Preparing for an Interview

Preparing for an Interview

Make sure you have a good sleep and in a good frame of mind. 

• Always spend time about knowing the organization and the role.
• Do a self interview yourself which will set the stage.
• Think about how well your experience, interests and skills fit the job and the organisation;
• Search about the current affairs and trends which will help you to build confidence.
• Always try to see you in the role which you are attending, which will help you to find out what the prospective employer is actually looking for.
• Anticipate questions you might be asked, then prepare answers to these questions;
• Find out what form the interview will take, e.g. single, panel, group etc.

 You should also:

Plan the day of the interview, especially your journey with an aim to arrive ten minutes early. Take money in case you need to take a taxi or bus unexpectedly; carry an A-Z street map or put the postcode of the organisation into Google maps on your mobile to prevent getting lost.

Decide what you will wear and set it out the night before. Suits and business wear are the best option with comfortable, polished shoes.

Get an early night - we all perform better when fully awake and also have a good breakfast.

How do I make a good impression at a job interview?

Arrive on time or better still early;

Be organized.  Have your document placed in the right order and as per the company format and standards.

Listening is a very important aspect pay attention to the questions and answer them concisely.
Highlight your best attributes in the interview. Before you go, think about what you want the interviewer to know about you (in relation to the job) during the interviewing process.

There's evidence to suggest that non-verbal communication overpowers verbal communication so if you describe yourself as confident and outgoing but speak inaudibly and avoid eye contact, the interviewer will read the latter as indicating a lack of confidence and disregard what you said about being confident;

Practice anything you're concerned about. This could be saying your answers aloud, which builds confidence in hearing yourself speak, or having a trial run of the journey to the interview.

What techniques can I use to control my nerves?

In interviews, nerves can make you forget to do simple things such as smile and listen, which can result in being thought of as unfriendly or inattentive. You're more likely to be nervous if you're inadequately prepared so as well as following our advice above, you should give yourself time to think about what unique qualities you will bring to the job/organisation; think of practical examples to demonstrate what you have achieved and draw upon all aspects of your working, educational and social life.  Write notes and take these along to the interview.

use cues in your notes to highlight examples that you want to draw upon, such as 'cricket team', 'course representative', 'sales job'.  Be aware of the structure of the interview. Interviews often begin with topics that are easier to answer because you need less time to think, such as 'tell us about your studies at university'.  Pause before answering a difficult question in order to give yourself time to think. Use positive language, as interviewers will be assessing your motivation and enthusiasm.

Ask for clarification if, at first, you're unsure of what the question means; breathe.

How can I practice my interview skills?

Your university careers and employability service is likely to provide practice interview sessions.

Alternatively, you could:

Practice your answers (to anticipated questions) with someone you trust and seek feedback but don't be overly self-critical.

Use non-job interviews as opportunities to practice and monitor your interview skills, e.g. discussions with your tutor, doctor etc..

Ask for feedback and advice after unsuccessful interviews and take it as an opportunity to learn and improve.

Pay a private company to provide interview practice. 

What should I take to a job interview?

In general you will not need more than your own letter of application and CV, the job specification/description and your own notes.

Your invitation to interview should detail everything you need to bring. Often employers request examination certificates, which can take time to locate, so make sure you check what you need in plenty of time.

You might wish to impress by reading up on the organisation's literature, e.g. a business plan or corporate social responsibility strategy, but make sure you have read it in depth and be prepared to share your views and ideas.

A pen and notebook are always worth carrying with you and, if giving a presentation, take a copy on a data stick even if you have emailed it beforehand, along with copies of the slides to use as handouts for the interview panel.

If you take a mobile phone, make sure it is switched to silent or off before entering the organisation.

A competency-based interview?

This type of interview is one where the interviewer seeks evidence that you have the skills and experience required to do the job.   Interviews that take this form involve questions developed around the job and person specifications, so think carefully about examples from your own experience that match or complement these specifications. 

Remember that you can use examples from contexts other than work, for example, you may never have worked in a team in the same type of organisation but you have participated in teams elsewhere.

