Information for Candidates

What do employers expect?

  • Communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Honesty
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Motivation
  • Teamwork skills
  • Computer skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Adaptability
  • Detail-orientated
  • Organizational skills
  • Leadership skills
  • Self-confidence

PREPARATION TO INTERVIEW

Research: Employers are interested in candidates who ask intelligent questions and are not afraid to lead a conversation based on what they know about the company. Gather as much information as you can before the interview. Know company’s products, services, culture, management, dress code and anything else you can think of. Internet, commercial and business organizations are all good sources of information.

Practice: Practice interviews with your family/friends or in front of the mirror. Employers appreciate communication competences. An interview is a an opportunity to showcase your abilities – be well prepared for it.

Be on time and be well prepared: Arrive 10 minutes before interview starts. Bring supplementary copies of your resume, a pen and paper, list of questions you intend to ask your interviewer, list of references and samples of your work, if applicable.

If, for any reason, you are not able to make the interview, notify employer as early as possible. Don’t be a no-show. Absolutely do not leave your employer with no information. Remember – your image is extremely important. A loss of image may have negative consequences.

DURING THE INTERVIEW

Act professionally: Dress appropriately, make sure that the clothing is ironed and shoes are polished. Shake hand with your interviewer (with a moderate strength – do not squeeze the his/her hand!). The first impression is crucial and may influence your image by the employer.

Lead the conversation appropriately: Don’t let the interview turn into an interrogation. Answer questions clearly and thoroughly but ask questions too. Remember, the purpose of interview is to learn about each other.

Be enthusiastic: Positive attitude may persuade the employer that you are dynamic and excited about possibility of working for given company.

AFTER THE INTERVIEW

Stay in touch: Send a thank -you letter/note within 48 hours. It can be sent by e-mail, hand written or typed – depending on a organization’s culture. Make sure the text is short and expresses your interest in a position.

Analyze the recruitment process:  Figure out if this particular position is suitable for you. Did the job’s description match your interests, skills and abilities? Were employers enthusiastic about their work? Did the management suit you? Did you have impression it would be a good place to work?  Did the company’s culture and values correspond to yours? Eventually, right match of those elements will  lead to successful career.

In case you change your mind and you decide not to continue the recruitment process or to reject the job offer, definitely inform the employer about it.  Proper communication is extremely important, even if related to giving negative information, so don’t be afraid of it. Never leave your mobile phone turned off in order to reject the job offer. Remember, your image matters!