Expert: See the interview as merely a conversation

Written by Paul Goatman.

Nervous interviewees should view the process as a conversation, rather than an inquisition, according to one recruitment expert.

Jonathan Alpert, a psychotherapist who provides advice on careers and workplace concerns, writes on a blog that people who get worried about the recruitment process should simply see it as a way to practice and hone their skills.

He advises people to just use it as an opportunity to learn about the potential employer, while they learn about you, rather than seeing it as a one-sided talk.

For those who tend to be negative in the process, Mr Alpert says they should focus on downplaying their weaknesses and when asked give examples of problems they have since fixed.

"You might say: 'In the past I've spread myself too thin; however, I'm currently enrolled in a time management course to learn efficiency.' Keep a positive tone and never bad-mouth previous companies or supervisors," he adds.

Placing yourself in the interviewers shoes may also help, such as when they ask how colleagues would described you pick attributes you would want if you were recruiting.

His advice is backed up by comments from Steve Miller, author of Change Your Life - Grab that Job, published in the Mirror, who advises candidates to avoid "slating" their previous boss as it may give the impression you are difficult to manage.

Aaron Wallis are a Milton Keynes Sales Recruitment agency with a unique service offering that includes 12 months rebate. Psychometric profiling and online skills testing are also included within a fixed recruitment price.

Filed: 03-04-2009