An interview is a meeting
between an employer and a job
Preparing for Interviews seeker that takes place after
applying for a job and being
short-listed for the position. The
interview is as much for the
Types of interviews employer to evaluate you as it is
Interviews range from face-to-face meetings with one or more interviewers for you to assess if the job and
(a panel), telephonic interviews with one or more callers (conference call), or employer are right for you.
video calls using skype, facetime, or a similar app.
Depending on the job and the number of applicants, the first interview may be a short screening interview to secure
a place in the more in-depth second round of selection interviews. Selection interviews may include a competence
interview where you are required to prove your skills, complete a test or provide a presentation.
When you are invited to an interview
An invitation to interview may come a few weeks after applying, so make sure you keep track of where you apply to
and for what job. Ideally have a copy of the job description saved. Request and note the following details:
• Date and time of the interview
• Exact location and directions. Find out how long it will take to get there if you are taking public transport
or find out where to park
• If you need to prepare anything specific or bring anything to the interview
• The name or names of the caller or interviewer
• How long the interview will take
What to research before the interview
• Think about yourself, what you have to offer and what you have done that would make you the ideal
candidate for the position
• The job, the employer, and the industry. Check their website and research the industry they are in. Google
the company for additional information
• Questions to you can expect and what you should ask –. This is available in our hand out: “Interview
questions
Virtual interviews
For online or telephonic interviews, plan and test the following items well before the interview:
• Book a venue or ensure you have access to a quiet space. Ask the UCT Careers Service about facilities
that are available for this purpose.
• Make sure you have enough battery life on the device you are using.
• Test call to check the connectivity and stability of the phone or internet line.
• Test your camera and make sure the lighting is good, e.g., no bright backlight
• For video calls, dress smartly and check that the background is clean e.g., they can’t see your unmade
bed or a pile of dishes.
• Frame the camera to include your upper body so you appear natural and there isn’t a focus on the top
part of your head, which can happen when using a webcam
• If using Skype or a similar application, make sure that your username and profile picture are appropriate.
Preferably professional, e.g. NOT @cheekySquirrel99 or @soccerHooligan32
Presentations
If you are presenting something in the interview, you will need to cover logistical items as well as some technological
ones. Check that you do the following:
• Have multiple copies of digital files, e.g., on flash drive, in the cloud, emailed to the interviewer, and/or on
your computer if you are taking one.
• Test the format on different devices or file types, as layouts may alter during conversions.
• Bring any equipment you might need, including power cables and adaptors. Ask if you are unsure of what is
available.
• Limit animations and embedded clips that could malfunction.
In the interview:
First impressions count, you must conform to professional standards in terms of dress, timeliness, and so on:
• Arrive (or be ready) 5–10 minutes early
• Dress appropriately and professionally.
• Look people in the eye – for video calls that means looking at the camera when talking.
• Speak audibly and be friendly and polite
• Shake hands and/or stand to greet people (follow the interviewer’s lead on these types of gestures)
• Turn your phone to silent or turn it off!
Have a copy of your CV and/or professional references
After the interview
Within 24 hours of the interview:
• Send a short email to say thank you for the opportunity to interview for the position.
• Send any additional information that you were asked for or offered to send during the interview.
What happens next?
One of four things may happen:
1. You are invited to a second interview and you need to start preparing again.
2. You get a job offer. This is wonderful news! The offer normally outlines the conditions of your employment, e.g.,
the salary they are offering, the amount of leave, the length of the contract (if not a permanent position), and
working hours. You may wish to negotiate the terms before you make your new job official.
3. You get a rejection. Accept the decision graciously (keeping up your professional impression) and ask for
feedback on why you didn’t get the position. This will help you to prepare better for the next interview or
identify skills that you need to acquire.
4. You don’t hear from them again. This is frustrating. During the interview, you should have asked for a timeframe
for when to expect to hear back. If that period passes with no news, it is acceptable to contact the organisation.
The recruitment process can take time and it is worth asking for feedback after a fair amount of time has passed.
