These are some of most basic tips you will hear if you are readying to sit for a job interview. There are some people who really prepare for the interview by going through the company's history while some people feel confident enough to go for the interview with just a brief look at the website.Republica asked a few people about their job interviews and the essentials of appearing for an interview.
Pratistha Koirala
Research and Information Officer, Central Child Welfare Board
So far I've sat for around 10 job interviews and with luck passed most of them. I had mostly prepared myself by skimming through the organization's objectives and the kind of work it has been doing in the past. If required, I also try to know a little about the job I'm applying for. If the job is centered on gender empowerment, I may not be a gender specialist but I'll be in a better position if I'm equipped with basic knowledge regarding gender studies. I guess a valuable piece of advice for candidates soon to sit for a job interview would be to not exaggerate even if you're desperate for the job. Do not settle for a salary that's way too less, because with the course of time, you'll regret it. While living in a country like Nepal, being updated about current affairs becomes even more important and it certainly assists you in a job interview. Also putting on formal attire is always a good idea.
Saru Rai
Assistant Venue Manager, Armani Prive Hong Kong
I'm fortunate that my networking skill is strong. I've always got good recommendations from various people who let me know when there is a vacancy for jobs that would suit me. But I like having face-to-face interviews rather than just starting a new job based on recommendations. This way, I can know more about the potential employer and it's also important to know who you'll be working with. For the interview at this present job, I hardly got any time to even go through their website, but I knew it's a great place and so I decided to go ahead with the interview. I've been in the food and beverage industry for a long time, working in different areas, so I've never had a difficult interview. They normally ask about the work responsibilities at your current job and where you see yourself in the next five years. In my experience, it's good to maintain eye contact and never keep a serious face. Don't forget to smile. I've also taken many interviews and trust me when I say that, at times, we're also nervous. I've also noticed that when candidates are very nervous, they tend to use their hands too much, which doesn't look very pleasant. Dress smartly—casual and not too many accessories.
Roshan Koirala
Human Resource Head, Nabil Bank
While looking for the best candidate for the job, the most important aspect is whether they fit in the criteria or not. That is, whether they have the required knowledge, skill and ability to carry out the job operation. The second most important attribute becomes the right attitude which we discern by the way they interact with us and answer the tricky questions we pose to them. We look for such a candidate who is self-driven and is updated regarding the current affairs, among others. Being updated is important in all sectors. You may not have to know everything but you need to know certain facets of current affairs that affect your sector. For example in banking, politics too can play a role; therefore if you are updated with the politics of the country, you are in a better position. Apart from that, we endeavor to hire such a candidate who constantly tries to grow themselves. So, an ideal candidate for us would be the one who understands customers well and is continuously working to grow him/herself. All in all, since interview sets the first impression, it should not be taken for granted.
Birendra Kumar Shrestha
Managing Director, Kathmandu My Choice Restaurant and Bar
Since my restaurant is rather small compared to the popular ones in town, I don't expect the candidates to be highly qualified or have many years of experience. But having said that, the candidates do need to have some work experience so that they know what they are expected to do. I also like them to come prepared with their certificates and most importantly, their citizenship without which I don't hire anyone. Candidates should also be well groomed. No caps or earrings on men. They should have a good personality—be warm and friendly to all customers. I want them to be able to retain customers.
Aarya Adhikari
Media & Communications Coordinator, Bihani Social Venture
I started off as a volunteer at Bihani but I did have to sit for an interview for it. I prepared by doing some research about the organization so that I would have something relevant on hand if I was asked questions about Bihani. The research did help me but I found out that Bihani was different from what I had assumed it would be. All the candidates were prepped on the work Bihani does and the activities we are expected to do during our tenure. I think I'm good at communicating with others. I had Mass Communications in my high school and English is one of the majors I'm studying in college so this was a great opportunity for me.
Sanjal Byanjankar
Data Entry Specialist, CloudFactory
Two years ago, I had my first job interview for CloudFactory. There wasn't any compulsory dress code, so I reached wearing my casuals. But looking back, it would have been a good idea if I showed up in formals. Not that anyone told me anything, but I feel it could set a better impression. A day ahead of the interview, I took a good look at the website of CloudFactory. I tried to learn everything important about it. That helped me during my interview. My interviewer was friendly which made things a lot lighter, even though it was a group interview which can make many people anxious. A popular tip to brace group interviews is to try and speak at the beginning but even if that is taken from you, you can still stand out by adding something extra to the discussion. Try rephrasing the things that has been already said, do not merely repeat it even if you feel the same way.
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