It may help you perform better at an interview if you understand something of the reasoning behind the Interviewer’s approach. It should never be forgotten that, whether you are one of many candidates, or just a few, the Interviewer probably has a range of options from which to choose, unless he/she is faced with a strong seller’s market or is trying to recruit into a highly specialist field. Nevertheless, it is always easier to justify a negative – the elimination of candidates – than to subsequently explain the mistake of taking on a bad recruit who could cost the employer many thousands of pounds.

Those who do interview you may not always be professional in terms of their background, training and approach. Be prepared for either type of interviewer, although a professional will suit you better, as at least they are likely to be systematic and know exactly what they are looking for. They are therefore more likely to recognise a well-prepared Candidate and value your efforts, and less likely to have prejudices. Such professionals will probably be systematic, use probing questions, evaluate your skills and the dimensions and levels of your responsibilities. The professional is likely to involve a range of questions preceded by “who, why, when, where, what and how”.

Alternatively, they may ask questions based on the proposed job description/specification for the vacancy for which you have applied. You may therefore be asked two or three questions on each area of your key responsibilities. Good Interviewers will ask a combination of close and open-ended questions to obtain a variety of replies. Open-ended questions include those such as, “describe……”, “explain…..”, “tell me about…..”. Whilst closed questions require specific responses to questions such as “how much”, “how long”, “did you”.

You should not use one or two word answers too often, but briefly develop your answer where appropriate. You should also expect the Interviewer to make notes whilst you are with him. It is quite acceptable for you to also make some modest jottings (e.g. names, key objectives) as this shows your involvement and interest. In particular, write down facts and figures about the Company’s activities.