Now that you’ve sent in your curriculum vitae (CV), anticipate the next step of the vetting process by preparing for an interview.
Job seeking is a mentally and emotionally exhausting task. Apart from sending applications daily, you also have to prepare for the interview stage because some job posts have more than one interview stage. With that in mind, here are some tips to help you tackle them. I think the most important tip is to research the industry and company. Be ready to talk about how you view the company’s position in its industry and what its competitive advantages are, amongst other things.
Knowing your CV like the back of your hand and having your selling points ready is very important. If it’s a telephonic interview, I’d advise having your CV printed out in front of you, to easily answer questions pertaining to it. Here, you should also anticipate an interviewer’s concerns or reservations. Sometimes you’re not the perfect candidate on paper, because you don’t tick all the boxes, but your experience might make you an asset to the company. Instead of focusing on what you’re lacking, highlight your skills and what you bring to the table.
Being assertive and taking responsibility during the interview might also win your interviewer over. Remember, you’ve applied for the job because you have the skills to deliver the brief. Speak confidently but be careful not to come across as arrogant and overbearing. Yes, this is an interview to establish if you’re the right fit for the company, but remember that you’re also interviewing them to see if they’re the right company for you. Draw up your own questions and raise issues you aren’t sure of. Again, this will most likely work in your favour.
Abenathi Gqomo
