Lesson 3 – The Job Interview

Objectives:

At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

1. define oral application interview and differentiate this from the other types of interviews
2. explain the elements of a successful job interview
3. enumerate job interview etiquette
4. respond properly to questions raised during the interview.

A. The Oral Application Interview

The oral application interview is a special type of conversation in the workplace for which
one usually prepares in advance by appointment. It is one of the three kinds of interviews.
The other two are: the informational interview and the persuasive interview.

The informational interview aims to seek information from the interviewee. Like a
reporter questioning a distinguished official or a celebrity or a public opinion poll worker
seeking facts or beliefs on specific questions. Accurate informational interview requires
careful planning which include the preparation of questions to be asked. This may use forms
that are prepared in advance like the survey form.

The persuasive interview has to do with selling goods. Sales talk also needs careful
preparation for the salesman. You should have explicit and detailed information about your
goods and their advantages over other products of similar nature.

Purposes of the Job Interview

1. Amplifies and clarifies information from application form and resumes

2. Evaluates the presentability of the applicant
3. Elicits new information
4. Supports or contradicts information from tests conducted by the company and
reference checking
5. Provides the applicant with information about the job
6. Develops impressions about motivation, interpersonal skills and other personality
characteristics
7. Contributes to the organization’s public relations by leaving the applicant with a
positive feeling regardless of the hiring decisions.

Parts of the Job Interview

The job interview is usually granted by the human resource officer or the
manager of the company where you are applying. It consists of three parts: the opening,
the body, and the closing.
 The opening includes the initial contact between the communicants which
creates the initial impression. It is also where the rapport is created. It should be created
in a warm and positive atmosphere or climate which reduces anxiety and defensiveness.

The body of the interview proceeds with the objective of finding whether the
applicant fits the job as necessary. The interviewer influences both the amount and the
quality of information and the kinds of transactions that occur.

The conclusion of the interview can enhance or weaken what has taken place
previously. It should include: 1. the review and/or summary, 2. an orientation of what will
happen next, and 3. an expression of appreciation.

Job Interview Etiquettes

1. Come on time for tests and interview. You are assessed the moment you step in the
office. It does not help you to come late.
2. Wear the proper business attire. For men, do not come in jeans and a polo shirt. Men
should wear a pair of dark slacks, black or gray, and long sleeved polo shirt or shirt
and a tie. Avoid those in loud colors and those with cartoon prints because they are
distracting and in bad taste. For women, do not overdress. A simple skirt or a pair of
slacks coupled with a blazer will do. Choose light, pastel, or muted earth colors.
Avoid wearing heavy make-up and loud jewelry, hats or any headgear, and strong
perfume because these are distracting and show poor taste.
3. Do not bring anything unnecessary. Preferably, carry a bag where you may keep
your wallets, fans, keys and chains. Avoid fidgeting or searching anything in your bag
while you are being interviewed; it indicates nervousness and a lack of confidence.
4. Memorize the contents of your resume’ and always carry a pen and two or three
copies of your resume neatly tucked in a folder or an envelope. Be sure to know your
accomplishments.
5. Observe the basics of god manners. Do not sit unless told to do so. Do not chew
gum or smoke even if these are offered to you.
6. During the interview, it is alright to be a little nervous but do not let this affect the way
you speak or conduct yourself. Speak clearly and be attentive to the questions.
7. If you have any questions, do not be afraid to ask and do not be afraid to speak up. It
indicates confidence and shows the interviewer that you are interested.
8. Let the interviewer take the lead in discussions, however, avoid being too
opinionated.
9. Do not volunteer information which are not job-related unless asked or are necessary
to your job like age, birthplace, citizenship, native language, arrests, military
discharge, hobbies, organizations, race, sex, religion, and physical impairment.
10. After the interview, graciously thank the interviewer for taking time to speak to you.
Reiterate your interest in the position and tell him/her that you look forward to
hearing from him.
 Dealing with Difficult Questions in an Interview

The job market is tough, and sometimes the interviewer asks questions/gives comments
that are not basically found in your resume. They may come in the form of:

1. “You are overqualified”. Overqualified may mean that the company finds you more
expensive, ready to leave at the next opportunity, difficult to hire, and stubborn.
Counter this with your humility and enthusiasm, your willingness to sign contract,
your experience on how you assisted others in your previous occupation.
2. “You are under qualified”. This is usually meant for fresh graduates. It means that
you are too young and you lack experience and capabilities. Indicate your
accomplishments and your skills in and out of school. Express your willingness to
undergo training in relation to the job you applied for.
3. “What are your weaknesses?” You may mention a weakness but mention also how
you overcame it.
4. “What is your ideal job?” Mention the job you are applying for but indicate others that
the company is offering.
5. “Tell us something about yourself.” Prepare a one minute summary of your
experience, skills, accomplishments, and goals. Keep it short.

Assessment:

1. Why is the interview an indispensable tool for job application?

2. What are the three parts of the interview?
3. How should you carry yourself during an interview?
4. Observing the rules of effective interview, pick a partner and role-play a convincing job
interview. You will be judged by your course professor following the criteria below:

Interviewer:
Questions (quality and technique) ….3.5 _____
Self-confidence (delivery and eye contact) ….3.5 _____
Personality and Grooming ….3__ _____
Total Points 10