How to prepare for a job interview
So you’ve applied for a job and been offered an interview, but what’s next? In this article you’ll find useful tips on what to expect and how to prepare for a job interview in Norway!
Before the interview
You should read up about the company on their website and look at their social media presence. Examine their work within the fields covered by the position you have applied for. Try to pinpoint suggestions for improvements or new measures you would implement should you get the job — you might get questions about this.
Carefully read through both the job listing and your own application letter. Are there unclarities regarding the position or the company? Write down your questions to the employer.
In Norway you are not expected to wear a suit and tie to a job interview, unless you are interviewing with a company where this is the normal work attire. Most companies do not have a defined dress code, but if you go for something within business casual, you should be on the safe side. Make sure what you wear is neat, clean, pressed and fit properly.
Special preparations for a digital interview
Install and test the digital platform in advance, if you do not have former experience with it. Sit somewhere you do not risk interruptions from others, and make sure you have fast enough internet access for video meeting. Avoid having a window as a backdrop, as this will cause your face to end up in shadow. Place the computer on some books so that the others can see you at eye level. Make sure there is no distracting elements behind you or use a background filter. Headsets provide better sound, but avoid a large headset that covers half the head.
Use the same dress code you would use for an interview in person. Avoid stripes, bold patterns or very sharp colors, as it can cause strange effects on video.
What happens at the job interview?
Usually, 2-3 people from the company will be present during the interview. First, a representative from the company will give a short presentation on the organisation and the position.
You will be given the opportunity to present about your own background, relevant experience and what your motivation for applying is.
In the question section, you will be asked to elaborate on what experience you have with various work tasks. You will also get questions about your personal qualities, such as how you prefer to work and how you deal with work-related challenges. You should of course try to give a good impression of yourself and your skills, but do not exaggerate or lie about your qualifications - it could easily backfire should you get the job.
At the end of the interview, you will have the possibility to ask questions. Perhaps you want to know what a typical working day looks like, what the working environment is like, or you might have questions about the hiring process. Make sure not to ask questions that have been answered earlier in the interview or request information which is easily accessible.
If the salary is not stated in the job application, you may be asked which salary level you expect. The employer usually asks this question to exclude applicants who have wage demands that are far above what they can offer.
In advance, you might want to investigate what the normal salary is for this type of position and for someone with your level of education and experience.
If the employer does not address pay as an issue, you should not do so either.
Tips for the interview
- Practice talking about your own background and motivation for the position
- Think through your strengths and weaknesses
- Read about the company
- Write down questions for the employer
- Look into the salary level
The employer is first and foremost looking for a person who is motivated by the work tasks, not the salary. If you are offered the job, you are free to negotiate a salary.
Practical assignments for the second interview
Some employers only conduct one round of interviews, while others invite the most relevant candidates for a second interview. For a second interview, you can get a job-related assignment/ case, which should be solved in advance of the interview. You may also be asked to take a personality test. In the interview, your answer to the assignment or personality test will be a starting point for further discussion.
You may be given tasks to solve on the fly in the interview. Some employers have group interviews where several candidates are required to work together to solve a task.
If you are invited to a second interview, you will usually receive information about how it is set up. If not, feel free to ask!
