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The three phases of the job interview

What preparations can I make for the interview? How should I behave during the interview? What can I do to make a positive impression after the interview? These questions are on the minds of many jobseekers as soon as they are invited to an interview. In an interview with David Luyet, Head of Talent Attraction, and Stefan Tscherfinger, Talent Attraction Manager, the two Swisscom HR experts share their personal recommendations on the three phases of the job interview.

By Ines Petrovic, Former Junior Online Marketing Manager (Employer Branding)

Phase 1: Before the interview

I: What can the invited applicants do before the interview to make a good first impression?

David: Of course, preferences are individual, but I really appreciate it when I realise that the candidates have prepared themselves for the interview. I've already had applicants who only referred to Swisscom as a telecommunications company. If you are interested in a job at Swisscom, you should be aware that we are also one of the largest IT employers in Switzerland. I don't expect candidates to know key figures by heart, but they should have a broader understanding of the company.

Stefan: I have often received enquiries asking where to apply, even though this is clear from the advert. That's why it always strikes me as positive when applicants navigate their way through the application process as described. This shows me that they have looked into the position.

I: How do you feel when candidates call you in advance?

Stefan: If applicants have specific questions about the position, they are welcome to pick up the phone. However, in my opinion, just making a call so that you have already heard each other once does not add any value.

I: How flexible can applicants be when proposing dates?

David: We do not expect candidates to be available at all times. Nevertheless, it is helpful if candidates are flexible.

Stefan: If several proposed appointments don't fit, it's worth taking the initiative and pointing out your options. So far, I have been able to arrange an appointment immediately in most cases.

I: Can an interview be postponed or even cancelled at short notice?

David: In the event of an unforeseen, really important event or illness, it goes without saying that the appointment should be cancelled at short notice. However, it is important to me personally that you pick up the phone and inform us as soon as you realise that the appointment cannot take place.

I: If you oversleep, do you still have a realistic chance of getting the job?

Stefan: From my own experience, I can say that we have also hired people who overslept at the first interview. Honesty lasts the longest with such topics.

David: For me personally, it's more of a no-go. However, if the interview is outstanding, sleeping through it will not stand in the way of employment.

Phase 2: During the interview

I: What effect do candidates who appear in a "casual" outfit in hot weather have?

David: Basically, I welcome a business casual outfit. I would say that on a hot day at Swisscom you can definitely wear slightly looser trousers, but I wouldn't recommend shorts for a job interview at any company.

Stefan: If you are unsure, our Talent Attraction Managers will be happy to help. Some areas prefer a suit, for others an appearance in a polo is perfectly satisfactory. In all cases, however, it is important never to turn up in ripped jeans.

I: Is it preferable for candidates to have a laptop or notepad with them?

David: Most of the time, we at Swisscom sit there with the laptop ourselves, so we have no objection to a laptop. I think a tablet is a good interim solution.

Stefan: To be honest, I'm happy if the candidates have something to take notes with them at all. I don't see it as a disadvantage if you opt for a digital version, as long as you don't constantly stare at the screen and don't get distracted by new emails. Nevertheless, you should bear in mind that a notepad won't suddenly run out of battery.

I: How should you respond to questions about gaps in your CV?

David: It is an outdated attitude that gaps in a CV are something tragic. However, it is important to be able to name major gaps. In this case, gaps are absolutely legitimate; for example, if you have been travelling or looking after a family member during this time.

I: Are there any questions that applicants should rather not ask?

Stefan: Yes, that's pretty clear. If the first question is: "How much do I earn and how many days' holiday are there?", I find that very specific and question again what exactly the candidate is interested in. It's true that holidays and salary are important points, but I wouldn't start with these topics straight away. Otherwise it puts the motivation for the job in a slightly different light.

David: In principle, candidates can ask any question related to the vacancy. However, I agree with Stefan about the salary issue, as this will be addressed by the employer during the application process anyway.

3. Phase: After the interview

I: Is there a way to make a good impression after the interview?

Stefan: Candidates who actively listen and take the agreed "next steps" to heart leave a positive impression on me.

David: In my opinion, there is no real opportunity to influence the decision after the interview. If candidates would still like to submit feedback by email, I recommend reflecting on the interview and emphasising key impressions.

Are you ready to apply now? You can find our vacancies here.

Ines Petrovic

Ines Petrovic

Former Junior Online Marketing Manager (Employer Branding)

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