THE job interview process starts with making a lasting first impression.
The process begins before the interview, by having the skills and competencies that are needed to perform the role.
Interviewing candidates for a position in the company is one of the final steps in the hiring process.
But how do employers select the right person for their business?
BTI Consultants managing director and vice-president Asia Pacific Anthony Raja Devadoss said candidates should be on time and “if you are going to be late for the interview, don’t show up at all”.
He said upon arrival, greet support staff professionally as you should treat the gatekeeper, be it a receptionist or front-end assistant, with the same respect as anyone else.
“The potential employer will make an immediate judgment about you based on what you are wearing and how you are groomed. You also have to practise good posture before and during the interview, so sit straight and no slouching.
“Lastly, greet the interviewer(s) warmly and confidently by making strong eye contact while smiling confidently and shaking hands firmly,” said Anthony, who has vast experiences in human resources consulting.
UEM Group Bhd chief human capital officer Norlida Azmi, who shared Anthony’s view, said by arriving early, you have time to calm your nerves.
She said that it is best to have done some research on the company and take time to formulate your response. Don’t hesitate to ask the interviewer to repeat the question.
“Interviewers are generally on the lookout for a particular behaviour or skill such as teamwork, problem solving ability, managing conflict. Think about a few examples to share based on your previous experience.
“Graduate interviews (at UEM Group of Companies) these days typically consist of the following stages: aptitude tests on numeracy; verbal reasoning and logic; case study or technical assessment for those in engineering based roles; group activities; and interview,” said Norlida.
She added that for each stage, background research of the company and interview practice are key so it’s good for graduates to ask campus recruiters during their visit or at career fairs on the selection process.
“It is also worthwhile to keep in touch with one’s university seniors who were successful in landing a job and best to keep up with the company’s activities on social media to stay up-to-date.
“There’s a variety of sites where graduates can practise case studies and aptitude assessments so that nerves don’t get the better of them on the day itself.”
Maybank Group chief human capital officer Nora Abd Manaf said a candidate should begin with good preparation such as to learn as much about the company as possible before attending the interview.
“This will help to strengthen the candidate’s fit into the role, the organisation and the culture. Besides seeking the necessary technical information, the candidates need to be prepared physically.
“Upon entering the interview room, the candidate’s initial non-verbal language should project positivity in his/her eye contact, firm handshake and a smile. Candidates should be prepared with a list of questions to ask the interviewing panel about the role and the organisation.
“Candidates must listen to the questions carefully and ask for clarification if required. Be professional and straightforward enough to admit any shortcomings due to lack of information or experience but do offer to get back to them with the answer later and ‘do get’ to them.
“A phone call or a thank you note may leave an impression to the interviewing panel that you care about the role,” said Nora.
At companies like Maybank, Nora said fitting into the culture is important. “Hiring managers not only interview talents for qualifications and skills, but also for the right personality fit. A candidate needs to be able to identify the right emotional intelligence to point out his / her connection to bring value to Maybank.
“The candidate has to conduct prior research as to how the company conducts its business, how it is perceived by the market and what direction for its future.
“At the end of the interview, candidates should ask the right questions that will showcase one’s dedication to the role offered.”