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In today's competitive job market, mastering job interview skills is crucial for landing your dream job. Whether you are a recent graduate entering the workforce or a seasoned professional looking for a career change, honing your interview skills can set you apart from the competition and increase your chances of success. Why Interview Skills Matter Interview skills go beyond simply showcasing your qualifications and experience. They encompass your ability to communicate effectively, demonstrate your value to potential employers, and leave a lasting impression that makes you unforgettable. In essence, mastering job interview skills is about presenting the best version of yourself in a professional setting. The Art of Preparation Research the Company Before stepping into the interview room, take the time to research the company you are interviewing with. Understand their values, mission, and recent achievements. This knowledge will not only demonstrate your interest in the role but will also equip you to ask insightful questions during the interview. Practice Common Questions Rehearsing common interview questions is essential to mastering your interview skills. Practice answering questions about your experience, strengths, weaknesses, and why you are the ideal candidate for the position. Consider conducting mock interviews with a friend or family member to receive feedback and improve your responses. Dress for Success First impressions matter, and your attire plays a significant role in how you are perceived during the interview. Dress professionally, taking into account the company's dress code and industry standards. A well-groomed appearance shows that you are serious about the opportunity and respect the interviewer's time. Mastering the Interview Communication is Key During the interview, focus on clear and concise communication. Listen attentively to the questions asked, and provide thoughtful responses that highlight your skills and accomplishments. Maintain eye contact, smile, and exude confidence in your abilities. Showcase Your Achievements Use real-life examples to showcase your achievements and demonstrate how you have added value in previous roles. Quantify your accomplishments where possible, using metrics to provide tangible evidence of your success. Employers are more likely to remember specific stories that illustrate your capabilities. Ask Relevant Questions An interview is a two-way street, and asking thoughtful questions can leave a lasting impression on the interviewer. Inquire about the company culture, growth opportunities, and expectations for the role. Engage in a dialogue that shows your genuine interest in the position and organization. After the Interview Send a Thank-You Note Within 24 hours of the interview, send a personalized thank-you note to express your gratitude for the opportunity to interview. Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly touch on key points discussed during the interview. A well-crafted thank-you note demonstrates professionalism and may set you apart from other candidates. Conclusion Mastering job interview skills is a continuous process that requires preparation, practice, and confidence. By researching the company, practicing common questions, and showcasing your achievements effectively, you can make a lasting impression during the interview. Remember to communicate clearly, ask relevant questions, and follow up with a thank-you note to leave a positive impact on potential employers. With dedication and the right strategies, you can enhance your interview skills and increase your chances of success in the competitive job market. So, are you ready to ace your next job interview?

Finding yourself face-to-face with a job interviewer can be a nerve-wracking experience, no matter how many times you've been through the process. The key to excelling in these high-stakes situations lies in preparation, confidence, and a dash of charisma. In this article, we'll dive into the art of mastering job interviews, providing you with valuable insights, tips, and tricks to help you shine in every interaction. Understanding the Interview Landscape First Impressions First impressions are pivotal in any job interview scenario. Your attire, body language, and initial greeting set the tone for the entire conversation. Remember to dress appropriately for the industry while injecting your personal style to stand out positively. A firm handshake, a warm smile, and maintaining eye contact convey confidence and professionalism. Research, Research, Research! Extensive research is the backbone of a successful job interview. Take the time to learn about the company's history, values, products or services, and recent news. Tailor your responses to showcase how your skills and experiences align with the organization's goals. This proactive approach demonstrates your genuine interest and commitment to the role. Crafting Compelling Responses Mastering the Art of Storytelling Employers are not just interested in your qualifications; they want to understand your journey. Craft compelling stories that highlight your accomplishments, challenges overcome, and the impact you've made in previous roles. