Seeking Job in Singapore

For many, the interview is the single most stressful part of the job
search process. Any number of things can go wrong, and a big part of
being successful is avoiding simple mistakes. Here's a top ten list of
the most common interview mistakes:

1. Arriving late

Don't give a weak first impression even before the start of the
interview. Lateness shows lack of respect and poor time management
skills. After scheduling the interview, find out the distance and
directions to the physical location. Don't assume you "know how much
time it takes". Being late to an interview adds stress…and
interviewing is already stressful enough.

2. Under-dressing

Dress for success is a common phrase, but a lot of candidates do not
take it seriously. Unless the company you are interviewing with
instructs you otherwise, wear business professional clothing. Remember
that everything - your appearance, your tone of voice, your conduct -
contributes to the impression (positive or negative) that you make. Be
presentable - wear a pressed shirt, a tie and polished shoes.

3. Not being prepared

This interview could be a significant milestone in your career.
Re-read the relevant version of your CV and the job advert, just
before the interview. You'd be surprised how many people can't
remember what they wrote on their CV.

Also, be familiar with the job description so you can draw on your
experiences, talents, strengths and abilities to connect with the
company needs. Highlight how you're suited to that particular job.

Not to forget, make sure you've brought with you everything you were
asked for. This include all of your essential educational certificates
as well as personal portfolio (if any).

4. Failure to research the company

As a general rule, the more famous the brand, the more they will
expect you to have done your homework. Researching the company shows
you're serious about the job.

Do your homework before the interview; f ind out about the company's
past, vision, competitors, achievements, numbers, etc. Some companies
even have their candidate expectations somewhere on their website.

Study all these information in detail. Nothing communicates
disinterest like a candidate who hasn't bothered to do pre-interview
research. On the flip side, the quickest way to a good impression is
to demonstrate your interest with a few well thought out questions
that reflect your knowledge of the organisation.

5. Lying

Be yourself and be honest! Don't pretend to understand a question or
train of thought if you don't. The interviewer will pick up on this.
If you don't know an answer, say so. Relax and be yourself.

6. Criticising your past boss or coworkers

The fastest way to talk yourself out of a new job is to say negative
things. You should never talk negatively about your current position,
the industry, people that you've work with and previous nightmare
dilemmas. Interviewers are interested more in how you overcome these
challenges. Anything negative you say about any topic will reflect
negatively on you. If there is something you need to express that is
negative, say it in positive way.

7. Lack of confidence and enthusiasm

Lack of confidence can be a big turn off. If you appear too nervous,
the interviewer will think that you're not confident enough to do the
job. If you are serious abour getting the job, you'll need to sell
yourself as a representative of the company. Show yourself in a way
they would feel proud of working with.

Make the employer feel that you are excited and interested in the job
opportunity rather than just coming to the interview to see what's out
there.

Maintain eye contact, greet the interviewer with a smile and a firm
handshake (not too weak, not too strong), and show common courtesy.
Don't be afraid to display your passion for the job/industry and to
show confidence.

8. Not listening

You must read the interviewer's gestures and tones and respond
accordingly. Focus on the question that is being asked and don't try
to anticipate the next one. It's OK to pause and collect your thoughts
before answering a question. Give a targeted response to what the
interviewer has asked. Be clear, concise and to the point. Don't
expand in endless explanations.

9. Not asking meaningful questions

You don't have to talk at all times in the interview. It is not only
okay, but also essential to ask the interviewer some questions. Have
at least three or four intelligent questions to ask him or her.
Interviews are an exchange of information, and not coming in with
questions shows that you did not prepare for the whole interview.

10. Not following up after the interview

Calling or sending a note after the interview is your way of showing
your appreciation. It is a direct way of telling the company that you
are truly motivated and want this job.