Interview April 19, 2007

BEGINING  Show enthusiasm
MIDDLE  Build commitment
ENDING  End with hope

Attire:

Always plan what you are going to wear a few days before the interview. Ensure that you are dressed for your position and profession. If you are unsure, take cue from others in similar professions or industries.

Men: Suits are often unnecessary unless you are applying for a senior position. Usually, a simple tie, long sleeved shirt and dark trousers is adequate for men. Make sure that they are well pressed though.

Women: To achieve a professional and sleek image, don on a dark jacket with a plain blouse. Avoid accessories that may be distracting and clothes that are revealing and casual. What you wear says a lot about you!

 

        Documents:

Put your documents in a clear folder or file. Do not bring crumpled and folded pieces of paper to your interview. Avoid plastic bags or shopping bags. Carry a professional briefcase if possible.
 

Mental Preparation:

Always prepare yourself mentally prior to the interview. Get a friend to help you practice answering the frequently asked questions at interviews. Visualise the interview and see yourself succeeding in it. Be confident!
 

        Timing:

Never be late for an interview! Allow more than enough time for travel so you can get there more than 15 minutes earlier.

This is a checklist for your interview:

• Have you brought your important documents? (Resume, certificates and testimonials)
• Have you prepared psychologically?
• Are you going to sleep early for a morning interview?
• Remember to walk into the room with a smile on your face.
• Do not plan for anything after the interview. Your prospective employer may want you to meet other decision makers in the company.
• Do not fidget during interviews.
• Never bad mouth your previous employer.
• Do not fill all pauses.
• Be honest.
• Take note of your body language and facial expressions. Never fold your arms while talking or stick out your tongue when you make a mistake. 

  

        Frequently asked questions:

Q: What are your strengths and weaknesses?

A:

• Know your strengths, especially the ones that your help the portfolio you are applying.
• Back up your strengths with concrete examples of what you’ve done in the past.
• Explain why this strength may turn into a weakness at times.
   

Q: What do you want to achieve in 5 years from now?

A:
 

• Do not give any indication that you are eyeing your interviewer’s position!
• Be realistic.
• You may say that 5 years is a long time and you need more time to learn about the industry but hope that you could be in a position of responsibility if possible.
   

Q: Why are you leaving your current job?

A:

• Do not ever bad mouth your ex-boss.
• Answer truthfully but not in a way that’s self-damaging.
• You may want to say that you’ve enjoyed your job but the company is not able to give you more growth opportunities.
   

Q: What can you offer our company?

A:

• Try not to say you want to learn. This is of no value to the employer. Why should they pay  you to learn?
• Avoid saying that it’s due to your interest in the industry. This also means that you   could join their competitors.
• Say why you have selected that particular company.