- Tell me more about yourself?
- Can you tell me about your current/last job?
- Why do you want to leave your current job?
- What has been your greatest achievement in your working history?
- Why do you want to work here?
- Are you willing to travel for this job?
- Are you willing to relocate for this job?
- Our requirement is for someone who can multi task and wear many hats. Does this sound like something you are interested in?
- Describe a time you were working on a project, and your colleagues did not agree with you, how did you solve this and come to an agreement?
- How do you deal with difficult situations at work?
- When was the last time you were in a high pressure situation?
- What was the biggest challenge in your previous / current position?
- What are your strengths?
- What is your weakness?
- How do you handle a large workload?
- Why do you want to leave your current employer?
- How do you spend your spare time?
- How do you stay current or up-to-date in this industry?
- What is your definition of success? Of failure?
- What do co-workers say about you?
- What do you know about our organisation?
- What kind of salary are you looking for?
- Why should I hire you?
- Do you have any questions?
Tips for your answers
#1. Prepare examples demonstrating your skills
A great tip when preparing your interview answers is to think of situations where you have demonstrated your skills successfully. Get a copy of the job description and for all of the core competencies listed create an answer using a strong relevant example.
#2. Research the company
The most important thing is to be prepared for your interview and to research both the company in general and the area of work as set out in the job description.
#3. Plan your route
Give yourself plenty of time to get to the appointment – ideally you should aim to arrive 5-10 minutes early to give yourself a chance to look around and to relax.
#4. Be positive
Your interviewer will be thinking about what it would be like to work with you, so the last thing they’ll want to hear is you talking about your boss or current colleagues behind their back. Interviewers like to see someone who enjoys a challenge and is enthusiastic.
#5. Build trust
Remember that interviews are about more than just giving good answers; they’re also about building rapport and trust. And building rapport and trust is contingent upon more than simply words – body language and attitude are very important.
#6. Remember your body language
It is not what you say, but how you say it. During the interview, do not fold your arms and lean back or look to the floor! Sit upright and try to maintain good eye contact. Use your hands and lean forward when making a point. Many people cannot think and control their body language at the same time, which is why you need to prepare.
#7. Check your CV for possible gaps
Make sure you know how you are going to explain any time gaps on your CV.
#8. Be honest
If you don’t have an example for a question you’re asked, don’t try to make something up.
#9. Ask questions
“It’s reasonable to find out where the company’s going and where you will slot in. What do they see your goals being, apart from the money they’ll pay you?”
#10. Listen more, talk less
A good employee in education sphere should be a good listener at first place. That’s why it is more than important to present this ability in an interview. Listen carefully, do not interrupt the interviewers and speak to the point. Use rather short, but to the point answers. Do not forget to be positive. Schools are full of negative people…
#11. Dress to impress
What you wear speaks volumes about who you are. Prepare by dressing nicely and wear styles that are up to date. You want your possible future employer to see you in the best light, and if your clothes are out dated they may view you that way too. Put forth the effort to get the job you want by dressing accordingly.
Statistics show people wearing glasses are perceived to be more professional and intelligent.
#12. Show you love technology
Stereotypes abound about older workers, but never more so than when it comes to technology and innovation. If your previous job included work with technology, make sure the interviewer is aware of this. Let your love of change and technology be pronounced when you are being interviewed. This will show your age has nothing to do with the work you can bring to the table.
#13 Follow up
After you have completed your interview wait a few days and if you hear nothing feel free to follow up with the employer by asking if there were any other questions they may have or even directly ask if the job was right for you. Remember to always be tactful and respectful. If they see you are truly interested in the job you are more likely to be considered a serious candidate.
Be punctual, dress smart, always have an extra copy of your resume and smile.
Remember that if you want to succeed at your interview you must be confident and be prepared! Every interview is a learning experience and each one teaches you a little bit more about what to say and do and what to avoid. If you are unsuccessful then don’t be too dismayed – there is always next time and as your interview technique improves the more likely it is that you will get that job!
Best of luck!!!
What’s your experience with EA/PA interviews? Any other advice on how to prepare for them? Share your tips with us in the comments.
