How to impress recruiters during job interviews

About 40 percent of interviewers reject a candidate during an interview because of their lack of confidence, 65 percent veto people who don’t make eye contact, and 20 percent disregard candidates who sit with their arms crossed, according to a survey by careers advice website WhatToBecome .

In addition, 71 percent of interviewers said they would pass on an inappropriately dressed candidate, 47 percent would not select an applicant with little knowledge of the company, and 76 percent would reject a candidate who appeared arrogant.

Here, recruiting experts share their best tips for preparing for an interview and questions to ask after the application process.

Research and prepare

Research the company, prepare what you’re going to say and listen carefully, says Black & Gray HR Chief Executive Nevin Lewis.

“Understand the history of the company and tell a story about who you want to be,” he adds.

It is crucial that candidates visit the company’s website and social channels and learn about the business mission, goals and core values.

“I always advise applicants to look beyond the company’s website — to look at a prospective employer’s social media profile and press articles,” says Zahra Clark, Tiger Recruitment’s director of Mena operations.

“The right research gives you a high-level view of the company and allows you to ask more insightful questions.”

The interview is a good opportunity to observe the work environment and office to get a feel for the company culture, says Waleed Anwar, managing director of Dubai-based recruitment firm Upfront HR. Try to show up early to do this.

Dress for the occasion

Pay attention to looks, Mr. Lewis recommends that everyone makes their first impression by their looks.

Dress up, always go to the interview with a presentable appearance and take care of your personal hygiene, says Mr. Anwar.

Candidates often forget this part and miss opportunities because of their dress or grooming, he says.

“Regardless of whether it is a video interview or an in-person interview, it is important to choose the right clothing and pay attention to personal grooming,” says Ms. Clark.

“Remember that every organization has different expectations for presenting their employees. For example, a service company might expect a more conservative dress code compared to a tech start-up. To be on the safe side, we generally advise setting the professional appearance one step higher than the dress code of the employer.”

According to a Dollar Shave Club study of 2,000 Americans, it takes just 27 seconds for people to make a first impression. About 69 percent of respondents said they make a first impression of someone before they even have a chance to say something, according to the survey.

How you introduce yourself, shake the interviewer’s hand, or interact in the first interview all play a role in your interview success, says Ms. Clark.

“So come on time, remember good posture, a friendly greeting, and most importantly, smile,” she says.

“The same is true when interviewing via video call. Report on time, make eye contact with the camera, and smile and nod to show you are listening and engaging with what the interviewer is saying.”

body language, eye contact

According to Mr. Anwar, the applicant’s body language and eye contact are very important during the interview.

“How you sit can show confidence [sitting up straight]maintain good eye contact with the interviewer and others in the room, and limit hand movements to express yourself when needed,” he suggests.

According to statistics from the WhatToBecome survey, 70 percent of recruiters read body language and 58 percent ask situational questions to determine candidates’ ability to work in specific circumstances and situations with specific skills.

According to Mr. Lewis, candidates must be smiling, friendly, relaxed and have a positive outlook for the future.

“Just be yourself. Be honest, authentic, and be the best version of yourself,” he says. “Highlight your personality, energy, character, skills, knowledge, and confidence.”

Never lie during an interview, says Ms. Sud of Plum Jobs. At some point you will be caught.

“During interviews, show genuine enthusiasm for the job and the company you want to join,” she adds.

According to Ms. Clark, effective body language can help you convey confidence and interest in the role, whether your interview is in person or via video call.

“Pay careful attention to your posture: avoid bending over and sit up straight. Maintain eye contact throughout and avoid fidgeting. If you’re nervous, try keeping your hands on your lap and relaxing your shoulders,” she recommends.

“Don’t cross your arms across your chest as that can be construed as quite hostile. We also recommend staying away from excessive hand gestures, which can distract from what you’re saying.”

address questions

Make sure you listen carefully to the questions before answering to avoid asking the interviewer to repeat the questions, recommends Mr Anwar.

“Answer the questions by relating them to your current role or the position you’re applying for and giving relevant examples,” he says.

____________

According to LinkedIn, the 15 best companies to work for in the UAE – in pictures

Mr. Lewis encourages applicants to answer each question briefly. Only talk to one person about one thing at a time, he says.

“If the opportunity arises, tell the interviewer how you plan to add value,” adds Mr. Lewis.

Always ask questions in an interview, stresses Ms. Clark. If you don’t do this, you may be at a disadvantage as it could indicate a lack of interest in the role and the business. With the right preparation, however, questions are the perfect opportunity to show that you have done your homework and to stand out from other applicants, she says.

“Avoid answering questions with a simple yes or no. One-word answers can end the conversation and only give the interviewer limited information about you,” says Ms. Clark.

“Instead, expand your answers and make sure to showcase your skills and talents in your answers. Having examples to back up your arguments will serve you well.”

When talking about her work experience, Ms. Sud says it pays to structure your answers by the relevant skills you have for the job.

“Give examples of how you have performed similar roles and responsibilities, and demonstrate your soft skills and learning abilities,” she suggests.

salary expectations

When asked about salary expectations, be realistic and reasonable, Ms. Sud suggests.

“Avoid giving a high number in hopes of negotiation — that’s a turnoff for most companies,” she says.

According to data from the WhatToBecome survey, about 91 percent of employers expect the respondent to know the salary before the interview.

Be polite and assertive. “Polite” aims to show your courtesy and respect, while “assertive” aims to show your enthusiasm for the interview and more, recommends Mr. Lewis.

After the interview

It’s good practice to send a quick and polite thank you note or email to the company or recruiter within 24 hours of the interview, says Mr. Anwar.

In this note, reaffirm your interest in the position and perhaps mention a key aspect you’re excited about or someone you’re excited to work with, he adds.

“If you don’t get a response after the initially advertised recruitment timeline, follow up professionally,” suggests Ms. Sud.

According to Mr. Anwar, if you haven’t already done this before the interview, you should always check in with the interviewers on LinkedIn.

The most important thing is to relax and not put all your eggs in one basket, he says.

Proceed to the next application and wait for feedback. If you don’t hear from them within the agreed timeframe, get in touch. This gives you peace of mind and closure, he adds.

UAE Salary Guide 2022 – In Pictures