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The federal government job hiring process uses a structured interview format in which questions are standardized and scored. As such, each candidate applying for the same position would be asked the same questions that are scored against criteria (called benchmark proficiencies) established for the position.

For example, the hiring manager will place a numerical number after your response to a question based on how well you demonstrated your knowledge and experience in answering the specifics of a particular area. This scoring system ensures that each candidate is evaluated based on a non-bias, quantifiable score.

Here are some tips to prepare for a federal interview:

1. Have a one-minute response ready when asked, “Tell me about yourself” that: touches upon your life and how it relates to the position for which you are applying, makes a connection as to why you are the best candidate for the job and concludes with the qualities you will bring to the job based on your life experiences.

2. Be prepared for questions seeking specific competencies that match the skills and requirements of the position for which you are applying. You should be ready to discuss in detail your education and work experience, training and career aspirations. Illustrate your ability to work as a team member and your potential for growth and leadership.

3. Your behavior as you respond to the questions will also be judged, so watch your oral communication (talk slowly and confidently and avoid “um’s and uh’s”). Also be mindful of your posture, eye contact and hand movements.

4. Be ready to respond to situational questions, such as “What would you do if faced by this situation,” as your responses give the hiring manager a good perspective on how you will address a similar situation that arises on the job. It’s best to relate your response to a past experience where you demonstrated competency in addressing it.

5. Be prepared to respond to questions that ask you how you performed a particular job task. These questions will be evaluated as to how you will perform the requirements of the job at hand.

This entry was posted on Saturday, January 17th, 2009 at 3:55 am and is filed under Federal Jobs. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.