and what you visualize you feel

Step 3

Sum up at the end

Your story creates rapport – key in today’s job interview, but you need to remind that you have X skill

At the end of your answer simply say “so overall I have X skill” or “so yes, I can say I have been using X in all my roles to full effect”

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10 Job Interview Questions and Answers for PA (Personal Assistant)

10 Job Interview Questions and Answers for a Personal Assistant

A personal assistant (PA), sometimes referred to as an ‘executive secretary’ will work closely with senior management team members providing administrative support.

The personal assistant is responsible for the support of a senior manager, supporting them with their time management, dairy management, and internal and external communication.

Employers are looking to hire a personal assistant who is deemed to be trustworthy, well organised, a strong administrator and someone who is able to take on extra responsibility in the absence of the managerial team.

It is these key skills and duties, as well as the personal assistant’s work ethic that needs to shine through during the job interview.

The key to passing job interviews in preparation and practice, this sounds obvious but is often overlooked, with the average interviewee spending around only 60 minutes preparing for their job interview.

This article will help you to prepare and to pass your next job interview in 3 separate ways.

1. You will learn over 10 common asked interview questions for a Personal Assistant position.

2. You will be given an explanation of the type of answer the interviewer is looking for ( a guide to what the employer wants you to discuss )

3. You will be given an example job interview answer for each individual interview question, allowing you to tweak this answer, making it relevant to your own experiences.

job interview coaching

Job Interview Questions and Answers for a PA (Personal Assistant) 

Job Interview Question 1: 

“Tell me about yourself?”

One of the most common asked questions in interviews normally asked at the beginning of an interview, this question gives you the opportunity to deliver a short statement about your experiences and skills relevant to the job position you are applying for.

  • Start with a “selling” line that will cover your duration as a PA as a whole 
  • Discuss 3 key points/experiences that will make you stand out 
  • Keep each point brief as you can explain each point again in more detail throughout the interview
  • You want to interest the interviewer and get them to want to know more about you
  • End this answer with a reason why you’re looking for a new job

Potential Interview Answer 

“I have over 15 years of experience as a personal assistant. During this time I have learned 3 key skills that I use in all PA roles, increasing efficiency. My key achievement during my 15 years of experience is (add key achievement)  I feel I would be an asset for your organisation because I can bring X (add unique selling point) to the organisation.  

Job Interview Question 2: 

“Why do you want this position?”

Your research will pay off with this question; explain you have always wanted to work for their company and the reason why. Discuss how your goal has always been to work in this organisation as you always wanted to (job criteria) and finally finish by explaining how your previous experience or qualifications will add value to the company.

Potential Interview Answer 

“I have worked as a PA for over 15 years in a variety of sectors. For me, my goal has been to work with your organisation, as I believe my vision is in line with your company mission. I know I can excel in any office environment, and some sectors offer a higher salary. But my work goal is very important to me, which is why I am applying for a position with yourself. I know we will collaborate successfully together  and for me being able to work with your company where you (add a key company value/goal) will give me job satisfaction. 

   

Job Interview Question 3: 

“Do you work well within a team?”

Some people are thrown when they are asked this question when they are applying for a PA position to work alone/under management. Every company works as a team,. To excel in the job interview give an example of when you have worked well within a team with a successful outcome. Explain the current situation (or problem) how the team approached this and the positive outcome)

Potential Interview Answer 

“In my previous company, I was involved in a new innovative project. The management team was concerned with a drop in profit over a 6 month period. A new innovative solution was required. At the ideas meeting everyone came up with different ideas but none was picked. This led to tempers being frayed. I then suggested that we wrote each idea of a flip-chart and everyone had to record the pro’s and con’s of each suggestion. This led to clarity and an idea being taken on-board. My manager said to me, that if I hadn’t made that suggestion they will still be there no arguing. 

Job Interview Question 4: 

“Did you get on well with your last manager?”

A personal assistant has to have the skills to build rapport and communicate strongly with the management team. If a PA and management team don’t get along it will create stress in the overall team. This question is to check if you can fit in well with a team, with their team. 

Potential Interview Answer 

“Yes, I always get on with everyone. I have found over my career that managers, as all people do, have different personalities, different motivational and stress indicators and work in different ways. My success comes from being able to work in style the manager preferences, rather than disrupting well-placed systems with my own method.”

 Job Interview Question 5: 

“What are your strengths?”

This is one of the most common questions you will be asked in a Personal Assistant job interview. Give an answer relevant to the skills and qualities relevant to the position you are applying to. The interviewer is trying to find if your strengths match the job. For example, if you are applying for a job where accuracy is an important issue, one of your strengths could be that you have an eye for detail. It may useful to find different words to describe similar attributes and qualities in order to avoid repetition.

