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Job interview

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Congratulations! Your application was successful and you have received an invitation to an interview - an important step on the way to your new job.

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Go into the conversation well prepared

You have already impressed the employer with your application documents. Now the employer wants to know whether you fit into the team and what motivation you have for the advertised position.

You will usually receive an invitation to an interview with a fixed date.

The following tips will help you to prepare for the appointment with confidence:

  • Respond promptly and check carefully whether you can keep the proposed appointment.
  • Clarify in advance in which language the interview will take place. If you still feel unsure about speaking German, ask the employer whether an interpreter is available or whether it may be possible to switch to another language, e.g. English.
  • Find out who will be attending the interview so that you can prepare yourself as well as possible.

In some cases, the application process takes place in several stages. The first interview often takes place with the HR department. If you are convincing here, you will be invited to a further interview with your line manager.

The most important thing in the interview is your personal motivation and your interest in the job. The employer must realize that you really want the job!

You can prepare yourself well for the following points:

  • Write down key points about the important content of the job advertisement in advance.
  • Find out about the company, previous projects or the company's own products and current developments in the industry.
  • Think about what makes you particularly qualified for the position and how you can support the company with your experience.

  • You will be asked to give a brief introduction in almost every interview. Prepare a 2-3 minute overview for this:

    What makes you so special for the job and how can you add value to the company with your experience?

You should dress a little more formally for a job interview than in everyday working life. A blouse or business shirt is a good choice, while a suit and tie or a suit are not necessary for every job. Jewelry and make-up should not be too flashy.

Allow enough time for the journey to a personal interview. This will ensure that you arrive on time and in peace. But please don't arrive too early either. The interviews are often precisely planned and arriving too early can disrupt the process. It is best to be on site or logged into the online appointment about 10 minutes before the appointment.

Good preparation is also important for an online meeting:

  • Test your camera and the conference software beforehand.

  • Make sure that you are undisturbed.

  • Make sure that your internet connection is stable.

  • Choose a neutral background and log in in good time.

Also have your prepared questions ready as well as paper and pen for taking notes during the meeting.

Plan approx. 30 to 90 minutes for the interview.

As a rule, HR managers, line managers and sometimes also the management take part in the interview. Particularly in public administrations or large companies, people from interest groups are also present, e.g. equal opportunities officers, representatives for severely disabled employees or the works council or staff council.

How does the interview work?

  1. Arrival and welcome
    You will be welcomed and the content and procedure of the interview will be briefly explained to you.

  2. Introductions
    The employer will introduce themselves and ask you to briefly introduce yourself.

  3. Questions from the employer
    Now the most important part begins: you can prove your professional and personal suitability for the position.

  4. Time for your own questions
    Use this time to get answers to your questions.

  5. Organizational topics
    The general conditions such as working hours, salary, starting date, etc. are discussed.

  6. Conclusion and farewell
    Thank you for the interview. A friendly farewell and a positive last impression are important.

Note on costs

If an employer invites you to a personal interview, they must normally reimburse you for the costs incurred (e.g. travel expenses). However, the employer can also exclude the assumption of costs in the invitation. Please read the invitation carefully.

If you already live in Saxony and are registered as a jobseeker or unemployed, you may be reimbursed for costs (e.g. for application documents or travel expenses). Ask your contact person at the employment agency or job center before the interview which costs can be covered.

Our tips for a successful job interview

  • Be well prepared - Know your strengths and weaknesses and find out about the company.

  • Make sure you present a neat and pleasant appearance.

  • Remain authentic. Be honest and don't pretend.

  • Always communicate in a polite, positive and respectful manner! Never speak negatively about previous employers.

  • Be attentive and maintain eye contact with those present.

  • Listen actively and show interest. Ask questions if anything is unclear.

Now you are well prepared. We wish you every success!