Whether you’re a student looking for an internship or a soon-to-be graduate searching for a full-time job, interviews can be nerve-racking.

Unlike exams which are usually more predictable, interviews may come with surprises, with some involving unexpected tasks such as debates and challenges.

More than that, what’s on the line can make things even more stressful. Will you be able to answer the questions to secure your desired job?

With the graduation season coming up and many students looking for full-time jobs, I thought I would ask some of my friends how they go about tackling job interviews so we can all ace the next one we come across!

PREPARATION IS KEY

One fear that comes with job interviews is whether we can answer the questions well enough to get to the next round of the job selection process, or to obtain the actual job.

Not everything is in our control however, and sometimes it really is not up to us whether we land the role.

For one, we could be a fantastic candidate, but the company might be looking for a very specific skill set or personality.

What we can do, however, is to focus on what we can control instead of what we cannot.

So, what we can control? Our preparation for the interview.

Naina Bajaj* (23) said: “Preparation is very important. Prepare for general questions and research on the company. Know why you want to work for them.

“You can research on what the company is looking for as well, and the common questions usually asked in company-specific job interviews.”

More than just understanding the company, finding out more about the interviewer where possible could also be beneficial.

If you know in advance who your interviewer will be, you can find out what kind of person they are.

Be honest, be confident, and be logical.

For instance, if your interviewer is very passionate about sustainability, then it would help to be more sensitive towards sustainability when answering questions.

Basically, tailor what you say to the company while being sensitive to the interviewer.

If you think it helps, you could prepare a document with common interview questions and responses written in point-form to each question. The document can also include notes on the company.

BE INTERVIEW-SMART ABOUT THE QUESTIONS

So, the interview you’ve been waiting for has come. How do you best present yourself?

As a general guide: Be honest, be confident, and be logical.

While you probably wouldn’t be able to craft the perfect answer on the spot, getting your point across is what really matters, said E-Ning (24).

“Listen actively to what they are actually asking, and respond accordingly,” she said.

For example, when an interviewer asks for your weaknesses or any challenges you have faced, what they might really be going after is your thought process and your method in overcoming difficulties.

Therefore, don’t be afraid of being vulnerable with your interviewer – share your challenges, but show that you have a growth mindset, or a good problem-solving attitude.

More than just the words you say, how you say them is also crucial.

Be calm, speak with clarity, and remember to smile. After all, the interviewer is not simply listening to the words you say, but is also observing your non-verbal language.

On that note, remember to be yourself. Often, companies look for people who can gel well with the existing team. They might be looking for your unique personality that can bring a certain energy to the company.

Thus, don’t forget to let your personality shine through in the interview!

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

Beyond difficult questions, some interviews might have surprises.

“Sometimes, you don’t know until you enter the room whether the interview is a group interview or a one-on-one interview,” shared Eileen Quek* (23).

In the different interviews Eileen has taken part in, she has gone through a whole range of activities from taking part in debates – to building towers from marshmallows!

In such situations, quick-thinking and intention is important, suggested Eileen.

If you find yourself in an interview-related activity, grasp the purpose of it, and make sure you demonstrate what the company is looking for.

Remember to keep your calm, to show how well you work in teams if it is a group activity, and to be friendly.

Also, know that sometimes, interviewers may be stone-faced or hard to read. If that’s the case, continue to smile and remain confident.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF VIRTUAL INTERVIEWS

With the pandemic going on, virtual interviews have become common.

Jewel Ng (22) believes that virtual interviews have an advantage because you can be in an environment you are comfortable with — and even have your notes in front of you.

However, connectivity issues could arise. So, make sure that you find a good and quiet location where you will not be disturbed, and have the whole place set up before the interview.

In the interview, make sure you speak with extra clarity since audio quality might be compromised, said Jewel Ng.

In addition to that, pay attention to non-verbal cues on the part of the interviewer, which can help to direct your responses.

A raised eyebrow for example, might indicate uncertainty, which you could address. 

And in terms of dressing, you might want to select your outfit beforehand. Choose something you will be comfortable and confident in — something that can possibly show a bit of your personality.

DO YOUR BEST, GOD WILL DO THE REST

All this said, remember that a job interview is not just about the company assessing you, but also you assessing if the company will be a good fit for yourself!

It really is about finding a comfortable fit for both ends. Therefore, observe whatever you can. Find out if the company is somewhere you want to spend time in, and more than that, lift up the whole process into God’s hands, asking Him for direction and help.

In carrying yourself at the job interview, present yourself as how God sees you — valued and important.

“When you are able to show that you are confident and firm in who you are in Christ, then you will go into the company that God has intended for you,” shared E-Ning. “Jesus has a company for you, He has reserved a place for you.”

E-Ning’s words of encouragement were echoed by Jewel, who concluded: “Go into the interview knowing that God already has a plan for you, so don’t worry about the outcome!”

So, take a deep breath. Everything will be fine. You’re gonna be great at your next interview — all your friends here at Thir.st will be rooting for you! 🙂 

* Names have been changed for confidentiality.