Potential Interview Answer

“I have often been told that I have an eye for detail and that I am very accurate and precise. This was very important during my last role where I worked on large business accounts. An example of this was when (give example- state problem, your solution and outcome)” 

Interview Test

Job Interview Question 6: 

“What are your weaknesses?”

Again, another commonly asked question. A frequent mistake to make when answering this question is to say something negative like “I can sometimes let things get on top of me”. Be positive and sell yourself with every interview question, turn a negative into a positive. For example,

Potential Interview Answer

“In the past, I felt I needed to improve my typing skills because I aspire to be the best I can, I have recently enrolled on a typing course”.

This will show that you can identify your weaknesses but at the same time, you are willing to improve. Most importantly: do not mention a weakness that is any way related to the job you are being interviewed for! This might sound obvious but it is a common mistake!

Job Interview Question 7:

“Do you know anything about this organisation?”

Often one of the first questions you will be asked during the interview, employers want employees who will stay with the company, this question and answer will show the employer that you know the company’s history and feel they will be a good employer to work for.

It also shows the employer that you think ahead and carries out research. Answer this question with:

  • The length the organisation has been operating for.
  • How the company started
  • What services/products the company offers
  • Where they are going (have they won any new contracts)
  • All this information is normally found on the internet; on the company home page or about us page.

Potential Interview Answer

“I know a great deal about your organisation, before I applied for the job position I researched the company. I really like how the company started as a partnership company is an environmentally friendly company. I know the companies aspirations are (add aspirations often found in the company mission) and I feel with my experience we can collectively achieve these”

Job Interview Question 8:

“Do you think you have enough experience to work within a senior management team?”

If you’re asked this, then the interviewer does not believe you have enough experience. If you have you need to make this clear, explain about your previous experiences and give detail to the parts that are relevant to this new job role.

If you do not have the experience they need, you need to show the employer that you have the skills, qualities and knowledge that will make you equal to people with experience but not necessary the skills. It is also good to add how quick you can pick up the routine of a new job role.

Potential Interview Answer

“Altogether I have 15 years of experience in this industry with over 9 years working within senior management teams. My skills include exceptional written and oral communication skills, excellent word processing and IT skills, including knowledge of a range of software packages and the ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.  I have always had an eye for detail and an ability to find errors easily, allowing me to be pro-active rather than reactive”

Job Interview Question 9:

“What is your biggest achievement?”

Pick one key achievement, something that you have undertaken that other PAs wouldn’t have. Keep this example work-related and think about your unique selling point. This is the question that when answered correctly will allow you to stand out from other job applicants. 

Potential Interview Answer

“I was once asked to give a presentation, at first I thought I wouldn’t be able to deliver it without embarrassing myself. I wrote the presentation and practiced it in front of small groups, until I had the confidence to deliver it to a large group. I was really pleased with the result on the day and I was good feedback from my line manager.”

Job Interview Question 10:

“Do you have any questions for me?”

Good interview questions to ask interviewers at the end of the job interview include questions on the company growth or expansion, questions on personal development and training and questions on company values, staff retention and company achievements.

Conclusion 

Many people are afraid of job interviews. The truth is if you prepare for your job interview, by predicting the job interview questions, you can easily prepare your job interview answers. If your job interview answers highlight your unique selling point, are stated in the positive and are said in a confident manner, then you can influence the job interview to increase job offer.

Interview Preparation Resources

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3 Key Things You Must Remember About Job Interviews
	


	
	

		
What You Must Remember About Job Interviews


I work with a lot of clients who fear the job interview.


It is this anxiety that ruins their job interview performance, resulting in another, often less skilled, applicant receiving the job offer. Often it’s  not the best suited interviewee who is successful, rather its the person who impresses in the interview that receives the job offer.


In the job interview you need to be on your A-Game. There are 3 things that you must remember about the job interview, 3 things that will help you feel more at ease, increasing your interview confidence.


Set Up Your Own Coaching Business




It is rare that the interviewer is trained to interview


The first thing to remember about the job interview is that the interviewer is just as nervous as you are.


We become anxious when we are in unfamiliar territory. In most cases the job interviewer hasn’t been trained to interview applicants. Because they don’t want to be seen as weak, they will try to mask their nervousness in the interview itself. But by knowing that they are just as anxious as you are will help you feel more confident.


Due to the lack of interview experience for most interviewers, you need to ensure that they hear and record all your key selling points. Use repetition for this. Throughout the interview give several examples of using your key skill/selling point to make the point clear – if you hire me I will do X for you.




Likability Influences


People who have a likable personality or more likely to be offered the job.


During the job interview you need to build rapport, find common ground and use intrigue and stories to create a likable and remember-able job interview.


