Nowadays, it’s relatively easy to go job hunting. Unlike before where everyone had to go around offices in the metro just to leave their resumes on the doorsteps, today (thanks to the internet), all you have to do is type in some keywords and email your resume over. With a lot of job search websites, you’re sure to find dozens of job opportunities on the web.
However, when your phone rings or you get an email back from one of the recruiters, giving you an interview schedule, that’s when all those feelings of fear surface. What do I wear? What should I say? What if they ask about topics I know nothing about?
Breathe, rookie.
Before the interview, here’s what you should do:
- Learn more about the job you’re looking to get. What are the responsibilities and the requirements? Chances are, the company has already deemed you posses the basic requirements they’re looking for which is why you actually got a call. But what they want to know is what can you bring to the table? Why do you think you’re the best person for the job?
- Learn more about the company. Research the company so you can be familiar with the kind of work that they do. How can you position yourself as the best person to do the job when you don’t know what the company actually does, right? Go to the company’s website and take as much information as you can to show your interviewer that you really are the perfect fit for them.
- Practice interviewing. Ask a family member or a friend if they can help you practice. Some of the most common questions you get are:
- Tell me something about yourself.
- How did you learn about the job?
- What do you know about the company?
- Why do you want the job?
- What are your strengths or weaknesses?
- Tell us about a challenge or conflict you’ve faced at work or school and how you dealt with it.
- Where do you see yourself in five years?
- Do you have any questions for us?
- Dress appropriately. You don’t have to be all formal and show up in a suit but it wouldn’t hurt to dress simple and professional during your interview. Search on the web what business casual attire is. It also helps to bring a jacket or a blazer since most offices are way too cold.
- Get directions and do not be late. Make sure you know where you’re going! Being late is a big no-no. If you need a ride, schedule it ahead of time. Plus, with Manila’s horrible traffic, it’s best to leave way early to avoid the crazy rush hour.
Preparations are always necessary in whatever we choose to do. If you’re fully prepared, you don’t have anything else but your nerves to worry about. But we’ll talk more about that on Part 2: First Job Interview Tips – What To Do During the Interview.