It's important to show an ability or interest in being able to learn new skills; if you are asked about something that is outside your experience, describe a situation where you learned something new and suggest you can do so again.

Preparing for a phone interview?

Phone interviews are most often used as a preliminary screen. When preparing for the interview it's important to consider:

• ·         tone of voice - ensure you're enthusiastic and use positive language;
• ·         battery life - if using your mobile charge it fully before the interview;
• ·         location - find a quiet place for the interview, where you will be undisturbed by noise or others.

Phone interviews are often recorded so you may want to find out whether yours will be. It's important to pay particular attention to getting your key messages across quickly - write key attributes down and have this available during the phone call. Be willing to repeat these with the use of examples.

More recently, there has been an increase in Skype or video interviews. This is particularly likely if applying for jobs overseas or where key staffs are located overseas.

Remember to dress as you would for a face-to-face interview and check what else will be in the shot with you before the interview begins.

Preparing for a second interview?

A second interview means you have made it through the initial screening and the interviewer is now looking for:

Evidence that you have the skills, abilities and interest to carry out the job.

Confirmation that you are able to bring something of value to the organisation.  It's likely that questioning will focus on gathering a deeper understanding of you and your motivations and how these fit with the role, existing team of staff and organisational ethos. Therefore, in order to prepare.

Find out as much as you can about the challenges that face the organisation, its priorities, its markets, its competitors, any existing or new legislative arrangements, etc.;

Think about what you could bring to the organisation and prepare examples of how you have achieved (or learned) something of relevance.

Find ways to demonstrate enthusiasm for the goals of the organisation.

Source and Inspiration from : http://www.prospects.ac.uk/interview_tips_how_to_prepare_for_an_interview.htm

The All Time Classic Dos And Don'ts in Job Interview

Job Interview: The All Time Classic Dos And Donts
By Bernard MarrInfluencer
Best-Selling Author, Keynote Speaker and Leading Business Data Expert

DO:

• Research the company and the position you’re applying for.
• Research common interview questions and practice your answers.
• Dress appropriately for the job you want, be neatly groomed, and dress relatively conservatively. Bring breath mints.
• Map out how to get to the location before the interview, and plan to arrive 10 minutes early. If something happens and you must be late, phone the office as soon as you know that you are running behind.
• Bring all requested paperwork with you to the interview including your resume, an application, references, identification, etc. Extra copies of your resume and a portfolio (if applicable) are also good to bring.
• Be polite and cordial to everyone you meet; you never know whose opinion will count.
• Offer a firm handshake and make eye contact when meeting someone.
• Repeat the person’s name to help you remember it.
• Maintain good eye contact during the interview.
• Approach the interview with enthusiasm about the job and the company.
• Stress your achievements and talents.
• Give detailed answers to questions with examples. Explain how you would go about tackling the assignments and challenges of the position.
• Have an opinion when asked.
• Answer questions like, “What’s your biggest flaw?” intelligently, but honestly.
• Show off any research you’ve done about the company, position, and industry with examples or educated questions.
• Take time to think about how to answer an unexpected question. You can repeat the question to give yourself a little extra time.
• Prepare to answer questions about your salary requirements.
• Ask intelligent questions about the job, company, or industry. It pays to prepare a few before the interview.
• Close by indicating that you want the job and asking about next steps.
• Get business cards from your interviewers, or at least make a note of the correct spelling of their names.
• Write down some notes after your interview so that you don’t forget any details of what was discussed.
• Write a thank you note and send it within 24 hours of the interview.
• Evaluate the interviewer, the company, and the position to be sure it’s right for you.