It simple isn’t good enough to have 10 years experience, the employer is looking for someone with experience but also someone they believe will fit well within the team and someone with good work ethic.


Interview questions and answers


If you have it, say it


When  explaining what you can offer in terms of skills, qualities and experiences you need to state everything in detail.


So many failed interviewees skip over key criteria because they see it as an everyday task. It is these everyday task that the new employer require you to complete.


Remember they don’t know, they have never meet you and they have no idea of what your daily task are.


The employer wants to hire someone who can hit the ground running. Explain all the daily task, and then add on your unique selling point.


Most interviewers use a point system. If you say X, Y and Z you get full points. If you miss one out your points are reduced. The more you say the more they will know what you can bring to the team.





	


	





		

		
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5 Influence Styles You Can Use in a Job Interview
	


	
	

		
5 ways to influence the interview outcome


You are influenced every day, thousands of times, and you probably aren’t aware of 90% of them.


We are influenced by images, words, social proof, repetitive slogans, scarcity and by a number of other things. People influence each other with tonality, gestures, commitment and their style of communication.  the power of influence has a massive effect on your day with you buying goods, voting for politicians and making choices because of the power of influence and psychology.


These same psychological tactics can be employed in the job interview, giving you the upper hand. Here are 5 different influencing styles you can adopt in your next job interview.


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 Assertiveness


We respond to authority.


By being seen as an authority in your sector you will gain compliance from the interviewer. Being assertive, stating, insisting that your ideas and suggestions will have a positive outcome once employed people to your authority.


Most of us are sheep and like to be sheep. Being a commanding Sheppard, herd the interviewer(s) to the pen of your choosing.


 Convincing


The best salespeople convince us that their product is the best product, even if it means spending a little more.


Put forward your ideas and offer logical, rational reasons to convince the job interviewer of your point of perspective. Once the interviewer is won over with one idea they are more likely to agree to other ideas due to the psychological law of compliance. This is why great salespeople not only sell one good, they also up-sell to their customers




Negotiation


An interview is a two-way conversation.


As with all debates, there are two sides to every story. If the interviewee states one fact, suggestion or idea and the interview has another viewpoint you can easily create friction, even fall out.


The secret to winning people over is negotiation. Look for compromises and find the middle ground


Relationship Building


A great communicator is someone who can build strong relationships with a complete stranger.


Nowhere is this more important than the job interview situation. Use common interest, your tone, facial expressions, body language, everything to build rapport. People will often favor people more that they like. This means that your interview answers will gain more points if the interviewer likes you as a person, compared to someone who takes an initial dislike.


Inspire Imagination


Humans are goal setters.


Often interviewees talk about past successes – this is good to a point. To really influence the interview, explain how your skills and past experiences will make an impact in the future within their organisation. Find future possibilities that will inspire the interviewer, show them how you will increase profit, create new business and save on overheads. Give them a positive future vision.


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Posted on 
3 Psychological Tactics to Sell Yourself at a Job Interview
	


	
	

		
Th Psychological Tactics You Need to Sell Yourself in a Job Interview


Marketers, sales professionals and big brands use sales psychology to influence your spending habits.


These same psychological tactics can be employed in the job interview, giving you the upper hand. Here are 3 psychological tactics to sell yourself at a job interview.


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 Psychological Sales Tactic #1


Emotional by-in


Many studies have repeatedly highlighted that people by goods, ideas and recruit staff due to how the product will effect the person.


In the job interview you are more likely to be hired by using emotional stories to highlight your skills and experience, rather then just listing your qualities, traits and successes.


When answering “give me an example of….” questions, start by stating the pain of the current situation, explain what steps you took and then highlight the positive and emotional outcome.




Psychological Sales Tactic #2


Offer out your weaknesses


The “what is your weakness?” interview question is asked less and less these days, due to applicants searching on YouTube for the best answer. But when buying any product we are naturally suspicious, just as the interviewer is when you only state positives.


By stating your own flaws (don’t go overboard) you create credibility. Credibility, especially when mixed with likability will lower the interviewers defensive. The employer at this stage is more likely to buy in to you, believing the following interview answers.


Interview questions and answers


Psychological Sales Tactic #3


Create fear


At some stage during the interview if you are using all the rules from influencing the interview, you will know that the employer is impressed, they want you.


Scarcity is a powerful motivator. People on eBay, will purchase more for a product then they originally stated they would due to the thought of losing out.


You can use the same psychology in the job interview, if the interviewer, who by now wants to offer you the position, believes you may take an offered job from a competitive company they will compelled to desire you even more.


At some stage in the interview let in slip how you have been successful in other interviews.





