Be it a newbie or pro, there are interviews to score
by Rosaline Tay
I’ve been working at the same place for the last seven years, so you could say that I’m quite settled in. I’ve seen so many jittery candidates come and go; it’s almost like they’re on a conveyor belt. Honestly, I don’t know why they all look so petrified, but I remind myself that I must’ve been just as jittery 7 years ago.
Having participated in a few interview sessions myself, as interviewer and interviewee, I can safely say that you can chase those butterflies away by being prepared. Here are my top tips for interview prep:
1. Practice makes perfect
Employers have the same sort of questions, like ‘What is your 5-year plan?’ Be sure to practice your response to these sorts of questions, so that you don’t look clueless. It’s a no-brainer; no employer wants to hire someone with no ambition.
2. Be ready
Do some background research and learn as much as you can about the company you’re applying at. Employers like to ask ‘So, what do you know about our company?’ Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions. Also, bring along a nice portfolio, copies of your resume and pen with paper for note taking.
3. Be neat and tidy
You may be a bohemian chick or surfer dude in real-life, but for your interview, dress appropriately for the type of company you’re interviewing with. Also, don’t speak in slang, be formal in interviews.
4. Be punctual
This is another no-brainer ‘ be on time for the interview. Arrive at least 10 minutes early and if possible, learn the route to the office before hand, so you won’t get lost.
5. Stay calm
I think it’s important for interviewees to stay calm, maintain eye contact and be attentive” during the interview. There’s nothing worse than having an over-jittery candidate who can’t look at you and forgets the question 2 minutes after you asked it.
To top things off, be confident in yourself and remember that it’s okay if you don’t have all the answers. If you get really stuck, be honest and say you don’t know. Don’t try to be ‘clever’, because concocted answers don’t sound genuine. So, good luck at that job interview, we hope you get it!
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