Interview write up with Nomalanga Ndlovu
Last week we delved into the digital dynamics that are affecting the interview experience. It is clear that the digital interface allows recruiters to understand candidates before they call them for an interview.
As we continue to discuss about preparations for that ideal interview, this week we are going to talk about the simple mistakes that candidates make during preparation stage and entry stage of the interview and how to curb the mistakes.
Once upon a time, resumes (Curriculum Vitaes) used to be long and detailed, fast forward to today, your resume has to be short and relevant to your application. Thrive to reflect your education, experience and relevant skills to the job that you are applying for. The Resume must be simple and easy to read because your recruiter has minimal time to go through it.
Remember, there are other resumes that will still need to be considered, the longer yours becomes, the higher the chances that your recruiter will ignore it or be exhausted as they go through it.
Lastly, have a story line and clearly articulate your value of work experience, and back up your claims on the resume.
The resume should tell a brief story about who you are before you arrive for the actual interview because you have ten seconds to make a lasting good first impression.
When we meet people for the first time, ‘it’s lights, camera and action’ in the moment. The same principle applies when you walk in to meet an interview panel. Before you open your mouth, you engage in visual greeting mode in the room.
The following dynamics affect your visual greetings: outfit, facial expression, body language and your smile. All these do the talking before you open your mouth. What message does your outfit and your overall outlook articulate?
It is important to dress professionally if the company is a professional one. Do not be casual in an interview if you are not aware of the outfit culture and dynamics. If you are not aware of the correct dress code, call the Human Resources person and inquire, you would rather be safe than appearing in a wrong outfit which shocks or appalls the panel.
Never ignore business etiquette, it is a full part of your interview experience. Take note of the following:
1. Arrive early for your interview, it is important for you to familiarise yourself with your surroundings before the interview starts. If you can, take a short trip to the interview location a day before so that you do not have to worry about getting lost the following day.
2. Carry a professional notepad and pen to take notes of important components during your interview. Taking notes signifies that you find importance in what the panel is saying. Seek permission as well to take notes.
3. Carry relevant documents especially if you did not submit any prior to the interview.
4. Wait to be asked to take a seat. Always remember that you have been invited into the boardroom for the interview and waiting to take your seat is very important. If you do not get the instruction, ask if you can take your seat.
5. Treat the interview as formal by using the panelists’ last name even if you know them.
Imagine yourself as a Managing Director of a company and constitute the interview panel, what kind of candidate would you ideally be looking for? Would you hire yourself if you did not have enough company and industry knowledge? The least any candidate can do is to do their research about the company’s vision, culture, mission and values, just to name a few things.
Why would I hire you if you do not show an interest in what we are offering? We all have internet at our disposal for information. When you go for your interview, make it clear that you have taken time to do your research about the company.