The Interview
You’ve researched the company, you understand the requirements of the job and self reflection has highlighted your strengths, skills and experience. Now it’s time to fine tune your interview techniques prior to the big day.
Presentation
For the interview, regardless of whether it is virtual or face to face, it is important to dress for the occasion. Be smart but also comfortable. Your definition of smart is correct.
It is common to be nervous before your interview. After all, this could be an interview for your dream job. The 4-7-8 breathing technique is a good method for calming nerves. The technique involves breathing in for 4 seconds, holding your breath for 7 seconds, and exhaling for 8 seconds. Why not give it a go!
Arriving on time is important. Therefore, make sure you arrive at the venue or within close vicinity in good time. If the venue is in a city or close to a coffee shop grab a hot drink, sit down and look over the notes you have prepared.
Communication
Clear communication is critical during your interview, this means avoiding overcomplicating answers and rambling. To ensure you clearly communicate the answer, listen to the interviewer’s questions and take the time to understand what is being asked of you. Don’t rush to answer the question. Ask if you need the interviewer to repeat the question or confirm you have understood the question.
STAR Technique
Most engineers like a process therefore, don’t look past the STAR technique. This method helps when answering a question. STAR is the abbreviation for Situation, Task, Action and Result. By using each step to answer your question it helps structure your answer by; setting the scene (Situation), outlining the goal (Task), explaining the steps you followed (Action) and finally revealing the outcome (Result).
Situation - Describe the situation and the background.
Task - What was the goal, what needed done and why?
Action - What did YOU do?
Result - What was the outcome of YOUR actions?
If you have read the article “Interview Preparation”, you will have created example questions as part of your preparation. Using the STAR technique, practice answering your example questions in a structured way.
The Sector Specific Questions
Before the interview, it is important to read up on the latest news in the sector you are looking to join. It isn’t uncommon for the interviewer to ask you sector specific questions, indirectly related to the job. For example, you could be asked “do you know the current price of a barrel of oil?” or “where was the first nuclear power station constructed in the UK?" or “how much electricity was generated by offshore wind last year?”.
If you don’t know the answer to these types of question, it's ok to answer “sorry, I don’t know”. If you don’t know, it's a good opportunity to ask the interviewer the answer. This way you can show interest and learn something new.
Final thoughts
Stay calm - You’ve prepared well for the interview. Take confidence from the companies desire to interview you, after all they want to know more about you. Try and remain composed and maintain your professionalism, even when faced with challenging or unexpected questions.
Listen - Listen attentively to the interviewer’s questions, ask for clarity or for the question to be repeated to ensure you understand what is being asked of you.
STAR technique - Remember Situation, Task, Action, and Result will provide clear structure to your answers.
Ask questions - Find out more about the company, job and how they will support you on your development journey.
Mastering interview techniques requires preparation, effective communication, and adaptability. These skills and techniques will help you confidently navigate interviews and position yourself as a top candidate for your desired role.
Remember, each interview is a learning opportunity, regardless of the outcome, so embrace the process and continue striving for success in your career journey.