Tips for Interview

Preparing for the interview

• Do some research to find out as much as you can about the job you are applying for and the company offering the post, e.g. duties and responsibilities, type of company and business, and organisational structure, etc.
• Be neatly and appropriately dressed. It is not always necessary to put on a suit. Have your hair carefully groomed. Girls should avoid putting on too much make-up and jewellery.
• Make sure you remember the time and the place for the interview. Never be late.(Arrive at least 10-15 mins before the interview.) You may pay a site visit before the day of the interview.
• Don't forget to take your certificates and references with you for inspection. Sometimes you are asked to bring both originals and photocopies.
• Be ready with facts about yourself- qualifications, schools attended, interests and hobbies, previous jobs (if any), and family background, etc. Rehearse at home and organise your points.

During the interview

• Neither sit nor start the interview unless you are invited to. When asked to sit down, say 'thank you' .
• Try to be relaxed and look confident. Look at the interviewers.
• Be courteous and greet the interviewer with 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon' .
• Listen attentively. Don't rush into answers.
• Answer questions clearly, directly and honestly. If you do not know the answer to a question, admit your lack of knowledge. Apologise with a smile.
• Do not show impatience even if you are asked to repeat everything you have written in your application letter. Sometimes the interviewer asks you these questions as warm-up questions. You should be happy because you know the answers already if you have prepared.
• Do not talk too much. The interviewer will wish to know if you can sort out the important things in life. Always beware of non-verbal signals from the interviewer.
• Do not talk about the salary unless the interviewer raises the subject. Some people consider it a very sensitive subject.
• Try to ask some sensible questions when you are invited to do so. You should prepare for this before the interview.
• Do not always ask when will be notified of the results.
• Make sure you understand the terms of employment before you agree to accept a job. This is particularly important if you are asked to sign a contract at the end of the interview.