LETTERS: The Covid-19 pandemic has sparked one of the biggest employment crises in world history.
People were made redundant as the companies they were working for were facing hard times.
Things are improving at the moment but still, some find it hard to apply for a job. To a certain degree, it is all about how one does during the interview.
Here are some tips based on my personal interview experience with top airlines and luxury companies on how to succeed in interviews.
Generally, the interview process is the same. One must prepare and try to imagine the interview scenario and the results.
Before applying, there are some things that we need to put into the preparation. Most important for the first impression is always the resume.
Do create a proper resume that makes you stand out from other applicants. Make sure it is related to the industry that you are applying for.
Be sure to do your homework, do some research about the company you are going for the interview for the extra information can help to boost your confidence.
Then, practice some of the typical interview questions such as "Tell me about yourself, and why are you interested in this role with our company?".
Yes, dress formally. It matters whether you wear a suit or something less formal, depending on the company's corporate culture.
Also, before attending, it is advisable to contact the company and ask about the dress code if they did not mention it earlier on.
And, before entering the interview room, take a deep breath before going in, greet the interviewer and ask how they are doing before the interview begins.
Answer all of the questions and use the STAR method promptly, referring to S- Situation, T- Task, A-Action, and R- Results.
Talk about your job experience and try to relate them with the position you are applying for. Always listen carefully and focus on the questions that are being asked as it will be easier to understand and analyze.
It is always a good idea to follow up with an interview through email following the recruiting process, particularly if you believe the interview went well.
If you get the job, well and good. But, if you get rejected, don't be sad as it is part of the recruitment process. Don't belittle youself by saying to yourself that that you are not good enough.
Instead, take it as a learning process to be prepared for any other upcoming interview. Always be positive and remember God has planned something better for you in the future.
At the end of the day, getting rejected is better than getting hired for the wrong job.
DANIAL ABDUL RAHMAN
Faculty of Communication
and Media Studies
UITM, Shah Alam
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times