In part 1 of this article, we discussed the basics of interview preparation—how to calm your nerves, what to wear, presenting yourself as professional, and planning transportation. Now, let’s focus on the harder part of interview prep.
In the federal government, almost all job interviews are structured. Each interviewee is asked the same questions in the same order, and all questions are job related, consistent with the Uniform Guidelines for Employee Selection. While follow up questions may be asked for additional clarification, in most instances, questions are identical for each candidate and the candidate may feel that the interview is rigid and inflexible.
This consistency is critical from the federal government’s standpoint in order to minimize the opportunity and risk of legal challenges to the process. Notes are typically taken during the interview and interviews are evaluated often using predetermined measures. Although interviewing in the federal government can be quite structured, there are some steps you should take to prepare.