November 3, 2025
teamwork competency question

How to answer the Teamwork competency question

Why do employers value team work?In a recent survey, teamwork and communication skills ranked amongst the top five qualities sought by employers.  Many companies are now focusing on team building as a way to differentiate themselves from their competitors in the belief that it will positively impact their bottom line.  They recognise that team work brings about synergy - “the sum of the parts being greater than the whole” and if implemented correctly, teambuilding can make a company more productive, increase staff morale and foster innovation. 
October 5, 2025
What are behavioural competency questions?

What are Behavioural/Competency Questions?

Behavioural interviews (also known as competency based interviews) are becoming increasingly popular in the contemporary recruitment process.  They are regularly used by Multinationals and the public sector and are seen to be a good predictor of future employee success.  As many “traditional” interviews have also started incorporating behavioural questions into their structure, it is important to be fully prepared for this style of questioning - to both understand what is being asked and how best to present your answers.
September 1, 2025

Mastering the Higher Specialist Training (HST) Interview

Mastering the Higher Specialist Training (HST) Interview The Higher Specialist Training (and indeed Basic Specialist Training) interviews are uniquely challenging. With a brief window of just 15 to 20 minutes, you must demonstrate to the interview board why you deserve a place in this highly competitive training program. To help […]
August 12, 2025
How to inject passion into your job interview.

How to inject passion into your job interview

“One person with passion is better than forty people merely interested.” E M Forster, novelist.Passion is a powerful force which allows us to perform at our best and achieve what we never thought was possible. It’s no wonder employers look for it in interviews.In my career as an executive coach, I’ve found that many of my clients struggle to show this side of their personality. Yet tapping into your energy flow is really important, as it builds a strong rapport with the hiring manager and influences key decisions in your favour.
July 1, 2025
Interview Questions and Answers on Communications Skills and Dealing with Conflict

Interview Questions and Answers on Communication Skills and Dealing with Conflict

Once an employer is satisfied that you can do the job, they will focus their attention on your communication skills.  Specifically they’ll want to know how you’ll interact with colleagues/ senior management /customers, how skilled you are at resolving conflict and how adept you are in the art of negotiation.  By anticipating questions that will be asked, you can prepare examples that show your competency in these areas and prove that you are a great fit for the role.
July 1, 2025
how to shine at a zoom interview

How to shine in a Zoom Interview

Hiring managers have adapted with speed to the new realities of social distancing and have moved from face to face to online interviews. To excel in virtual interviews, it’s important to realise that they’re a different beast. This new form of interview requires adapting your style in order to make them work effectively for you.Here are 6 tips to help you maximise your presence in virtual interviews and to make that vital connection with the hiring manager.
May 21, 2025
Answering the question, how well do you work under pressure

Interview Question “How well do you work under pressure?

How well do you work under pressure? Why do employers ask this question?In a period of economic instability, efficiency becomes a focal point for management and employees are often expected to take on more responsibility and a greater work load. Greater economic uncertainty means that traditional ways of operating are challenged, new ideas and practices are implemented; all of which creates unpredictability in what was previously a stable work environment.