DON’T:

• Rehearse your answers so much that you sound like you’re just reciting from memory.
• Dress too casually, too flamboyantly or in revealing clothing.
• Arrive smelling (too much perfume, cigarette smoke, etc.).
• Be late to your interview if you can possibly avoid it.
• Arrive stressed.
• Bring anyone else with you to the interview (a parent, spouse, friend, child, pet, etc.).
• Address your interviewer by his or her first name until invited to do so. Don’t assume you know how to pronounce their name, either; it’s better to ask the receptionist to be sure. Don’t assume that a female interviewer is a Mrs. or a Miss; use Ms. unless told otherwise.
• Slouch, fidget, or yawn while being interviewed. Don’t chew gum or bring food or drink into an interview.
• Tell jokes.
• Bring up controversial subjects.
• Be aggressive.
• Be self-aggrandizing, insinuating that you are perfect and have zero flaws.
• Take out any frustrations about the job search process on your interviewer.
• Speak negatively about your current or former company, boss, or coworkers.
• Lie.
• Offer up any negative information about yourself if not asked.
• Make excuses.
• Be afraid to ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question.
• Answer every question with a simple “yes” or “no” answer.
• Bring up personal or family problems.
• Ask personal questions of your interviewer.
• Answer your cell phone, check messages, or text during an interview.
• Act as though you’re desperate and would take any job.
• Act as though you’re just shopping around or interviewing for practice.
• Indicate that you’re only interested in the job because of the salary, benefits, or geographic location. Don’t indicate that you intend the job to be a “stepping stone” to something else.
• Bring up salary, benefits, vacation time, or bonuses until after you’ve received an offer.
• Say that you don’t have any questions.
• Call immediately after the interview to find out if you got the job, or make repeated phone calls.

Inspired and extracted from: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/job-interview-all-time-classic-dos-donts-bernard-marr

Article: The key thing to remember is to close your cover letter by asking for the interview, How?

Covering Letter, which asks for an Interview!







A cover letter serves as an introduction to your resume and to yourself as a candidate for employment. It’s the place to show your interest in the position, and make a personal connection between who you are and why you’re a great fit for the opportunity. Showing your interest is important within the cover letter.

However, saying this ONE thing is almost an ultimate guarantee you’ll get the interview.

ASK FOR IT.

You know that old saying, ‘Ask and you shall receive’? It’s true. It may sound like such common sense and obvious advice, but how many times have you sent a cover letter with your resume and not asked for the interview? It’s easy to do!

In the closing paragraph of your cover letter, all you need to do is ask the employer for the interview. There is a statistics that have indicated job seekers who ASK for the interview in their cover letters are twice as likely to GET the interview. Below, are some examples that you can modify and use in your own cover letter.

Ending #1

I’m excited about the <position applied for> with <compnay name> and would love the opportunity to meet in person to further discuss my experience and the value I can offer you as your <position applied for>. Please call me at <phone number> to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.

Ending #2

I would love a personal interview at your earliest convenience to further discuss my credentials with you. I can be reached at <phone number> and will follow up as well to make sure you’ve received my information.

Ending #3

Thank you for your time reviewing my resume. I welcome the opportunity to discuss in a personal interview my qualifications and fit for the position. Feel free to reach me at <phone number> at your earliest convenience.

Ending #4 - This is a more direct approach

Thank you for your time and consideration. I will follow up in one week to schedule a day and time we can meet to further discuss the position and my experience. You may also reach me at <phone number> to schedule an interview.

You can ask for the interview with any wording you’re comfortable with. The key thing to remember is to close your cover letter by asking for the interview

Post-Interview Temptations 

Amira Soliman, PHR

HR Generalist at Community Healthcare Network

Act to be done after “post-interview”

Write a “Thank You” letter

This is a very important step after your interview. Not only are you thanking the employer for their time and the opportunity, but you’re also:

(a) Taking the opportunity to once again remind them of your strengths, skills and what you bring to the table

(b) Bringing up anything relevant to the position or organization that you may have forgotten to speak about during the interview

This is the perfect opportunity for you to follow up, and allow for them to be reminded of your candidacy. It is advisable to send one within 24 hours of your interview.

