Interview Tips

JOB INTERVIEW TIPS/GUIDE

INTERVIEW ETIQUETTE BEFORE INTERVIEW
To show your interest in the company; read and research about the company and learn as much about the company so you will be appear well prepared during the interview.
Double confirm the date, time and place for interview.
Practice answering questions aloud. You may refer to books or information from the Internet for sample questions.
Ask questions to understand the job requirements and potential
Review or recall examples of your achievements.
Be prepared for unexpected questions.
Prepare several clean copies of resume to take with you. Interviewer may require more than one set. If possible, DO NOT photocopy resumes!
Arrange your documents and certificates, neatly, in a Clear Holder. (In chronological order)
Hair should be neat, clean and combed. Nails must be clean and trimmed.
Decide what you want to wear the day before the interview. Dress smart and formal. For ladies, wear light make up and keep it to a minimum.
Relax your mind.
Go to bed early the night before

ARRIVING AT THE INTERVIEW SITE
Avoid coffee. Caffeine may cause anxiety!
Brush your teeth.
Know the route and location of your interview place and the name of the interviewer.
Make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes early, get comfortable with the surrounding and find the restroom to adjust your appearance (If necessary). The extra minute will also give time to fill out any forms or application that may be required.
Review your notes.
Recall the practice answers and positive things you will say.
Relax! Breathe deeply and slowly
SWITCH OFF your mobile phone or pager.
Smile and head for the interview.

DURING THE INTERVIEW
Make positive and professional first impression by being assertive and giving a firm handshake. Make eye contact and smile.
Address each interviewer by name as he or she is introduced.
Reinforce your professionalism and your ability to communicate effectively by speaking clearly and avoiding "uhs", "you knows", and slang.
Use technical terms only when appropriate to the question.
Be polite.
Be enthusiastic.
Understand the questions first. Listen carefully.
Reply calmly.
Keep your answers brief, thorough and to the point.
Focus on your ability to perform the job. Provide concrete examples.
Always speak clearly and positively.

CLOSING THE INTERVIEW
Ask appropriate job-related questions.
Thank each interviewer by stating their names for the opportunity given
Find out when you can call to follow up.
Always depart in the same manner you entered.

INTERVIEW ETIQUETTE AFTER THE INTERVIEW
Write a thank you letter or email within 24 hours of the interview.
Review (Post-mortem) your performance.

INTERVIEW TIPS: DO’S
DO tell yourself that you deserve the job. You must convince the interviewer.
DO introduce yourself by name first. Look at the interviewer in the eye, smile and speak clearly. “Hello, my name is _________________. I have been looking forward to meet you”. Small talk at the beginning of conversation is fine, but keep this to a minimum.
DO keep your temper no matter what happens.
DO treat the interviewer with respect.
DO be polite and friendly
DO be alert throughout the entire interview.
DO sit straight and look at the interviewer. Make regular Eye contact.
DO take out your pen and small notebook to take down notes if necessary.
DO be specific. Emphasize on your qualification and your strengths.
DO ask for a business card from the interviewer for purpose of sending a thank you note.

INTERVIEW TIPS: DON’TS
DON’T exaggerate. Be yourself.
DON’T smoke (even if invited), yawn, eat chewing gum, chew your nails, and show anxiety or boredom.
DON’T look at your watch.
DON’T discuss equal rights, sex, race, religion or age.
DON’T flirt.
DON’T test the interviewer’s skills or ability.
DON’T condemn the company you are interviewing with.
DON’T ask about salary, benefits unless mentioned by the interviewer.
DON’T panic.
DON’T look away or looking down.
DON’T fidget.

REMEMBER: AN INTERVIEW IS A CONVERSATION WITH A PURPOSE


DRESSING FOR THE JOB INTERVIEW

GENERAL
Well-groomed hairstyles.
Clean, trimmed fingernails.
No visible body piercing or tattoo.
Clean, brushed your teeth.
Fresh face (facial if necessary).
Usage of unscented deodorant.
Mild perfume or cologne.
Conservative two-piece business suit (Solid dark blue or grey is best recommended).
Conservative long sleeve shirt / blouse (White is best recommended).

MEN
A long sleeve white shirt neatly pressed is recommended. Light colour shirt also acceptable.
Necktie with conservative pattern.
A suitable watch is acceptable.
Black or brown belt.
Clean, polished dark shoes (Black lace-ups are recommended). Make sure the shoes are clean and polished.
Dark socks (Plain black is best and NO white socks please!)
Neat/trimmed haircut.
If you have moustache, make sure it is neat and trimmed.
No earrings.


WOMEN
No tight, low –cut or revealing dress.
Baju Kurung is acceptable. If wearing Tudung, wear it neatly.
Skirt length should be below the knee.
Pantyhose should be near to the skin tone.
Low heels. Shoes should be black, navy blue or dark brown. Avoid trendy shoes.
Avoid wearing pants.
Wear low full covered heels. Shoes should be black, navy blue or dark brown. Avoid trendy shoes.
Minimal use of make-up.
Do not carry purse if you carry a briefcase.
Minimum jewellery