Five things you will be rated on at the interview

There is always an element of subjectivity in any human process, including job interviews, as Carla Harris, the Vice Chairman at Morgan Stanley will tell you.

As you prepare for your next interview, here are some insights into what interviewers could be rating you on, and how to make sure you prime these areas to ensure you succeed.

1. Your zeal

Your attitude will tell the interviewers a lot more than your words. This will manifest in the way you communicate and even how your application was put together. Be sure to display a ‘can-do’ attitude. Let the interviewers perceive you as someone who is open to learning and is excited about the job.

2. Communication skills

Communication is referred to as both an art and a science for a reason. In an interview setting, answer the questions exhaustively and articulate your experiences and what you bring on board in a balanced tone. Observe your environment and know when to pause, when to smile, when to give more detail and so on. You are likely to work as part of a team and your interviewer needs to know that you can perform your duties well.

3. Capacity to execute

Make sure you study the job advertisement well, understand what role you are applying for, the job description and any other details you need to know. You could bring your CV and supporting documents just in case you need to refer. The interviewer needs to see that you have a good grasp of the job at hand.

4. Strategy

Experts advise that you use the experience+learn=grow model when answering questions during an interview. How it works: Demonstrate professional experience related to the question you have been asked, talk about the lessons you gained from that experience and finish by showing how this made you a better professional and how it prepared you for the job you are applying for.

5. Personality

Be sure to bring along not just your skills and competence but your demeanor and personality as well. As much as possible, try to come across as a genuine person who is confident and has a sense of humour. Do not be afraid to let your personality shine through during the interview.

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