Ace that Interview
by Siew Ching Chua
You've finally got that interview - now what? Want to ace it so the job is yours? Follow our valuable tips on how to create a winning impression. By Siew Ching Chua.
Being called for an interview means one thing - the prospective company has viewed your CV and likes what it sees. That's a huge plus for you! All that matters now is how you perform at the interview.
Confidence can help you get that job, but it's not just about carrying yourself well.To seal the deal? It's what you do before, on the day of the interview and after that counts. BEFORE THE INTERVIEW To get a winning edge over other candidates, you must prepare for the interview.
1. It's homework time
Learn as much as you can about the company. Google the company to see if it has a website where you can get invaluable information. Learn about the industry the company is in and its competitors.That way, you are well-versed not only in the company, but also the business it is doing. The more you know about the company, the easier it will be to tackle the interview questions.Your potential employer will be impressed with how much you know, giving you additional points for doing your homework.
2. Details, details, details
Always confirm your interview time the day before.Make sure you know where the office is - the last thing you want is to be late, as this will create a bad impression. If you are unsure of the location, go for a test drive the night before. That way you are certain of the directions and will be there on time the next day. Remember what you wrote in your cover letter and CV as you will be asked to elaborate on certain points during the interview. Be prepared to answer additional questions, especially about your qualifications and achievements. Go through the
| Learn about the industry the company is in and its competitors. That way, you are well-versed not only in the company, but also the business it is doing. |
company's job vacancy advertisement again so you know what personal traits the company wants. That way, you can skew your answers towards what it wants. Don't arrive at your interview emptyhanded. Make sure you have a pen, your application letter, CV, academic certificates and other relevant documents.
3. Give it a practice run
Every interview is different, but there will always be standard questions the interviewer will ask. Here are some examples:
- Tell me more about yourself.
- Why did you apply to us?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- What extra-curricular activities did you participate in at university?
- Tell us why we should hire you.
Practise various ways to answer these questions. Ask a friend to “interview” you so you can practise your answers and how to present them. But make sure you are comfortable and spontaneous: a potential employer can spot a rehearsed interview miles away.
4. Casual? No! Well-groomed? Yes!
First impressions count - and this is especially true during a job interview. Consider carefully the image you want to portray. If you're thinking of a professional industry like banking, then it's a good idea to invest in a suit or smart business wear. Going for the creative line? That doesn't mean you can be casual - be professional in how you look, but add nuances of creativity in your accessories.
The general rule is to look presentable - nothing too drab, but nothing too outlandish, either. For men, a long-sleeve white or lightcoloured shirt with a tie is best. Choose dark coloured trousers and avoid jewellery like nose- or ear rings - you don't want to scare off your potential employer! For women,
| Practise various ways to answer these questions. Ask a friend to “interview” you so you can practise your answers and how to present them. |
avoid clothes that are too revealing or too bright - you don't want to send out the wrong message. Stick to muted colours and comfortable, but stylish, clothes.
Don't forget too about grooming! Start from the top - is your hair neat and tidy?
Are your nails clean? Do you have too much makeup or perfume/after-shave? Don't forget a deodorant, especially if you're the type to sweat when nervous. It's always a good idea to gargle with mouthwash or chew on a mint gum before the interview (just remember to toss the gum away before the interview!).
THE DAY OF THE INTERVIEW
The most important thing is to be calm. Sure it sounds hard, but the last thing you want is to appear nervous and unsure of yourself. And the easiest way to beat the nerves is to be well-prepared.
1. Courtesy counts
Arrive at least 15 minutes before the interview. The extra waiting time will give you the chance to relax and collect your thoughts. If you are unavoidably delayed, call up to explain and apologise. Be polite to everyone the moment you step into the office - you never know who you may bump into and whether that person will influence your chances of getting hired.etting
The interview begins the moment you enter the room. The interviewer can tell right off if you are confident,well-mannered and pleasant, so be conscious of how you present yourself.Make sure you get the person's name right - if you are unsure, ask. It is also a good idea to ask for the interviewer's business card at the end of the session so you can write a thank-you note later.
2.The Q&A session begins
Most interviewers begin by asking you to describe yourself. Some will also ask casual questions, like if you had a hard time finding the office or how you are feeling.These questions are meant to see how you present yourself and how confident you are. Be yourself, but maintain a professional front even during such informal sessions.
Always smile and maintain eye contact. Don't slouch - sit comfortably, back straight, hands on knees. Avoid shaking your legs, gesturing wildly with your hands or looking everywhere else except at the interviewer.
Remember the person who is interviewing you already knows your academic background. The interview is to find out what sort of person you really are. Keep your answers short and sweet, but avoid one-word answers like “Yes” or “No”.
If you are unsure of an answer, don't mumble and say,“um, uh,well, err”. Instead, take your time and think before you speak. If you can't think of an answer, just say so or ask if you may answer it later.Your interviewer will appreciate an honest answer rather than one that does not make sense.
3. It's your turn to ask the questions
Most interviewers will ask if you have any questions.Don't just smile and say “No”. Prepare some questions, like “How many employees does the company have?” or “What training programmes are available?” That way you can find out more about the company and show your initiative in wanting to know it better.
| The interview begins the moment you enter the room. The interviewer can tell right off if you are confident, well-mannered and pleasant, so be conscious of how you present yourself. |
4. Money matters
An important question that will pop up is salary. While it is important, don't be controlled by it.Don't talk money unless the interviewer brings it up.
Do your research on market rates so you know what to expect. Listen to what your interviewer has to say about the job opportunities available and give reasons why they should hire you.With the deal in the bag, you can then discuss money matters.
AFTER THE INTERVIEW
At the end of the interview, thank the person and politely ask when you can expect an answer. The next day, send a thank-you note to the interviewer, briefly stating why you think you are the most suitable candidate and what you can bring to the company. If you do not hear from the company after a couple of weeks, telephone to check on the status.
| Don't talk money unless the interviewer brings it up. Do your research on market rates so you know what to expect. |
Interviews need not be intimidating if you are well-prepared. As long as you remain confident and composed, you have nothing to worry about. So take the time to prepare for the interview and make the best impression you can.
Good luck!
|
