Impressive Interviews

This review gives a verdict on the book based on three options:

• Bypass: Little of value. Give it a miss.
• Borrow: Some value but insufficient to warrant a purchase so borrow from a library.
• Buy: Valuable ideas and information, a worthwhile investment.

Title: Impressive Interviews

Subtitle: Your pocket-sized personal interview trainer

Author: Deborah Barit

Publisher: A&A Book Publishing

Nationality: Australian

Year: 2007

RRP: $19.95

Flavour: Practical tips and exercises based on experience training individuals and groups in interview presentation techniques. Easy to read and short at 112 pages. Deborah has Australian public service experience.

Verdict: Buy.

This book is for those who want some practical hints and tips on how to prepare for a job interview. It caters for both the public and private sectors, and while not providing information that is not available elsewhere, the book gives essential material in a readable form.

The main topics covered are:

• Thinking like an employer
• Research techniques
• How to answer questions
• Questions to ask and not to ask
• Personal packaging

Ms Barit provides timely reminders to 'think like an employer' and to 'think like an outsider', to avoid wishy-washy words like 'perhaps' and 'probably', to understand that there are no 'off the record' comments during an interview. Applicants may find the chapter on Great Answers to FAQs of interest as responses and tips are provided on questions like 'Where do you see yourself in 5 years time' and 'It is said low productivity and high absenteeism is a result of poor management. Do you agree?'

The book does not have an index nor a bibliography.

Dr Ann Villiers, learning guide, professional speaker and author, is Australia's only Mental Nutritionist® specialising in mind and language practices that help people build flexible thinking, confident speaking and quality connections with people. Visit www.mentalnutrition.com to learn more about Mental Nutrition. Visit www.selectioncriteria.com.au for free resources unlocking the mysteries of public service jobs.