	


	





		

		
Posted on 
Job Interview Questions for a Procurement Officer
	


	
	

		
How to Pass a Procurement Officer Job Interview


To prepare for a procurement job interview you first need to predict the job interview questions. To do this simply read the job spec and turn each duty or essential criteria into a job interview question.


As a procurement officer, your average salary will be between £30,000-£45,000. At this level of salary an employer will expect a high level of knowledge to be expressed throughout the job interview.


Being responsible for sourcing and procuring quality equipment, goods or service at competitive prices inline with an organizations strategic strategy, means interviewers will want to hear how you can build relationships, finding new suppliers, negotiation skills  and record keeping.


In addition, throughout the job interview, ensure you  show an awareness of risk management and ethical issues.


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Job Interview Questions for a Procurement Officer


Interview Question 1 tell me about your experience as a procurement officer and the required skills you need to be successful in this role.


Interview Question 2 how do you deal with a supplier who states that your order will be late?


Interview Question 3 What is your approaching when dealing with a disgruntled customer?




Interview Question 4 how do you review your performance?


Interview Question 5 how do you negotiate successfully with a supplier?


Interview Question 6 are you enthusiastic and a good team player?


Interview questions and answers


Interview Question 7 give an example of taking the initiative


Interview Question 8 what skills do you need to be a procurement officer?


Interview Question 9 how will you make a really impact if you were successful?


Interview Question 10 do you have any questions for me?





	


	





		

		
Posted on 
5 Things to Do After an Interview that Helps You Seal the Deal
	


	
	

		
What To Do After an Interview to Seal the Deal 


The three step process of searching a job includes:


    

  • Drafting a perfect resume
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  • Preparing for the Interview
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  • Post-Interview Follow-Ups
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The first two steps are conventional and you prepare according to the job you apply to. Done with the job interview, now what’s next? 


Once you have shaken hands and parted ways, you do not just have to sit ideal and wait for the employer to get in touch with you.


Here are five things you should be doing after an interview that help you get the job. 


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#1 Write a Thank You Note


Firstly, when in an interview remember to collect business cards from each member that you meet in your process. 


The best way to follow up is to write an e-mail within 24 hours of the interview. Your follow-up mail should be drafted in a job letter format starting with acknowledging each one of them for their time and then reiterate why you are the perfect fit for the job. 


Use this follow-up email to thank the interviewers for the time they invested in meeting you, express what interests you in the position and anything you feel led to a personal connection during the interview process. 


Another quick way to leave an impressive mark in the minds of the interviewers, leave a hand written thank you note followed by a follow-up email in a week’ time.


#2 Judiciously Connect Online


It might be tempting to connect with everyone that you have met with online. 


Do so, but make sure that it does not leave an impression of you stalking them. Check their online presence before you reach out sending those requests. For example, someone you met at ABC organization has more than 500 people on his/her LinkedIn account implies that he/she is open to accept requests. 


On the other hand, there might be someone with a private account. So hold yourself there, before you send out a request. 


To be on the safe side, it is better to follow people or the organization on Twitter. It displays that you have a keen interest in the company. Keep Facebook for friends and family. Connection professionally on Facebook might turn the tables around for you.








#3 Follow-Up Again


It can take a while to get a response from the employer after you have had that interview. The reasons can be many. 


If this is the case, you should consider following up again. But make sure that you have something new to offer each time you write a follow-up e-mail. 


You can look out for a piece of news or what’s happening in the related industry and share it in a small follow-up note. 












#4 Keep Those Notes


It is important that you have a track of job openings you pursue, the resumes sent and the contacts you have made through an application. 


Once you are done with an interview, take out time and make notes listing down the people you met, the conversation you had and what remarkable you learned through the process. 


Additionally also keep a note of the impressions you made and any concerns or questions you would like to put up to the employer when given a chance.






Interview questions and answers


#5 Make a Call


Communicating electronically has become the norm these days. 


The extent is to the level that some people today think that a phone call will intrude their time. So, when you call someone make sure that you are considerate and careful both at the same time. 


Recall, if they told you to call or drop an email. If not and you have already tried to get in touch through an e-mail without any response, before calling think about what you are going to say. It is better to practice before you make the call. 


Finding a job is not an easy task. If you get an opportunity, make sure you use it to the fullest. Some annoying things candidates do in name of follow-up can harm the chances of you making it to the job. Here is a list of things you must not do definitely to keep your chances high.


    

  • Following-Up too much
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  • Changing the salary expectations after the discussion
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  • Acting like you have the job
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  • Skipping the thank you note
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  • Bringing up other job offers
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Author Bio


Akansha Arora is a professional writer and blogger who loves to pen down her views on a number of topics that interest a reader. She writes keeping in mind the current scenarios and wishes to keep her readers well informed.