THE INTERVIEW PROCESS IN CANADA

If you are seeking a job outside Canada and have resources and time to be present in Canada be p repared for the job interview and have a list of reference sheet ready just in case the interviewer asks for it. The goal of effective interviewing is to get the job offer.

Interviews are among the most challenging and rewarding forms of measurement. They require a personal sensitivity and adaptability as well as the ability to stay within the bounds of the designed protocol.. Having been through the interview process myself almost a decade ago, I found it to a different process. Questions ranged from terminology to work place culture. I remember self marketing and giving examples to support my resume.

Employers were relaxed and friendly and very keen to find out me not so much personally but professionally. I had a resume instead of a cv which no longer had my date of birth and personal information. Instead I had a whole section on called PROFILE on my skills, qualifications and experience. Canadian interview questions do not include questions marital status, religion and age. These are considered Illegal Questions as Equal Opportunities exist for everyone. However, you may find it hard first to apply for jobs if you don’t have the Canadian experience. In next issue of Canada News I will talk about this subject and give some advice and ideas on how to overcome these barriers.

This month I would like to share with the readers, The Canadian Interview process, including types of interviews, research, answering interview questions and asking effective and appropriate questions and the process of conducting the interview itself.

Job Interview Types

There are different types of job interviews you may participate in during the hiring process. Here are the major ones and tips on how to handle them.

Stress Interview

Stress interviews are a conscious attempt to see how you handle yourself. The interviewer may be sarcastic or argumentative, or may keep you waiting. Expect this to happen and, when it does, don't take it personally. Calmly answer each question as it comes. Ask for clarification if you need it and
never rush into an answer. The interviewer may also lapse into silence at some point during the questioning. Recognize this as an attempt to unnerve you. Sit silently until the interviewer resumes the questions. If a minute goes by, ask if he or she needs clarification of your last comments.

One-On-One Interview

In a one-on-one interview, it has been established that you have the skills and education necessary for the position. The interviewer wants to see if you will fit in with the company, and how your skills will complement the rest of the department. Your goal in a one-on-one interview is to establish
rapport with the interviewer and show him or her that your qualifications will benefit the company.

Screening Interview

A screening interview is meant to weed out unqualified candidates. Providing facts about your skills is more important than establishing rapport. Interviewers will work from an outline of points they want to cover, looking for inconsistencies in your resume and challenging your qualifications.
Provide answers to their questions, and never volunteer any additional information. That information could work against you. One type of screening interview is the telephone interview.


Lunch Interview

The same rules apply in lunch interviews as in those held at the office. The setting may be more casual, but remember it is a business lunch and you are being watched carefully. Use the lunch interview to develop common ground with your interviewer. Follow his or her lead in both selection of food and in etiquette.


Panel or Committee Interview

Panel / Committee interviews are a common practice. You will face several members of
the company who have a say in whether you are hired. When answering questions from several people, speak directly to the person asking the question; it is not necessary to answer to the group. In some committee interviews, you may be asked to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. The
committee will outline a situation and ask you to formulate a plan that deals with the problem. You don't have to come up with the ultimate solution. The interviewers are looking for how you apply your knowledge and skills to a real-life situation.


Group Interview

A group interview is usually designed to uncover the leadership potential of prospective managers and employees who will be dealing with the public. The front-runner candidates are gathered together in an informal, discussion-type interview. A subject is introduced and the interviewer will start off the discussion. The goal of the group interview is to see how you interact with others and how you use your knowledge and reasoning powers to win others over. If you do well in the group interview, you can expect to be asked back for a more extensive interview.


Telephone Interview

Telephone interviews are merely screening interviews meant to eliminate poorly qualified candidates so that only a few are left for personal interviews. You might be called out of the blue, or a telephone call to check on your resume might turn into an interview. Your mission is to be invited for a personal face-to-face interview.

Some tips for telephone interviews: 
Anticipate the dialogue: Write a general script with answers to questions you might be asked. Focus on skills, experiences, and accomplishments.
Practice until you are comfortable. Then replace the script with cue cards that you keep by the telephone.
Keep your notes handy: Have any key information, including your resume, notes about the company, and any cue cards you have prepared, next to the phone. You will sound prepared if you don't have to search for information.
Make sure you also have a notepad and pen so you can jot down notes and any questions you would like to ask at the end of the interview.

Be prepared to think on your feet: If you are asked to participate in a role-playing situation, give short but concise answers. Accept any criticism with tact and grace.

Avoid salary issues: If you are asked how much money you would expect, try to avoid the issue by using a delaying statement or give a broad range.

Push for a face-to-face meeting: Sell yourself by closing with something like: "I am very interested in exploring the possibility of working in your company. I would appreciate an opportunity to meet with you in person so we can both better evaluate each other. I am free either Tuesday afternoon or
Wednesday morning. Which would be better for you?"