I was
fortunate to be selected to be one of the interviewers for one of the top
business consulting companies in Uganda. It was an enriching experience
considering the fact that it has been a while since I last went for a formal
job interview. Together with a team of experts from different fields we set off
to interview eight candidates that had been shortlisted for the post of
National coordinator in a space of six hours. It was a mental and physical
marathon for both the interviewers and the applicants. I now share with you
some of the insights that stood out for me as an interviewer that could help
those of you seeking employment to adequately prepare for your next job
interview.
Be on time: it is an embarrassment to be late
for your job interview. It communicates a high level of unprofessionalism and
un-seriousness. It is better for you to get there early and wait for your turn
than have the panel of interviewers wait for you. One highly qualified
candidate almost got disqualified because she was slightly late. So prepare in
advance and be at the interview site on time.
Make a first impression: Dress to match the position
you are applying for. The first impression makes a lasting impression on the
people interviewing you. The looks do matter as much as your other
qualifications. Look professional and aim at impression your potential employer
by matching the image of the company you seek to work for by your presentation.
Be concise and precise: You don’t have the whole day to
sell yourself. As a matter of fact you have a few minutes to make an impression
so answer the questions in the most concise manner possible. Don’t waste times
with irrelevant details rather be brief and straight to the point. Less is more
in an interview so choose your words carefully to match the expectations of the
interviewers.
Think outside the box: I noticed some very good
candidates who disqualified themselves by quoting all that they had learnt in
school. The fact that you are shortlisted means you already meet the academic
qualifications so the interview is an opportunity for you to prove your
competence. Wow your interviewers with creative and innovative approaches to
the given role you are aspiring for. It is also important that you keep your suggestions
within the limits of the company mission. Interview is not a classroom exam so
no need to cram theories, what is important is the practical application of
those theories.
Do a background research: Take the time to study about the
company you are applying to so that you can match all your examples to the
given company and role applied for. It is embarrassing to quote examples and
illustrations that are totally out of context for the given company profile.
Gather as much research about the employer as possible and relate all your
answers to the scope of their work.
Long term perspective: Even if you are desperate for
a job, be sure to give a clear projection of your future plans if you are given
the job. Every employer is interested in the long term plan and sustainability
of their company so one of the ways to impress them is by embracing a similar
attitude and perspective. Show that you have a big picture of for your life,
career, professional and personal development.
Value proposition: More than the salary and what
you can get from the company, think about the value that you are bringing to
the company and make it clear in your explanations. Value can be vital
additional skills, networks, links and connections as well a new ways of doing
things. This makes you more of a partner to the company than a mere employee.
Think about what you can do for the company besides the stated job description
and that can make you indispensable.
Financial literacy: most companies are looking
for people who can multitask so acquaint yourself with all aspects of work
including basic financial systems and fundraising. Fundraising and resource
mobilization are crucial for the success of any company. Your experience in
this regard will get you high scores compared to your competitors. Be
knowledgeable and gain as much information about these work aspects. For
example have suggestions for how the company can earn more income or increase
its clients. This may be unsolicited but will show your commitment to the
vision of the company even before you get the job.
Fire back: Normally at the end of each
interview, you will be given an opportunity to ask questions. This is your
moment to connect with the interviewers, ask questions that are relevant, such
as when you could be required to start if not asked, salary scale and any other
questions deemed relevant to your successful transition into the job. Inquire
about safety precautions at work, staff development and other legal
requirements. These kinds of questions take a whole lot of courage to ask and
that is what will make you stand out.
Courteous: Remember to be polite and
courteous. Ask to sit when you walk into the room if not offered a seat, smile
at your interviewers and appreciate them for their time and efforts at the end
of the interview. Those small gestures of warmth and kindness will go a long
way in leaving an impression on the minds of your interviewers amidst so many
people being interviewed.
These
pointers will go a long way in preparing you to effectively handle your next
job interview. Each interview is unique and different so remember to be
flexible and to think on your feet. All the best as you aspire for your next
job.
Noeline
Kirabo
