Whether you are job searching for the first time or looking for a career change, it takes effort and plenty of research to discover your passion and interest. To find a job that matches and fulfills your aspirations requires a few visits to career fairs and scouring of job portals. That said, the journey to discover a career pathway to land an ideal job is no mean feat.

After spending much time and effort searching and sending resumes, you finally receive an email for job interview.

Congratulations! To help you cross the next hurdle, watch this video to get some useful tips on how to face your interviewer with confidence:

1. Match your skills

Look at the job description and check if you fit the role. If there are some skills which you lack, try taking up some courses to fill the gap. The more criteria you fulfil, coupled with the amount of experience you have, the higher your chances of having a job match.

2. Do your research

It pays to do some research about the company. Reading the comments on websites like Glassdoor is a good way to start learning about its work culture from past employees. Another option is to study the company’s website for understand, its history, values, achievements, vision and mission. Gaining such insights will prepare you for questions like “Why do you want to join our company” or, “what value can you bring to this organisation?”

3. Prepare your documents

Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready and put them in a presentable file. It will project a professional image on the interviewer that you are well-prepared and therefore keen on the job.

4. Practise your responses to interview questions

Brainstorm some of the possible questions which you think you might be asked and practise answering them with a friend or in front of a mirror. Try searching online for some common questions which interviewers might ask. This will boost your confidence and greatly enhance your prospects of having a successful job interview!

5. Be presentable

First impression counts and you only have that one chance to make or break it! Prepare for the job interview by planning on your outfit, getting your hair done and trimming your nails.

6. Check your appearance and leave home early

It always pays to have a quick glance-over at yourself before entering the interview room. For ladies, it is advisable to carry a compact mirror to have a quick check on your make-up, otherwise, a quick run to the washroom is another option. It would not be nice if you flash your pearly whites with chilli flakes stuck on them, would it?

7. Be confident

A vital element which should never be overlooked in an interview. Remember to keep eye contact with the interviewer, give a firm handshake and speak with confidence. For those who are naturally shy, you can always prepare for the interview by practising in front of a mirror or with a friend.

8. Thank the interviewer for their time

It pays to be gracious and thanking your interviewer at the end of the interview not only shows your appreciation but it will also leave a good impression. And remember to smile!

Try practising some of these recommended steps at home so you can ace your interview and land that dream job ! If you are in doubt and need some professional guidance, why not get a career coach for some advice to boost your chances? e2i offers complimentary career guidance sessions to Singaporeans and Singaporean PRs.

Click here to make an appointment to meet a career coach for career guidance and job matching services.