Preparing for a job interview

The job interview is a way for potential employers to:

• Review key points of your resume with you
• Find out more about your knowledge and skills
• Get to know you

It's also a way for you to:

• Show what you know and demonstrate your interest
• Let them know what you're looking for and what you expect
• Learn more about the position, the work environment and the employer

Find out about the job and the company

To make sure you're making the right choice, ask yourself these questions:

• How does this job fit in with my career goals?
• Why do I want to apply?
• What type of challenge does this job present?
• Why do I want to work for Desjardins Financial Security?
• What would I bring to the company?

The job description and our website can help you find answers to these questions.

Know yourself

The interview will go more in-depth than your resume. The better you know yourself, the easier it will be to answer the questions – especially the ones that catch you off guard!

Go over your strengths and skills, as well as your limitations, by answering these questions:

• How has my training helped prepare me for this position?
• What knowledge and skills do I have that can be transferred?
• Which job have I enjoyed the most? Why? The least? Why?
• Which responsibilities or duties do I have that are the same as or similar to those of this job?
• What are my greatest strengths, and how have I developed them?
• What are my weaknesses? How and when do they manifest themselves? How have I succeeded in overcoming them? What has this taught me?
• How would my colleagues, clients and superiors describe me?
• What do I expect from a new job? A new boss? A new team?

Ace your interview

Apply these basic principles for a great interview:

• Arrive on time;  you expect to be late, provide as much notice as possible
• Wear business attire appropriate
• Offer a firm handshake
• Be honest and be yourself – don't show off, but don't underestimate yourself, either
• Take your time before you answer
• Keep your answers clear and concise
• If anything is unclear, feel free to ask
• Ask questions about the job or the selection process, rather than working conditions