Employers interview process

Usually, employers let the interviewees know that they may be interviewing other candidates, and explain what the next step of the interview process entails. If the employer said that they will let you know within the next week, then do not reach out to them beforehand with the intention of asking for the status of your candidacy. However, if the employer did not say anything at all, perhaps this would be a good question to keep in mind when you go on your next interview. Remember – it’s not only them who are permitted to do all the questioning, but you should be asking questions, too!

When did you interview?

Was it yesterday? Three days ago? Last week? Last month?

The date of your interview makes a difference in determining when an appropriate time would be to reach out to them. General rule is at least two weeks to pass before making a move. Now, I’m sure many can agree that if they wanted to hire you, they would act on it quick! After all, who wants to lose a stellar candidate? However, you must keep in mind that there may be a lot going on in the organization far beyond the need for a candidate to fill that particular role. 

Depending on the position you may be in right now, waiting around before receiving an update or before reaching out to them may seem like forever. For those of you who are employed, take this time to continue focusing on your current duties and responsibilities. You do not want to put yourself in a position where you are jeopardizing your current role by putting too much focus on another opportunity. Do not make the mistake of losing your focus or work ethics.

And for those of you who are unemployed, continue expanding your job-search capabilities attend networking events, join a local group, take on hobbies, or just take this opportunity to do all the things you may not have the opportunity to do while working. You will never get this time back, so make sure to own it.

One of the most important things to keep in mind is:

Whether or not you are employed – always make sure to stay true to yourself. Reevaluate the reasoning behind your thoughts and decisions. What is it that you are truly looking for in your next role? Are you willing to accept anything that comes your way, or do you have a list of requirements you are looking for in your next position? Are you interviewing solely for the purpose to have an increase in salary, or are you interviewing because this is genuinely the career move you want to make? Are you truly ready and willing to interview for a position miles away from family and friends, or are you only doing so because you believe this may be your only option? These are a few vital questions to ask yourself.

Make sure to avoid a desperate mindset. Remember that your level of satisfaction in your next role matters, unless you want to find yourself back in square one within a short period of time.

Derived and inspired by: https://www.linkedin.com/today/post/article/20140722161053-135136376-to-call-or-not-to-call-post-interview-temptations

Mistakes people tend to make while going for an interview - Tom Bryan

Mistakes people tend to make while going for an interview - Tom Bryan, Managing Partner at ISGF, LLC

1. Don’t try to change the tone of the interview. If the interviewer is all business or very direct, respond in the same manner. Never try to lead the conversation in a different or more casual direction.

2. Saying too much – or too little. No hiring manager wants to sit and try to conduct an interview with a jabber jaws, but you do need to speak when it is appropriate. Don’t try to take control of the conversation, but DO ask enough questions to demonstrate your interest in the company and its values.

3. Wearing street clothes to an interview. Never wear ragged jeans, flip flops or other casual wear to an interview. Dress conservatively, and don’t over-do it with the jewelry, make up and perfume or cologne. You want to look professional and neat – not like you just came straight from the tattoo parlor or beach.

4. Arrive late. Nothing says “I’m really not interested in this job” more than arriving late for the interview. Be on time to make a good impression.

5. Weak handshake. When shaking hands with the interviewer, do it firmly, but not too vigorously. You want to show that you are confident, so avoid a limp or weak handshake as well.

6. “Umm”, “you know” – Ever heard someone who cannot talk without putting these kinds of words in every few seconds? This is a BIG turn-off for employers. Take a few seconds before you respond to questions and keep these verbal ticks in the back of your mind so that you will avoid using them. Practice before the interview, either in front of a mirror or with a friend.

7. Inquiring about vacation time, benefits or pay. It’s really not appropriate to ask these types of questions on a first interview. Wait until a time that you feel certain you are a top candidate for the position before getting down to the nuts and bolts.

8. Not being thorough in your answers regarding skills and qualifications. When job candidates are asked about experiences and skills, they often give answers that are vague. Give clear examples of your experiences and skills in a way that directly relates to the job you are hoping to land.

9. Not being prepared ahead of time. Any potential employer is impressed when you ask a few questions about the company that show you’ve done your research. By letting the interviewer know you have done a little research through intelligent questions, he/she will get the message that you are genuinely interested and serious about the job.

