Middlesex University Interview Questions & Answers

Upon completing the application I was invited for an interview via email (unfortunately I could not attend the initial interview date, however the panel agreed to change the date for me). Upon arrival I was welcomed into the interview room where a panel of three colleagues were waiting for me. They offered me a seat, a drink of my choice and asked several nerve-quenching questions such as "How are you?" and then we proceeded to some friendly banter.

Once the tension had been broken, the panel alerted me that the interview would now officially begin. The first question they asked is one which I am asked by all employers: "Why do you want THIS job?". This question is something that you must spend time preparing for as anyone who brings someone into their business must be assured that it is that particular job role you care about above any other.

The three colleagues took in turn to ask many other typical questions such as "If you were offered the job, what are the positive impacts you would have?" and "Say for instance you were in crisis situation 'x' (relating to the job role), how would you respond and who would you report to?".

If you are reading this and truly seeking valuable advice, mine would be that if you honestly care about the graduate role you are going for: you absolutely must take the time to prepare a portfolio demonstrating what you can bring to the position and how you can make a positive impact. And unless you are going for a change-management consultancy role, never tell the employer how you think they could improve (assume they are happy with the way they do things). There will be plenty of time for your valuable input on change!

The most difficult question that I was faced with during that particular interview was "What are the three most exciting aspects about the job role?". I know this is pointing out the obvious, but make sure you know the job specification inside-out before entering the interview. Luckily I had prepared at least two answers for every question that I could think that they would ask (always prepare at least two).

If you are applying for the company you must get across a friendly and academic approach. You have to demonstrate that you are approachable by students, and that you will also be seen as a professional academic figure. It is also vitally important that you show a full appreciation for the job role and express what it means to you and your career development (preferably a long and prosperous career with the company).

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