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Interview Check List

It is important to remember that the short time you spend in a job interview could have a dramatic effect on your career prospects. First impressions really do count; many interviewers will make a decision about the interviewee in the first five minutes of conducting the interview and the rest of the time justifying the decision made.

These hints, will equip you with valuable information on how to prepare and conduct yourself during interviews with prospective employers.

Preparation for the Interview:

Preparation is the first essential step towards a successful interview. Company interviewers are continually amazed at the number of applicants who drift into their offices without any apparent preparation and only the vaguest idea of what they are going to say. Thus, it is important to:

  1. Know the exact place and time of the interview, the interviewer1s full name, the correct pronunciation, and his/her title.

  2. Find out facts about the company - where its plants, offices, or stores are located; what its products and services are: what its growth has been; and what its growth potential is for the future. You can find information about companies at the public libraries, the Trade Development Council library in the Wanchai Convention Center or on the Internet.

  3. Refresh your memory about your previous achievements and duties. You will also be expected to know the month and year in which you were promoted or changed jobs. Be prepared to answer typical questions like:

    • What were your achievements?
    • What kind of job are you looking for?
    • Why did you change jobs?
    • What are your strengths?
    • What areas do you need to improve and what have you done about further developing yourself?
    • What do you know about our company?
    • Why did you choose your particular career?
    • What are your qualifications?

  4. Prepare the questions you will ask during the interview.
    You may want to ask questions regarding:

    • A detailed description of the position?
    • Reason the position is available?
    • Culture of the company?
    • Anticipated induction and training programme?
    • Advance training programme available for those who demonstrate outstanding ability?
    • Company growth plans?
    • Best-selling products or services?
    • The next step?

  5. Select appropriate interview clothing and accessories. If the meeting is on a Saturday, check whether "smart casual" or weekday business attire is expected. Dress conservatively and preferably in darker colours in garments that fit well. Pay attention to all facets of your dress and grooming. i.e. clean hair, clean shaven, dark socks with dark shoes (no white socks with dark pants), no outlandish ties and they need to be fastened correctly. Ladies need to pay attention to the length of the outfits and neck line -- showing too much of the body sends the wrong message about professionalism. Hand bags and brief cases need to be in good condition and shoes should be polished with new heals.

At the Interview

The Do's
  • Arrive on time or a few minutes early.
  • Turn off your mobile phone or pager, do not answer it in an interview.
  • If presented with an application, fill it out neatly and completely.
  • Greet the interviewer by his/her surname.
  • Shake hands firmly.
  • Sit upright in your chair, look alert and interested at all times.
  • Be a good listener. Follow the interviewer1s leads but try to get the interviewer to describe the position and the duties to you early in the interview so that you can relate your background and skills to the position.
  • When you speak come to the point, answering questions truthfully and frankly. Usually, very senior managers want the "head lines" and not too much detail while functional managers want the detail. If the interviewer asks for the detail, they expect you to back up your claims with good examples.
  • Look your interviewer in the eye while you talk to him/her.
  • Do not answer questions with a simple "yes" or "no". Explain whenever possible. Tell those things about yourself which relate to the position.
The Don'ts
  • Never make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers or your colleagues.
  • Do not "over answer" questions. The interviewer may steer the conversation into politics or economics. Since this can be ticklish, it is best to answer the questions honestly, trying not to say more than is necessary.
  • Do not cover your mouth with your hand, fidget, crack your knuckles, or bounce your legs. Take a deep breath and try to stay calm.
  • It is not advisable to inquire about SALARY, HOLIDAYS, BONUSES, etc. at the initial interview unless you are positive the employer is interested in hiring you and raises the issue first. However you should know your market value and be prepared to specify your required salary or range.
  • Always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job you are discussing. Never close the door on opportunity. It is better to be in the position where you can choose from a number of jobs rather than only one.
Remember the employer will be lucky if they get you! If you do your homework well, you can relax, smile, and enjoy your interview.
Article provided by Executive Connections Ltd

Executive Connections Ltd. recruits senior and middle managers for positions based primarily in Hong Kong and China, on behalf of Asian and Multinational companies. We specialize in the following industries: Fast Moving Consumer Goods, Retail, Garments, Telecommunications, Datacommunications, Logistics, Media, Engineering, Business and Finance.