job interview

The Perfect Job Interview: Preparation, Questions, and Tips for Employers and Employees

A job interview is more than just an interview – it is an opportunity for the candidate and the employer to get to know each other and determine if they are a good fit. Employers look for candidates who are not only professionally qualified but also personally fit into the team. Candidates, in turn, want to find out if the company meets their expectations and is an attractive workplace.

It should be noted that job interviews should not be testing situations or stress tests. Instead, it is about getting a realistic picture of each other in a pleasant conversation. Particularly in industries with a shortage of skilled workers, companies need to be aware that they must also present themselves as attractive employers.

For the conversation to be successful, good preparation is essential. Employers should approach the interview in a structured way and create an open atmosphere for discussion. Candidates, on the other hand, should engage with the company and prepare specifically for questions.

Typical Questions in a Job Interview

The questions in a job interview are designed to learn more about the qualifications, personality, and motivation of a candidate. Typically, these can be divided into different categories:

• General Questions:

  • Why did you apply to us?

  • What do you know about our company?

  • What motivates you to pursue this position?

• Experience-related Questions:

  • What experiences from your previous job are particularly relevant for this position?

  • Can you name a professional challenge and explain how you overcame it?

  • What successes have you achieved in your previous career?

• Personality and Behavioural Questions:

  • How do you handle stressful situations?

  • Do you prefer to work independently or as part of a team?

  • What three strengths and weaknesses do you have?

• Situational Questions:

  • How would you react if a customer is unhappy with your work?

  • Assuming you have to take on an important task at short notice – how do you organise yourself?

At the end of an interview, candidates should definitely ask their own questions. This shows interest and preparation. For example, they could ask about the team structure, expectations in the first few months, or training opportunities.

How to Conduct a Good Job Interview?

A successful job interview requires thorough preparation and respectful communication. Both employers and candidates are required to contribute.

Tips for Employers:

1. Preparation is key: Read the application documents carefully and consider targeted questions.

2. Create a pleasant atmosphere: Candidates should feel comfortable to provide authentic responses.

3. Present the company convincingly: Why should candidates choose you? Share information about your company culture and development opportunities.

4. Maintain structure: A good process consists of greeting, presenting the company, asking questions to the candidate, and finally a Q&A session for the candidate.

5. Provide honest feedback: Explain what the next steps will be and give a realistic assessment of the process.

Tips for Candidates:

• Research the company thoroughly: Check out the website, social media, and recent press releases.

• Prepare a compelling self-introduction: Short, concise, and authentic.

• Be confident, but not arrogant: Show motivation without appearing boastful.

• Pay attention to your body language: Open eye contact and an upright posture leave a positive impression.

• Prepare your own questions: Show interest in the position and the company.

Different Types of Job Interviews

Depending on the industry and position, the process of a job interview may vary. There are different interview formats that companies use as needed:

1. Structured Interview

In this format, a fixed set of questions is followed. This allows for better comparison of candidates. This method is particularly suitable for large companies with standardized selection processes.

2. Stress Interview

In this type, the candidate is intentionally put under pressure to test their resilience. This can occur through provocative questions or unexpected interruptions. However, such interviews are controversial and unsuitable for many professions.

3. Open Interview

This conversation is less formal and does not follow a strict pattern. It resembles more of a casual dialogue where the candidate can express themselves freely. This method is often used in creative professions.

4. Situational Interview

In this case, candidates must simulate real work situations and present spontaneous solutions. This method is particularly popular in assessment centers.

What Should Be Avoided in a Job Interview?

Errors Employers Should Avoid:

• An unstructured process that lacks a clear guiding thread

• Too many or overly difficult questions putting candidates under stress

• A cold, distant attitude that makes the company seem unattractive

• Lack of preparation regarding the candidate and their application materials

Errors Candidates Should Avoid:

• Tardiness or an unprepared appearance

• Too lengthy or evasive answers to questions

• Exaggerations or false statements on the CV

• Lack of interest in the company and no questions of their own

Conclusion: A Job Interview is a Mutual Getting to Know Each Other

A job interview is not a testing situation, but a mutual getting to know each other. Employers and candidates should be equally interested in finding out if they fit together. Companies need to present themselves as an attractive employer, while candidates should leave an authentic and well-prepared impression.

Those who are well-prepared, communicate on equal terms, and show interest have the best chances of a successful interview – and ideally, for a long-term, successful collaboration.