https://student.grablingo.com/materials_units/1946
1) Useful Expressions
- I will be conducting your interview today.
- What was it about this position that caught your attention?
- What do you find interesting about this position?
- Why do you want to apply for this position?
- What qualifications do you have?
- What are your expectations about this job?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Thank you for your time.
2) Dialogue Practice
Mr. Smith is conducting an interview for a new research assistant position.
A: Hello, Matt. I am Mark Smith, and I will be conducting your interview today. Have a seat, please.
B: Thank you, Mr. Smith. It's a pleasure to meet you.
A: I’d like to begin by asking, what was it about this research program that caught your attention?
B: First of all, I'm very interested in genetics. I’ve been trying to find a good genetics research program for about a year now. So, the moment I read about your program, I was genuinely interested. I believe the scale and importance of what you are researching are really astonishing, and I would like to be part of that.
A: I see. What qualifications do you have that would make you suitable for this position?
B: I’ve been an honor student my entire life and I’ve been a research assistant before, on a smaller project.
A: What would you say your strengths and weaknesses are?
B: I am very passionate and I care a lot about my work. I’m very ambitious and I want to make a name for myself in this field. I am also very attentive to details. As for my weaknesses, I can only say that I sometimes work to exhaustion and that can be detrimental to my health.
A: What are your expectations about this job?
B: I hope to be challenged as often as possible. I am hoping this job will offer opportunities for professional and personal growth.
A: Well Matt, this is all I needed to know. Thank you for your time and we shall call you soon to let you know the result.
B: Thank you very much as well! I look forward to your phone call. Good afternoon, Mr. Smith.
Check your understanding:
1. Why is Matt interested in the research assistant job?
2. Why does Matt think he is qualified for the job?
3. What does Matt hope to get from this job?
3) Discussion
1. Have you ever conducted an interview? If so, for what job? If not, would you like to?
2. What do you think are some of the most important questions to ask in an interview?
3. Are you a good judge of character?
4. How do you try to sell yourself to a potential employer?