10. Not being clear that you want the job. An interview is partially for your benefit, allowing you to learn more about the company, the position and the details so that you have a clear picture of what you may be looking toward. When the interview has concluded, be sure to let the interviewer know that you are enthusiastic and interested in the job.

Article derived from, https://www.linkedin.com/today/post/article/20140606171100-4301732-interview-blunders-are-you-making-these-mistakes

Various Vacancy in ESIC

ESIC

ESIC Job Opening has been published recently and below are the details for ready reference.

RECRUITMENT FOR THE POST OF SUPER SPECIALIST (PART TIME) AND SPECIALIST FOR ONE YEAR ON CONTRACT BASIS

Application invited for Part Time Super Specialist.
1		Cardiology		02 (two )		Applications   are   invited.   Last   date   of submission is 30.11.2013.  Date of interview will be intimated after scrutiny of Applications on   basis   of   eligibility   criteria   mentioned below.
2		Nephrology,            Neurology, Oncology,                    Urology &Endocrinology		05 (one each)
Walk-in-interview for the post of Specialist for one year on contract basis.
1		Orthopaedics, Medicine &Blood Bank		3 (one each)		Date of Walk-in-interview is 21.11.2013. Reporting Time 10.00 AM to 12.00 noon.

Venue of Interview:- Room No. 72, Committee Room of Medical Superintendent in ESI Model Hospital, Basaidarapur, New Delhi-15.

Eligibility/Qualification for Super Specialist (Part Time):

1. MBBS, A recognized qualification included in the 1st or 2nd schedule or part II or of the 3rd 

schedule (other than licentiate qualifications) in the Indian Medical Council Act. 1956.  Holder of 

the educational qualification in Part II of the 3rd schedule should also fulfill the conditions 

stipulated in sub section (3) of the section 13 of the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956. 

2.  Post  Graduate  qualification  in  the  concerned  specialty (to  be  included  at  the  time  of  each 

recruitment). 3.  DM/MCH in the concerned super specialty. Age: Not exceeding 64 years as on 

date of interview Emoluments: a) Rs. 60,000/- per month for three hour session per day for five 

day in a week. b) for extra session of two hours Rs. 2,000/-. c) for giving undertaking to be 

available for emergency call duty after the schedule timing - Rs. 10,000/- per month.

Eligibility/Qualification for Specialist for one year on Contract Basis:

PG qualification with 3/5 years experience for degree/diploma holder.  Age not exceeding 45 years as on date of interview, Emolument: Rs.18,750/- + GP Rs.6,600/- plus allowances as admissible under rules.  Transport Allowance not admissible

All eligible and Interested candidate  may appear for walk-in-interview along with all the testimonials in original and their one self attested copy as per schedule of “Walk-in-interview” on the date & time mentioned against their respective specialty . Documents required:-

1.  Age proof. 

2. MBBS Certificates. 

3. PG Degree/Diploma Certificate. 

4. MCH/DM Certificates  (for Super Specialist) 

5. MCI/DMC Regn. Certificates. 

6. Demand draft of Rs.100/- For  candidate for the post of Part time Super Specialist, Full Time specialist- Contract drawn in  favour of “ESI Fund Account No. 1” payable at New Delhi (Non Refundable) 7.  Experience  certificate of 3/5 years in case of contract specialist.  No TA/DA will be paid to the candidates for  appearing for the interview. 8.Two Photograph (PP Size). Fee for interview is not refundable. Reservation as per rule.

Source Hospital Website www.esic.nic.in & www.esipgimsrbasai.in

E&OE (errors and omissions excepted)

Vacancy for Company Secretary in BMRCL - Walk in Interview

Walk-in Interview for Company Secretary in BMRCL 

BMRCL Jobs

BMRCL invites qualified and experienced  personnel  for a walk-in-interview for appointment to  senior & middle level management positions on deputation / contract basis in the Project Wing.

