Job Interview 101

Getting ready for a job interview but not sure what to expect?

Not to worry, we JIE -Job Interview Experts- are here to guide you through some simple tips to help you ace your interview and land that dream job.

Before the Interview

1.       Be prepared

-          How much do you know about the company that is about to conduct a job interview with you? Make sure you do your homework before attending the interview:

i.                     Collect information on the position you are applying for, such as the job nature and requirements.

ii.                   Do some research on the company’s profile, current and upcoming projects and get an insight of the company culture.

Don’t be lazy. The necessary information should all just be a few mouse clicks away!

-          Take some time to review potential interview questions and prepare possible answers. This should give you a framework of your responses and no doubt, it will help to ease your nerves during the interview.

-          Review the information on the application letter and your resume to avoid inconsistency.

-          Don’t forget you can ask questions during the interview. Prepare a few questions regarding the job or the organization. This will show that you are really interested in the job!

2.       Practice interviewing

Try role playing! Practice interviewing with a friend or family member ahead of time will actually help you cope better with the actual interview. This is especially useful if you are an interview-first-timer.  

3.       Skill Testing

Practice skills which are relevant to the post you are applying for eg. typing skills, computer software applications etc.

4.       Dress for success

Work on your first impression. The first judgment an interviewer is going to make is based on how you look and what you are wearing.

5.       Beauty sleep

Sleep early the night before the interview. You will want to look your best and be in good spirits.

During the Interview

1.       Arrive on time

No one wants to hire a person who is not punctual. Arrive on time for the interview, or even better, arrive at least 10 minutes earlier. This will give you a chance to collect yourself and compose your thoughts. Being on time shows the employer how serious you are in getting the job.

2.     Things to bring

When attending an interview, there are a few essentials you should have at the ready, especially if you stand a chance at being hired on the spot.

Checklist these essentials before you head off for your interview!

3.       Portray your confidence

Give the interviewer an impression that you are ready and confident. Here are a few ways how:

-          On the first encounter, offer your hand for a greetings handshake. Shake hands in a firm way.

-          When you are asked to take a seat, remain calm and hold your posture. 

-          Articulate and enunciate your words clearly

-          Maintain eye contact

-          Smile sincerely

-          Pay 100% attention and listen intently to what the interviewer has to say

-          Ask questions when in doubt or when necessary

After the Interview

-          Review on your interview performance. Although you may think you performed poorly, conduct a self-reflection. Make notes on how you can improve. That will be useful for your subsequent interviews.

-          You may consider sending a thank you card or email. In the thank you note, express to the employer that you are grateful for the application and interview opportunity. Emphasise on your interest in the job.

-          If a few days have passed after the interview and you have not heard from the employer, follow up with a phone call to see if the job is still available.

-          If you get called back for a second interview, then you’re on the home straight! You must have made quite an impression during the first interview. Avoid being overconfident though. You may need to further impress the interviewer(s) before they make the final decision.