Mastering Job Interview Preparation in the Finance Recruitment Market for the Not-for-Profit Sector
Navigating the job interview process can be challenging, especially within Not-for-Profit finance. Whether you are applying for an entry-level position or a senior leadership role, thorough preparation is key to success. This blog will guide you through the essentials of preparing for competency-based questions, answering with an outcome-focused approach, and formulating insightful questions for your interviewers. Additionally, we'll explore how to articulate your motivation for applying and why you are the best fit for the role.
Preparing for Competency-Based Questions
Competency-based questions are designed to assess your skills, behaviours, and attitudes in specific situations. These questions are particularly prevalent in the NFP sector, where aligning with the organisation's values and mission is crucial. Here's how to prepare:
Understand the Key Competencies - Review the person specification within the job description to identify the key competencies required. Common competencies in the NFP sector include relationship building, strategic thinking, time management, influencing decision-making and stakeholder management.
Use the STAR Technique - Structure your answers using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) technique. This method ensures you provide a comprehensive response that highlights your abilities and achievements.
Reflect on Relevant Experiences - Think about past experiences where you have demonstrated these competencies. Prepare a few examples that showcase your skills and how they have contributed to successful outcomes.
Answering with an Outcome Approach
When responding to interview questions, focus on the outcomes of your actions to demonstrate your impact. This approach shows interviewers that you can deliver tangible results. Here’s how:
Be Specific - Avoid vague answers. Provide specific detailed examples of what you did, how you did it, and the results you achieved.
Quantify Achievements - Whenever possible, quantify your achievements. For instance, instead of saying you improved a process, specify that you reduced costs by 20% or increased efficiency by 30%.
Link Actions to Outcomes - Clearly connect your actions to the positive outcomes. Explain how your contributions directly benefited the organisation or project.
Crafting Insightful Questions for Interviewers
Asking insightful questions demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and helps you determine if the organisation is the right fit for you. Consider asking:
Mission and Impact - Can you tell me more about how this role contributes to the organisation's mission and overall impact?"
Challenges and Opportunities - "What are the biggest challenges currently facing the finance team, and what opportunities do you see in the near future?"
Culture and Values - "How would you describe the organisational culture here, and how does it support the mission of the Not-for-Profit?"
Professional Development - "What opportunities for professional development and growth are available to someone in this role?"
Success Metrics - "How do you measure success for this position, and what are the key performance indicators?"
Articulating Your Motivation and Fit
When explaining why you are keen on the role and why you are the best fit, keep it simple and impactful. Consider the following 3-part structure:
Motivation AKA What’s in it for You? – Why specifically is the role a good fit for you? How will it advance your career? What enjoyment will you get out of it? How will it motivate you?
Alignment with Mission – What aspects of the organisation’s mission / values / goals are you motivated by and why?
Relevant Experience and Unique Skills: – What specific experience can you demonstrate to add value to this role? Why will that be a benefit to the organisation? What sets you apart?
By following these guidelines, you can approach your interview with confidence, prepared to demonstrate your competency, articulate your motivations, and showcase why you are the best candidate for the job. Good luck!