Sl. No	Name of Post	No. of posts	Age as on 1.11.2013 should not exceed	Minimum Educational Qualification	Experience
1.	Company Secretary	1	62 years	An Associate Member of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ACS /FCS)  with a Degree in Law	Minimum 15 years post qualification experience  of which  at least  7 years as Company Secretary in a Company of repute. Weightage will be given to persons having at least  10 years relevant  experience in Government / Public Sector Undertakings.

Job description

The Company Secretary will  be responsible for  all Board and Secretarial matters  including  conduct of Board Meetings, Board Committee   Meetings,   General   Meetings,   compliance   with provisions of the Company Law including filling of various  E-forms and E-Returns, compliance with  other statutory requirements.  He shall also be responsible for secretarial duties in respect of High Power Committee meetings.

I.    PAY

ON  DEPUTATION

As drawn in the Parent Department., plus Allowances as admissible under BMRCL Rules

II       ON   CONTRACT

Salary commensurate with qualification and experience.

Besides the above,  medical and personal accident insurance  cover and reimbursement of outpatient  medical expenses as per BMRCL Rules will  be  provided.

 III. CONTRACT APPOINTMENT

1.  The Contract Appointment will be for 3 years.   .

2.  The contractual period of appointment may be terminated by either side by giving 30 days  notice or by paying the contractual remuneration of one month in lieu of notice period, if  the circumstances so warrant.

 IV. CONDITIONS

1.  Candidates who have appeared for   walk in interviews conducted by BMRCL for the above said posts on an earlier occasion   need not appear for the interview again unless there is a change in the eligibility criteria.

2.  Prescribed qualifications are the minimum requirements and mere possession of the same does not entitle candidates to be called for interview.

3.  The experience is post qualification and the minimum required.  Mere possession of minimum experience does not confer any right for interview / selection.

4.  Any canvassing by or on behalf of the candidates or to bring political or other outside influence with regard to selection/appointment shall be a disqualification.

5.  Selection will be by a Committee constituted by the Competent Authority.

6.  The candidates who are working with State Government Departments / Public Sector  Undertakings may attend the walk-in-interview and if the candidate is   selected, BMRCL will seek consent for deputation from the respective Organization.  In respect of candidates working in Central government / Central PSUs, they may attend the walk-in-interview, after obtaining prior permission from their respective Organizations.

V. SELECTION

1.  Candidates appearing for walk-in-interview  should  download application format attached, fill up the same and come along with  all the relevant certificates, testimonials as prescribed for the post in originals and one set of Photostat copies for verification.  After verification, the candidate has to submit a set of Photostat copies of verified certificates and testimonials.

2.  Any candidate found guilty of impersonation or submitting fabricated documents or making statements, which are false or incorrect or indulging in suppression of facts, attempts to use unfair means for the purpose of recruitment, will be liable for rejection.

3.  The candidate shall have to indicate his/her acceptance to  the offer within fifteen days from the receipt of offer, if not, next candidate in order of merit will be offered the appointment on similar  lines.    However,  the  Competent  Authority  may grant  such  extension of time depending upon the exigencies.

4.  The candidates shall have to appear for interview at their own cost.

VI. MISCELLANEOUS

1.  Documents in support of qualification and relevant experience shall be submitted along  with the Resume at the time of interview. Non-submission of documents along with the Resume,  will  lead  to  rejection  of  candidature  at  any  stage  during  the process of recruitment.

2.  BMRCL shall not be liable for any damage / injury / loss to the individual, if any, sustained during the entire recruitment process and journey.

3.  Management reserves the right to assess fitness or otherwise of the candidates selected.

VII. TIME & DATE OF WALK-IN-INTERVIEW

Interviews for all the posts specified above will be held at BMRCL Head Office at 3^rd Floor, BMTC Complex, K.H. Road, Shanthinagar, Bangalore-560 027 on 22^nd, 23^rd, 29^th and 30^th November 2013 between  3.00 PM and 6.00 PM.

Source: http://www.bmrc.co.in/careers.htm

E&OE (errors and omissions excepted)