TIPS FOR INTERVIEWEES

SHARED FROM:
The Star, Thursday, 3 October 2013
Reflecting On The Law by Shad Saleem Faruqi

LIFE IS ABOUT SUBSTANCE AS WELL AS SHOW,

REALITY AS WELL AS APPEARANCE, ISI AS WELL AS GAYA

Now and then all of us are interviewed for a job, assignment, or honour.  On such occasions, it is important to put our best foot forward.  There are no sure recipes, but some observations may be useful.

1. To be rather than to seem

Experience also teaches us that life is about substance as well as show.  It is a reality as well as appearance.  We must not only be, we must also appear to be!  For these reasons we must go prepared to showcase our achievements and to project ourselves as the best candidates.  Our past is as important as our claims for the future.

2. Prepare an impressive CV with a colourful photograph

Begin with the latest and the best.  Prepare a one page synopsis highlighting the summits of your life.  Include a few strong references.  Enclose proof of accomplishments and accolades.

3. Prepare an impressive opening statement

Highlight your immersion and passion for the post.

4. Prepare a carefully crafted closing statement

Highlight whatever you wish should be known.

5. Do some homework about the organization

The targeted position, the reward you are seeking and the likely possible interviewers.  This may help you anticipate the direction of the discussion.

6. Anticipate and prepare for likely questions
7. What you can contribute to the organization

Have your ideas organized.  Precise, systematic answers always make an impact.

8. Prepare some questions

Request permission to put in a few carefully phrased pre-prepared comments.  Avoid issues of salary and other terms unless you are asked.

9. Try to find out the format of the interview

Sometimes you are required to make a presentation.  Avoid an extremely technical show.

10. Your appearance must be appropriate

First impressions do count.  Be cautiously moderate.

11. Greet the chairperson and members warmly

Do not focus only on one interviewer.  Seek the chairperson’s permission to distribute CV.  Do not be seated till asked to do so.

12. Show positivity and enthusiasm

Exude an intensity of commitment, a burning desire, and a single minded determination to achieve your goals.  Attitude more than aptitude determines altitude.  This attitude has to be cultivated.  It will not be the result of spontaneous combustion.

13. Slip in a brief impressive opening statement
14. Listen very attentively to each question

Maintain eye contact. Answer in full sentences.  Do not be evasive.  Communication skills are the most vital tool at an interview and indeed in any future leadership role.  What you say id sometimes less important than how you say it.

15. Be pro-active in slipping in positive information that show cases of your achievements

Do not exaggerate accomplishments. Be honest about limitations.  State how you intend to overcome limitations, and that you will not allow limits to limit you.

16. Do not be thrown-off by unfriendly questions

Sometimes they are asked to test your composure.  Courage is grace under pressure.  Patience is restrained strength.

17. Use the same language as the interviewer unless instructed otherwise
18. Never demonise your former boss, organization or colleagues
19. Thank everyone and sign-off with a pre-prepared closing statement once the interview ends
20. Do not be disheartened by lack of success

Do not give up.  Successful and unsuccessful people do not vary greatly in their abilities but in their determination and perseverance.

Keep dreaming.  It is on dreams that realities are built.  Act on your dreams.