By Bank Windhoek's Recruitment Manager, Chantelle Reid.
After applying for a position, you finally receive that call
which says: 'You have been shortlisted for the position. Please join us on this
date for an interview.' This in itself is a big achievement. So what do you do?
You prepare for it in order to increase your chances of getting hired.
Preparing for an interview primarily means taking the time
to thoughtfully consider your goals and qualifications relative to the position
and the potential employer. To help you ace the interview, take a look at a few
tips below:
Research the company: While recruiters do not expect you to
know every single detail about the company, you are expected to know the
basics. The company profile, usually found on websites, should give you all the
information you need. If possible, find out who the role you applied for will
be reporting to.
Examine the vacancy and its key performance areas: You may
want to ask whether the company is willing to share the job description with
you during preparation. Even if they do not, the advertised vacancy is usually
a good indication job's expectations.
Dress appropriately: Make sure your clothes are clean, neat
and suitable for the job. Ladies, knee length dresses or a fitted pants with a
top, which does not reveal too much cleavage is perfect. Ladies be conscious of
the shoes you wear. If you cannot comfortably walk in long heels, do not wear
them, but rather opt for something shorter and sturdier. Gents, a fitting pants
and a button shirt with matching shoes are a good choice. Please wear socks.
Ties are not essential unless the job level requires it. Your clothes must be
comfortable and fit well. Look presentable. Also, your safest option is neutral
colours. You can add a splash of bright colours in the form of a scarf for
example, but nothing that could tear the attention away from you.
Prepare your travel arrangements: Once you have a confirmed
interview time and date, make sure you know how to get there, and how long it
will take. If you are going with your own car, be mindful of challenges with
parking, especially if the company, such as Bank Windhoek's Head Office, is
situated in the Central Business District (CBD) area. If you are using public
transport, make sure it is a reliable one. Rather leave earlier and plan extra
time for unforeseen delays.
You hair/beard: Hair should be clean and combed. Ladies, you
can also tie your hair up neatly. Gents, beards should also be clean and
well-trimmed.
Makeup/jewellery: Makeup should be modest and your jewellery
should not be too big or distracting. Refrain from wearing jewellery that makes
a jingly sound every time you move.
Cell phones: There is no excuse for your phone buzzing or
ringing during your interview. To be safe, switch it off hours before the
interview, or leave it at home.
References: Contact your references listed on your
Curriculum Vitae (CV) the moment you are invited for an interview. Inform them
of what position you applied for and where, so that they can prepare
accordingly.
Your CV and supporting documents: Prepare a copy of your CV
and all your supporting documents to take to the interview. Make sure your
documents are in a neat folder and in a chronological order.
Relax: To remain calm, practice taking deep breaths and
formulate possible answers to questions you think will be asked.
The biggest mistake some shortlisted candidates make at this
stage of the recruitment process is to think that they do not need to prepare
for an interview. This is the worst thing you could do and will most certainly
jeopardize your chances of getting that job. Remember, planning is key and will
make you feel more relaxed and ready.
