Avoiding the hidden pitfalls

Over the course of an interview, discovering the true essence of what a job might entail can prove difficult.

To put it very simply, this is because a job interview is as much of a sales pitch for your future employer as it is for you. In a similar sense to the job spec that comes before it, if an interviewer wants you, advertising the positive aspects of a job vacancy will be their key aim.

So whilst aspect x and y of an interview or job spec might be of real interest to you, aspect z – the aspect an interviewer conveniently doesn’t talk about - may not.

It’s therefore down to you to make sure you ask the difficult questions that other people might not have the confidence to press forward. Candidates often worry about such a forward approach towards an interviewer because they fear it may come across rude. But if you probe your interviewer in a respectful and open way, your employer is likely to respect your ability to communicate and stand your ground.

Finding out the good as well as the bad within a job role will ultimately mean that you’ll be able to make an informed decision about whether you’re suited to a job or not. 

SO WHAT SHOULD I BEAR IN MIND?

Here are some of the questions you might want to remember when it comes to finding out everything about both a job and a company:

• What was the reason that you joined this organisation?
• What is your background?
• What are the best and worst things about working at this company?
• What has this company got to offer new staff?
• Could you tell me about the team and how they work together?
• What are the opportunities in this role over the next 2-5 years?
• What is it about the company that keeps you working here?
• Where have other people who have done this position in the past progressed?
• What has been your career path and experience at the company?
• How would you describe your management style?
• How do you see the company developing over the next 1-2 years?
• If there was one word to describe the team, what would it be?
• What is the most challenging aspect I will face in the role when/if I come on board?
• What do you see as your biggest threat over the next 12 months?
• Is there anything about me that you are unsure about which you would like me to clarify?
• What are the key skills/competencies that you are looking to find in the candidate that fills this role?

WHAT NOW?

If you’re going for an interview soon and want some free, open and honest consultancy to calm those nerves, don’t hesitate in contacting us on: 01442 299000

Alternatively, if you haven’t started the job search yet but want to start thinking about a career change, why not have a look at some of our roles here.