The first time you need to go for an interview it can be quite scary. You’re not sure what to expect or how to behave, and the negative perception about job availability in South Africa doesn’t help, either. But you don’t have to be afraid – your interview is as much for you to learn about your potential employer as it is for them learning about you. Interviews also get easier with experience, although you might still not be feeling comfortable by your second or third interviews. Here are some interview tips to help you prepare:
What to wear
Make sure your clothes are clean with no holes and no wrinkles. Usually, the best outfit choice is formal business attire. Being over-dressed will never make a bad impression, although you might seem a bit over-eager if the position you’re interviewing for is very casual. For example, men can opt for a suit with a button-up shirt and tie, and ladies should dress conservatively (not showing shoulders or knees) with a pants suit, a tasteful dress, or a skirt with a formal blouse, paired with a blazer. Wear clean, plain formal shoes, ladies with a low heel. If you know for certain that the dress code at this particular company is very casual, you can dress a bit less formal but never wear jeans, shorts, and flip-flops.
Hair and accessories
Make sure your hair and nails are clean and neat – ladies shouldn’t wear long or colourful nails and men should trim their beards. Rather remove any facial piercings. Wear minimal jewellery and don’t wear perfume to your interview, it can be very distracting. Ladies should wear make-up, but stick to natural colours and don’t over-do it.
Prepare your answers
It’s a good idea to rehearse some standard interview questions with a friend or family member before your interview. The interviewer will typically ask about your work history, experience, your strengths and weaknesses, and your career goals. Be prepared to discuss everything on your CV.
Prepare some questions
You should also prepare two or three questions to ask them at the end of your interview. This will show that you are truly interested in working for them. Research the company in detail and ask something industry-related. If it wasn’t discussed during your interview, you can also ask them what your duties will be and how they would describe the work-environment. Never ask about the salary and leave policy in your interview.
Interview tips for during the interview
In our next article, we will discuss how to behave during an interview, so stay tuned!
