IT Interview - what should I expect?

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bijou

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Hello all,
Can anybody give me any pointers?? I have been called for interview as an IT Assistant and am wondering how I should be preparing myself for it. I have always worked in customer service/admin and really fancy a change in direction, hence my applying for the above, I was very suprised to be called for the interview as I thought the cv would go straight in the bin:eek:
So now am feeling quite nervous and wondered if anyone could give me any advice/tips??
thanks - bijou
 
Re: IT Interview - what should I expect??

Hmmm IT Assistant.

I would imagine that involves setting up Outlook/Exchange accounts, installing software, making sure software is uptodate, keeping track of software licenses, and general troubleshooting skills.

If you opened a PC could you point out which bits are the RAM, which bit is the hard disk, etc.?

Have you used Vista?

Do you know what Linux is?

The fact that they've called you to the interview (assuming they've read your CV!) would suggest they are looking to fill a junior role and are offering training.
 
I work in the support dept of a large US IT company. Also I am involved in our hiring process.

Typically we would ask candidates to perform some practical tasks on a computer.

So for example if they are applying for a "MS Exchange Engineer" opening, we would present them with a break/fix scenario and expect them to "fix" the problem we set on the server.

Also we give the candidates a 30-40 multi choice exam.

Mack
 
Hotdogsfolks - thanks for your reply.
What did you mean "hmmm IT Assistant"????
Yes I would know the "bits" on a PC if opened up - built one myself a few years back just as a little project.
As for Vista/Linux - have not used Vista (yet) and Linux I know is an operating system used by some large corps, but again have never used it (knowingly - have worked for some large co's in the UK in the past and 1 or 2 may have had it).
Don't mind if it is a junior position as it is an area I would like to go into.

Mack - your scaring me now:eek: mind you this is only a small outfit so hopefully they won't be hard on me;)
thanks again
bijou
 
:)

Didn't mean anything by the "Hmmm IT assistant" comment. That was me thinking and scratching my beard as I thought of my reply!
 
HotdogsFolks said:
:)

Didn't mean anything by the "Hmmm IT assistant" comment. That was me thinking and scratching my beard as I thought of my reply!
Click to expand...
:D That's OK - think I'm just nervous 'cos it's completely different to what I'm used to but you've given me a general idea of at least what to ask them so I won't sound like a complete eejit.
bijou
 
Is the IT Assistant Role in the User Support or Technical area? These would have different priorities and areas of expertise.

Having worked, and interviewed candidates, in both (and still am) I might be able to give you a few pointers.

If you gave a brief description of the job advert, e.g. role or previous experience required, it would help.
 
My Tips:

Be absolutely plesant and very very courteous
Honest [Yes Sir, I dont know, but I would like to learn it]
Show signs that you can share the load of work voluntarily

Dont be nervous, just give your best shot!
 
Find out what hardware/software systems the company uses and what you are likely to be doing and then try to do some suitable preparation. A prospective employer should give you credit for taking the initiative to find out relevant details about the company before an interview. Don't spoof, be honest if you don't know something if asked directly but make it clear that you have an interest in learning this stuff (at least if that is actually true!).
 
Thanks to everyone for your replies - sorry have not replied myself (have been away).
Well... i went, i was honest, i was pleasant (i hope) and they have now called me back for a 2nd interview with the main boss, must have made an impression on something i know absolutely nothing about. Luckily they want someone who hasn't a clue so they can train them from scratch. So... fingers crossed, thanks again everyone.
bijou
 
hire the attitude and train the skill
Click to expand...

Absolutely...assuming a reasonable level of intelligence you can become technically competent in this role in a decent time frame.
 
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