Interview preparation: the job description

As soon as you decide to apply for a job, you should remember to download all of the available information about the role onto your computer because the web link could be taken down at any time.

Learning about the role

When applying for a role, avoid skipping past the section marked ‘Introducing the role’ because it often contains useful information about the culture of a company, where the role fits within the organisation and its corporate values.

But be aware that an NHS role will require a different interview preparation approach to one based in a private practice, as would working for a large retail chain versus a small independent.

Tell me about yourself is one of the most frequently asked questions in the interview process and you will need to tailor your answer to the specific role, culture and organisation that you are applying for

Tell me about yourself is one of the most frequently asked questions in the interview process and you will need to tailor your answer to the specific role, culture and organisation that you are applying for.

Look for the implied characteristics and core competencies related to the role that you are applying for and ask yourself ‘how do I do this?’ for every element listed. During this process, you should consider the following:

• Discussing vision-related matters with patients, offering advice and reassurance and referring the patient
• Making the most of all sales opportunities whilst working towards achieving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

Both require the core competency of communication. The first needs the ability to convey complex medical information in an easy to understand format. It also means being able to ask questions to ascertain the necessary information and give advice in a relaxed, calm and friendly manner. The second is more orientated towards customer service and the ability to promote other services and products to achieve KPIs, without giving a ‘hard sell.’ 

Face up to gaps in your CV, skill set and experience and prepare how you are going to answer questions on them

Ahead of the interview, think of specific examples that demonstrate your abilities. For the first element above, consider customers who were particularly nervous which made the consultation more challenging, and answer how you used your communication skills to resolve the issue.

For the second, find quantifiable information regarding your performance versus set KPIs in your previous role.

Think ahead

Brainstorm the type of questions that you may be asked around each element or competency, such as: ‘Tell me about a time when you had to use your communication skills to reassure a nervous customer’ and ‘In the last 12 months how often have you achieved your targets?’

Also, highlight areas where you might not match the criteria. Face up to gaps in your CV, skill set and experience and prepare how you are going to answer questions on them. Ignore these at your peril.

CV Writers offers career counselling and interview coaching, as well as support with CVs, LinkedIn profiles and cover letters. They also provide a free CV review service via their website.