Looking for a job overseas is similar to looking for a job in the Philippines. You need to submit your resume, which contains information like educational background and work experience. Recruiters use it to screen applicants and determine if they pass the second stage, which is job interview.
So, you looked great on paper, but what can you do to wow your interviewer? Believe it or not, job interviews could make or break your dreams to work abroad, which is why you need to make it good in order to proceed to the next step. At the same time, job interview is a good opportunity for employers to get to know you better and determine whether you are fit for the job.
The question is how will you do it?
Here are job interview tips you need to know and remember:
1. Research about these three things.
The job you applied for, the company you will be working with, and the country where you will be assigned.
You need to know the job you are applying for and make it a point to share your experiences while doing the job. You also need to research about the company, what they stand for, company culture, and how they treat their employees. You will most likely be interviewed by a representative of the company, so familiarize yourself with that person before you meet him. Consequently, know the country where you will be working. Get to know the culture, food, places, and traditions among others to give you an idea on what to expect if you were chosen.
Never go to an interview without any knowledge of the job, company, or even the country where you’re going. Knowing these could give you an advantage over other applicants.
2. Be on time.
The concept of Filipino time doesn’t work in this case. Keep in mind that interviewers will interview more than one people for the job and they want to do it as quick as possible. If the appointment say 8:00 am, then be there at least 15 minutes before the scheduled time.
3. Make the most out of your first 30 seconds.
They say first impressions last, so make the most out of it. From the moment you enter the room, you should be able to exude confidence with the way you walk, stand, sit, and talk. Interviewers will also judge you by the way you present yourself, so make it count.
4. Emphasize your strengths and acknowledge your weaknesses.
You will be asked why you are the right candidate for the job or why they will hire you. At this point, you need to highlight your strengths and back it up with previous experiences. Share situations from your previous employment where your skill and professionalism stood out.
At the same time, identify your weaknesses and offer commitment on how willing you are to turn those weaknesses into something positive. Employers want someone who is skilled and knowledgeable, but they also need someone who is resilient and willing to improve.
More importantly, never lie just to get the job. Honesty goes a long way, so make sure you only share something that really happened to you.
5. It’s okay to ask clarifying questions.
… especially when you don’t understand what the interviewer is asking. This will enable you to give a better answer because you understood the question. Nonetheless, listen carefully again and make you got the question once the interviewer repeated it since repeating this could be annoying for them.
6. Learn to adapt to the situation.
Interviewers have different personalities. Some prefer to talk while you listen and will only say something when asked while there are others who prefer listening to you, which means you need to elaborate as much as you can. Regardless, make sure you adapt to the situation. You can easily gauge what the interviewer wants based on body language, so make sure you pay attention to it.
7. Practice with someone.
They say practice makes perfect – and there is no better way to ace this interview than preparing.
Before the interview, have a run-through with someone, say your spouse or a close friend. Prepare questions that could possibly be asked. Make sure to answer the questions as if you are already on your interview. Ask for feedback and make sure to accept constructive criticisms.
Are you ready to ace that job interview? Good luck and you can do it!