interview phobia!help

interview phobia!help

by: megan - 04-04-08 21:51

i moved to a new part of the country 2 years ago and have not been employed in childcare for those 2 years, I am now trying to get back in. my application forms are fine and I always get an interview i have 20+ years experience inc deputy manager of local authority nursery but in interviews i go completely blank! and behave like a complete idiot, i really want some sort of family support work P/T but i find the questions at interview vague and ambiguous ,example-tell me about your experience with families,- I have worked with families for 20 years, how long have they got and which bits are the bits they want to hear about?? they are all relevant to me and of equal importance.Where can I get help with interview technique? and why cant my expereince and references be taken into account more than the interview.

by: Annie

All interviewers accept that candidates are nervous and actually an over confident candidate can really 'get up one's nose'.Listening to your answers gives the interviewer a 'feel' of what you are like and whether you can think on your feet. Communication skills are very important in the care field and so interviews are important. I also gave written questions on the interview day and this always highlighted those whose application forms had been filled out by with other than the candidate. Children deserve the best staff and to employ them by putting your feelings first would not be acceptable. However, I would suggest deep breathing to calm you down and the use of a clarifying question. When asked 'Tell me about your experience with families' you could smile and say " Oh there's so much to say, where would you like me to start?"  This will give you thinking time but you should simply pick out the highlights e.g. My job of late has focussed mainly on....... I particularly enjoy working with     age group / parents etc . last week we had a summer fayre and my job was to be in charge of... that was fun." tell it how it is and don't think you have to make up a theoretical reply. They simply want to know that by employing you they will get a good member of staff. Remember 20 years experience may only be one years experience, twenty times!