Job Interview Help

punkgirlyuk

Hi,
I have a job interview on Thursday and just wanted some advice on 2 questions that will come up and I am dreading answering! Firstly the job is and Admin position and is the first step into the career that I studied for, these jobs are very hrd to come by and I have been looking for 4yrs!

Anyway my work history is not very solid. Since leaving uni I have had 3 permenant and 3 temp jobs. I have been struggling with depression since the death of my dad and unfortunatly this has taken its toll on my work. My last permenant postion i was signed off sick after 1.5yrs and did not go back as they already replaced me! I was off for 6months then started temping for 3months, I was off about 2 weeks during this. I was then signed off again and have been off since October 06. I am recovering and have been looking for work for 2 months now. So what should i say when asked about illness and my patchy work history. I do also feel that I was a little dissillusioned at work as I had studied 3 yrs and not been able to get a job in my choosen industry and this was a factor in my depression (my father died while I was away studying).

Anyway, sorry for the long winded post. Any help appreciated.

cats_whiskers

Hi

I think it would be best to try to be as positive as you can. If you are asked introductory questions ie. " tell us something about yourself" then take this opportunity to tell them about the work you have been doing. Don't be tempted to give too much information at this stage, remember the recruiter wants to know about you in a work context, if you talk too early about your personal situation then the recruiter may think you will bring your personal issues into the office.

Also, try to pick up on the positive things you have been doing since you have been off work, have you acquired any new skills or interests. Above all sound positive about your time away from paid employment. Remember to emphasise that you are returning to work after a break because you want this job with this company and not just any job. Show that you have been looking for a job like the one the company is offering and that you are not prepared just to take any job.

You may be asked about how this job fits in with your long term career plans, as the recruiter will wish to know if you are likely to stay with the company. You will need to convey that you want to stay with the company and take advantage of career and training opportunities.

Whilst I am sure you have prepared for the interview, it would do no harm to do as much research as you can. Concentrate on your best qualities, try to give examples of your previous experience.

When asked about your illness, again it is important to present a positive picture and assure the recruiter that you are recovered and that it will not affect your work

Also remember you must have impressed them :eek: with your application form as they have offered you an interview so you clearly have something they want. it is just up to you to convinve them the person for the job is you.

Good Luck
Cats:j