You must have thorough preparation for the interview. You should know that many federal agencies follow the behavior-based interview technique that relies on the premise that past performance gives an idea of the future behavior. You will be asked in the interview to give specific instances that demonstrate your skills which may be a key to your job performance. These interviews are stressful. Practice and proper preparation yield dividends.
Here are some ways of interview preparation:
Get an idea of the interview
Any human resources specialist will be able to tell you about the interview. Find out from him as to how long the interview will be. Know about the format of the interview. How many members are there on the interview board? Who will be on the panel? Will the interview be in person or on phone?
Job responsibilities
Read the vacancy announcement carefully and list the skills needed for the job. Interview questions will probably be on the skills needed for the vacant post. For example the duties of an administrative officer are listed like: He has to perform tasks in the administrative management of the organization. They may include interpreting administrative policies, developing and implementing organizational policies, defining administrative requirements, and advising management on related issues.
On the basis of these duties, interview questions can be: Can you give us an example of how you had interpreted administrative policies, developed organizational policies and defined administrative requirements? Give us an example of how you had advised the management concerning administrative policies and procedures.
Resume and other documents
On the basis of your resume and other documents prepare a list of your projects and accomplishments to substantiate your claims. Prepare notes on your accomplishments and practice speaking about them so that you can confidently present them in the interview.
Know your core competencies
Core competencies are different from skills. A competency shows your ability to combine your skills to apply them to a particular scenario. You may be asked as to how you had solved management problems or how you had inspired others to work on a difficult assignment. You can prepare core competency questions by analyzing the job requirements. Be ready to respond to a question on working effectively in a tense or crisis situation. Government agencies are always under pressure of decreasing budgets and changing workforce. Be prepared to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to work in such situations.
Know the agency
Study the vision of the agency, its mission and strategies. Be ready to talk about impending challenges and what you could contribute.
Your goals
Be prepared to summarize your career goals. Federal interviews give an opportunity to give a brief interview and you can use it to highlight your mission, top level skills and interests. You can dwell on your dedication and accomplishments.
Practice
Make use of a video or audio. You should be able to speak with confidence and enthusiasm. This needs practice. Always lean forward while talking as that posture indicates that you are committed to what you are saying.
Make it clear that you wanted the job and you are the best candidate and you believe in the agency's mission.
