Can I refuse a telephone interview that takes place without prior notice?

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If you receive a phone call at the worst possible moment, you can and should ask to reschedule the appointment. However, you should proactively suggest alternative times straight away and also ask how long the call is likely to last. If, on the other hand, you are well prepared and have enough time for an impromptu telephone interview, there is no reason not to go ahead with the call and use it to demonstrate your competence and self-assurance.

How would it be received if I asked during a job interview what my chances are?

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Whilst it is understandable that you would like to know this, this question is nevertheless inappropriate in a job interview.
In most cases, the recruiter won’t be able to say anything about it at this stage, as there are likely to be other candidates still under consideration. Furthermore, you risk coming across as uncertain and casting doubt on your suitability. It is therefore better to ask about the next steps in the selection process, or when you can expect a response.

How can I prepare for a conversation that will partly be conducted in another language?

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It is particularly important to have the sections of your CV ready, along with a few descriptions of your roles, in the other language. You can find out which vocabulary is essential and which you should definitely be familiar with on the company’s website in that language. Look these up in a specialist dictionary to get an overview of the most important terms.

Why are case studies used?

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Through a case study, HR managers aim to assess how skilfully a candidate can deal with complex problems under time pressure. The task is always action- and decision-oriented. Candidates take on the role of decision-makers faced with a specific problem.

What are the key considerations when analysing a case study?

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The main aim of a case study in the selection process is not primarily to find a solution that is 100 per cent correct. Rather, you should demonstrate your analytical and organisational skills and show that you can deal with difficult problems.

My next job interview is with someone from the department. How can I prepare for it?

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This interview is likely to focus more on the specialist knowledge and skills that are essential for the advertised role. As well as preparing in general, you should consider:
– Which key terms from day-to-day professional practice should you mention during the interview?
– Are you clear about the company’s work processes, or do you have any questions about its internal operational procedures?

‘You’ve changed jobs several times. Why should we hire you?’

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Changing jobs is no longer unusual. So don’t respond to this question by appearing uncertain or guilty. Instead, use examples to explain why these particular previous roles qualify you for your current job.

What should I bear in mind during a group interview?

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In a group interview, the discussion takes place alongside other candidates applying for the same job.
Whilst self-confidence is important, being overly competitive can be counterproductive and may suggest a lack of teamwork skills. This is particularly true when a task is to be tackled collaboratively during the group interview. In such situations, particular attention is paid to the role you take on and how you communicate within the team.

After I’ve been asked a question, am I allowed to think about it, or do I have to answer straight away?

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If you answer straight away, people may suspect you’ve learnt your answer by heart. So do take your time to think of a suitable reply – especially if the person you’re talking to has caught you off guard with the question. This shows that you think things through first and give a considered answer.

Is self-description in a job interview the same as self-presentation?

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Although there is a certain similarity, the focus is different. A self-presentation is about briefly summarising your career to date and thereby highlighting the benefits a potential employer would gain from your previous experience and achievements.

Through your self-description, you show the company that you are able to reflect on and articulate your strengths and weaknesses honestly. You also demonstrate that you have prepared yourself for the company and the advertised role by ensuring that your strengths align with the expectations and requirements of the position.