The Best Interview Tips

Preparing

• Do research on the company
• Research on the functions of the position
• Know the jargon of the industry
• Read up on current events

What to bring

• Your professional license (driver’s, PRC, etc.)
• Two reliable ball pens
• Several valid IDs
• Several pictures
• Several resumes
• Recent NBI clearance
• Portfolio of your best work
• Safety pins, etc.
• Certifications
• Other relevant materials

Interview manners

• Be courteous to the staff
• Turn off your cell phone
• Wait to be seated
• Practice good posture
• Do not put your things on the interviewer’s table
• Avoid using jargon
• Answer clearly and audibly
• Respect the interviewer’s personal space
• Smile and avoid being poker face
• Avoid arguing with the interviewer
• Listen well!

How to listen effectively

• Give verbal ad visual feedback to the interviewer’s statements
• Read her/his body language
• Let the interviewer finish what she/he is saying
• Maintain eye contact without staring
• Make sure you understand the question asked

Types of interviews

• Behavioral interview (regular question and answer)
• Stress interview (tests your emotional responses)
• Panel interview (with a group of interviewers)
• Lunch interviews (for higher positions)

Building rapport with the interviewer

• Practice proper mirroring
• Give sincere compliments regarding the company
• Try to find things in common

Tips in constructing answers to interview questions

• Know and answer the purpose of the question
• Be original
• Be credible and quantify when possible
• Self-qualify your answer when in doubt
• Cite examples from your experience
• Be direct to the point
• Never criticize your previous boss or company

Manila Bulletin