At the interview
Have you prepared thoroughly for your interview and planned in plenty of time for problems such as traffic jams, rail strikes or bad weather? Do you know exactly what you find interesting about the job and what makes you the right candidate for Bayer? Then you can relax and look forward to the interview.
For us, an interview is an opportunity to get to know you and find out whether you would fit in with Bayer and the team. We want to find out about your expertise, experience and your practical, intercultural, social and methodological skills. We are interested in any voluntary work you do and how your career, studies or leisure activities have contributed to your knowledge, experience and skillset. No doubt you considered many of these aspects when you were preparing your application. Now you can tell us more about them.
Be true to yourself
It is quite normal to be nervous or unsure of yourself at an interview. What is important is to be yourself. If you are open and sincere, you will make a good impression. Perhaps you might even manage to end the interview discussing something positive. Naturally, you can ask questions during the interview. However, you should not ask about your chances of getting the job or the number of applicants.
Incidentally, conventional face-to-face interviews at Bayer normally last about an hour - depending on the interviewer and position. Normally, interviews are held by between two and four people: representatives of the relevant department or organizational unit and often a representative of HR. In some organizational units, you might have several interviews in succession and be introduced to prospective colleagues as well as your potential supervisor. If you need to plan for a longer interview process, you will be informed of this in the letter inviting you to the interview.
Tips for telephone interviews and Assessment Centers
A telephone interview is basically a shorter version of a conventional interview. It is therefore worthwhile preparing in the same way as for a face-to-face interview. If possible, you should take the call somewhere where you will not be disturbed or distracted. In video conferences you should dress appropriately and consider what your interviewer(s) can see in the background.
Assessment Centers generally combine structured interviews, group discussions, exercises, presentations and role play. They normally last for between one and three days. Rules for Assessment Centers: be relaxed and sincere, even if time is short. Most of the exercises cannot be completed in the time set. Trying to present yourself differently from how you are will take time and energy, and may not be very credible. It is better to consider your strengths and use them carefully at the Assessment Center.
