Question

You work as a manager and have to interview somebody who has applied for a secretarial post. Use the prompts below to ask questions, as in the example. • experience • skills •fully qualified • married • overtime• ​

Answer 1

Interviewer: Good morning, thank you for coming in. Can you please tell me about your previous experience as a secretary?

Candidate: Yes, I have worked as a secretary for a law firm for the past three years, where I was responsible for managing the calendars of two senior attorneys, organizing meetings, and drafting correspondence.

Interviewer: That sounds like great experience. What skills do you have that would make you a good fit for this role?

Candidate: I am skilled in using various software applications such as Microsoft Office, have excellent time management and organizational skills, and can communicate effectively with clients and team members.

Interviewer: Are you fully qualified for this position?

Candidate: Yes, I have completed a secretarial course and obtained a certificate in the field.

Interviewer: Do you have any issues with working overtime if necessary?

Candidate: No, I am flexible with my working hours and am willing to work overtime when required.

Interviewer: Are you married or do you have any other commitments that would impact your availability?

Candidate: I am single and do not have any other major commitments that would affect my work schedule.

Answer 2

As a manager interviewing a candidate for a secretarial post, I will ask questions to assess their suitability for the role. Here are some prompts related to experience, skills, qualifications, marital status, and overtime:

1. Experience:

   • Can you please walk me through your previous secretarial experience?
   • What were your primary responsibilities in your previous secretarial role(s)?
   • Have you worked in a similar industry or with a similar type of organization before?
   • Can you provide examples of how your past experience has prepared you for this position?

2. Skills:

   • What specific skills do you possess that make you a strong candidate for this secretarial role?
   • Are you proficient in using office productivity software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Suite)?
   • How would you rate your typing speed and accuracy?
   • Do you have experience managing calendars, scheduling appointments, or coordinating meetings?
   • Are you comfortable handling phone calls and managing email correspondence?

3. Qualifications:

   • Are you fully qualified for this secretarial position in terms of education and certifications?
   • Have you completed any relevant secretarial or administrative courses or training programs?
   • Do you have any specialized knowledge or certifications that would be beneficial in this role?

4. Marital Status:

   • While it is illegal to discriminate based on marital status, we do sometimes require employees to work overtime or adjust their schedules. Are you comfortable with potential schedule adjustments or overtime work if necessary?
   • Is there anything in your personal life that might affect your availability or flexibility in terms of working hours?

5. Overtime:

   • Occasionally, this role may require overtime work to meet deadlines or handle urgent tasks. How do you feel about working overtime when necessary?
   • Are you available to work evenings or weekends if the job requires it?

Remember, it's important to approach the topic of marital status with sensitivity and ensure that your questions do not violate any anti-discrimination laws. Focus on the candidate's availability and flexibility rather than their personal circumstances.