~ Job Interview Survivor Skill~ *Very Important

This is the most important lesson I've learned during my Poly days.... If you are looking for a job or always fail to get through the interview, read on to find out your problem and get some tips.

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The purpose of a job interview is to ascertain the capability of a candidate and his suitability for the job applied for. The interviewer does this by observing the candidate's behaviour and listening to what he says and how he says it.

Here are some tips to help you communicate confidently at a job interview:

A. Show that you respect the interviewer and his time through your observable behaviour :
Dress appropriately and be punctual.
Observe common courtesies as knocking before entering the room, shaking hands only when a handshake is offered and sitting down only when invited to do so.
Maintain a calm yet interested posture. Sit up straight leaning slightly. Avoid nervous fidgeting or shaking of legs.

B. Persuade the interviewer that you are the most suitable candidate:
Mention skills, aptitudes and qualifications that make you unique among the candidates.
Provide evidence of these through a well-prepared career portfolio containing your certificates, testimonials and sample work.
Explain how you used your unique qualifications to make a difference in the past.
Elaborate on how you think you can use these skills and aptitudes in the job you are applying for.
C. Be careful not to send the wrong message:
There is no place for false humility at a job interview. Speak up or your interviewer will not know what you are capable of.
Focus on the employer's interest - how you can contribute to the company; not on your own interest - salary, fringe benefits, etc
Avoid volunteering information detrimental to your chances of employment, but do not lie or make unsupported claims.
Pass unpleasant remarks about previous employers or competitors and you reveal a character flaw no employer welcomes.
Good luck to your job interview.

By Singapore Polytechnic