Congratulations you have been called for interview, but chances are you are not the only one. Here we provide Logical Staffing Solutions’ top tips for performing well at interview with the transportation, manufacturing and logistical industries in mind. We round off with 15 practice interview questions to get you feeling interview ready…
- Do your Research
Whatever industry you are hoping to secure a job in, you need to do your research on the company and the job before attending the interview. This will allow you to predict the type of questions that may be asked. Visit the company website and learn about the company’s projects, vision and ethos. Furthermore, have a clear idea of the job description in your mind and how it relates to your skill set and employment history. Last but not least, make sure you know how long it takes to reach the location, as of course being late is a disaster.
- Expand on your CV
The interviewers will want to know about your skills and experience. However, will already know the rough contents of your CV, so summerise your CV briefly and then build on that content with supporting ideas. Relate your skills and experience directly to the job at hand, and expand your answers by giving concrete examples of how you have demonstrated these skills in the past and how they will benefit the company in the future.
- Be Authentic
Being real is crucial for interview success. Employers, like most people, like honesty and authenticity. If you’re not sure how to answer a particular question, don’t panic. Respond initially with a phrase such as Hmm…that’s a good question, and give yourself a moment to think. Practice answering the questions listed at the bottom of this post, so you have a range of ideas to draw on if you’re asked a hard question. Above all stay true to yourself.
- Be Aware of Your Body Language
Body language is important at an interview. Greet your interviewer with eye contact, a smile and a firm handshake. When you sit down, keep a straight-backed posture, and keep your arms open at your side. Slouching, or crossing your arms can give the impression that you are either bored or defensive.
- Dress the Part
If you are applying for an administration, or high level role then a suit is an appropriate choice for your blue-collar industry interview. However, if the job does not involve any formal dressing a more casual look may be appropriate. Avoid being too casual though. In all cases, clean shoes and a collared shirt are a must.
- Ask Questions
We often forget that an interview is a two way process. Asking one or two questions at the end of an interview shows thoughtfulness, and confidence as well as keenness for the job. Furthermore, it shows you have done your research. It’s a good idea to have two or three questions in mind in case the interviewer has already answered a question earlier on.
- Practice Questions for Interview
Obviously interview questions will vary according to each job. However, here are 15 standard questions to practice at home and get you in the interview mood:
- Why do you want this job?
- Why are you suited to this job?
- Tell me what you think this position involves.
- What do you know about our company?
- Why would you like to work with our company?
- What can you bring to this company?
- Tell me about your experience in the field as it relates to this job.
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- What have you learned from a mistake on a previous job?
- Where do you see yourself in 2 – 5 years?
- What are you looking for in Career development?
- Describe a situation where you had to organize something/ fix something/ improve something.
- Tell me about your greatest achievement.
- How would your previous manager/co-worker describe you?
- How do you keep yourself organized for work?
If you’re looking for a job in the manufacturing, logistics or transportat industry then visit Logical Staffing Solutions today.
