Important Things to Consider Before that Coveted Interview

By Psirmoi Daniel.

Every year, thousands of students from both tertiary institutions and universities are poured into the world to do one thing only: get a good job!

The reality of the job market however is not as good as we would like it to be. Truth be told, it’s tough out here and sometimes you can’t help pitying these young people.

Looking at them, one sees the ambition that fires them, their desire to live their dreams and at those encouraging moments, we see their willingness to do something for their country.

Tarmacking then becomes routine in their quest to get a job or internship. And as the case sometimes is, what you know and can do becomes secondary to who you know.

It's disheartening and discouraging to 'tarmac' for a long time only to be offered a chance to prove yourself before an interview panel and you flop or fail to make an impression.

To save you that predicament, here is how to prepare for that coveted interview:

1. Prepare for the interview questions

The way you answer questions posed to you by the interviewer will make or break you, it will determine whether you will get the job or not to mention the fact that it will give one competitive advantage.

Proper preparation for possible questions is therefore important. Most interview questions are short, formal and structured because of time constraints.

  And don’t forget that mirror session!

2. Self Assessment

Critically analyze your strengths and weakness. Look for ways of maximizing your strengths and cleverly minimizing your weakness. Carry out a comprehensive examination of your skill-see if they match up to the job you applied for.

3. Update your C.V / Resume

Ensure you C.V or resume is well written, clearly thought out, well formatted and up-to-date. You should ask your friends whether it reads well and can therefore sell you to the potential employer.

 4. Research on the company

It's counter-intuitive for an interviewee to know zilch or nothing at all about his/her prospective employer! It paints one negatively as ignorant or even a snob when you are asked, ''tell me what you know about the company'' and you cannot utter a thing.

Information about the company can be easily accessed via the internet. You can also visit the company's website since most of them have their own websites. Financial journals, newspapers also have information- i.e Financial Journal of Standard.

5. Dressing for the Interview 

Before choosing what to wear on this big and important day, remember that first impressions are hard to change and matter a lot. Fastidious dressing on the part of the interviewee is a sign of misplaced priorities and make one appear not serious.

Dress the part knowing that the panelists notice the details.  Pay special attention to your shoes because their condition speaks volumes. Avoid bling blings, excessive jewelry and make-up.

6. Prepare Materials

Have your certificates and testimonials, fresh copies of up-to-date C.V and writing material. Your pen should be executive-impressions still matter!

Finally on the D-day, arrive 10 minutes early. Be confident, smile and ask questions. Take business cards because they may come in handy when writing thank you letters.

All the best!