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, providing concrete examples to support your claims. Turning Weaknesses into Strengths The dreaded question about weaknesses can turn the tide in an interview. Instead of evading the question, embrace it as an opportunity to showcase your self-awareness and growth mindset. Discuss a genuine weakness, explain the steps you've taken to address it, and reflect on the lessons learned. This transparency demonstrates maturity and a willingness to improve. Navigating Tricky Situations Handling Curveball Questions Interviewers often throw curveball questions to assess your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Stay composed and approach these questions methodically. Take a moment to gather your thoughts, ask for clarification if needed, and provide a structured response. Remember, it's not about having all the answers but showcasing your analytical capabilities. Addressing Salary Expectations When the topic of salary arises, tread carefully to ensure a mutually beneficial outcome. Research industry standards and align your expectations with your experience and the role's requirements. Provide a salary range rather than a specific figure, allowing room for negotiation. Emphasize your value proposition and the contributions you can make to justify your expectations. Mastering the Finale Closing with Confidence As the interview draws to a close, seize the opportunity to leave a lasting impression. Express your enthusiasm for the role and the organization, reiterating your interest and fit for the position. Inquire about the next steps in the hiring process and express your eagerness to contribute effectively. Thank the interviewers for their time and consideration, ending the interaction on a positive note. Embracing the Journey Mastering job interviews is an ongoing process that requires continuous learning and refinement. Reflect on each interview experience, gather feedback, and identify areas for improvement. Embrace rejection as an opportunity for growth and keep refining your interview skills. With dedication, preparation, and a positive mindset, you'll elevate your interview game and land your dream job. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a job seeker exploring new opportunities, honing your interview skills is paramount to career success. Embrace the journey, learn from each experience, and showcase the best version of yourself in every interview scenario. Remember, confidence, preparation, and authenticity are the keys to mastering job interviews and unlocking exciting career prospects. So, are you ready to dazzle your next interview panel? Let's embark on this journey together, armed with knowledge, confidence, and a winning mindset! Let's conquer those interviews and carve a path towards professional excellence!

Are you not getting a job? The impact of Covid-19 on jobs globally has been beyond recognition. Barring a few industries that are still doing well (Medical, Logistics, Online, Information Technology, Freelancers, etc), all others are suffering. According to a US labor report survey, 2.7 billion people are expected to lose their jobs worldwide in the next few months. Getting a job is now the hardest for most of us. But even under ordinary circumstances, it is not always easy to get a job. Below are 3 reasons why you may have been or are struggling to find a job and what you can do to change this. Your CV is Not Getting Selected Your Interview was Unsuccessful Your CV is Not Reaching the Right Industry Your CV is Not Getting Selected When an employer reads your CV, the fundamental fact they want to understand is whether or not you can do the job. If your CV does not include the skills and knowledge that your target employers are looking for, you won't be shortlisted – no matter how well-written and structured your CV is. ​ Recruiters and hiring managers take a maximum of 15 seconds to determine your CV's suitability so it must create an immediate impression. Remember CVs are a direct document-representation of you – who you are? what do you do? how well you are equipped to manage your job responsibilities? your passions and interests, your achievements, and most importantly, why you are the most suitable candidate for the job? ​These are the top 8 tips to make your CV attract attention Your Interview Was Unsuccessful  Interview Scheduled. You are all excited! You want to make the right impression. You print and review your CV for last-minute errors, find the interview location, and on the appointed date and time, head off to meet the interviewer. After 30 minutes you are done, feeling confident that the job is yours. Eagerly awaiting your next interview round call. Suddenly your hopes come crashing down as your eyes read an email informing you that your interview was not successful. You feel distraught, disappointed, and frustrated. You do not understand how could an interview you were so sure about, not gone your way. Was the interview fixed or the interviewed biased, or the company no good? The negativity continues to bring you down for all future interviews. These are all situations we have faced. I have faced them too, I have felt it and hear it from job seekers all the time. But wait... there is a way to avoid this and to minimize job rejections. It will be only a matter of time when you get the perfect job with the desired employer all because of the impression you have created. You should know these top reasons why you may not be unsuccessful at the interview. Never assume you can do well at the interview just because you work hard and do the job right. These are the top reasons why you could be missing making the cut. Your CV is not reaching the right industry Most recruiters and hiring managers give a lot of preference to applicants employed in a similar industry and/or product-service background. e.g if you are working as a Sales Engineer, selling automobile spare parts, and are applying for a job of a sales engineer selling IT equipment, then even though the "job description" and "title" is an exact match, applicants who are as close to IT-related products, equipment or service may be given higher preference, resulting in an unsuccessful application and hence job. The best way forward would be to apply to companies that are your employer's competitors or in a similar business or industry. This increases your chances to get noticed and you will be better prepared when you are shortlisted for an interview. It saves your future employers training time and hence money since it takes a minimum of 3-6 months for a new employee to adjust in knowledge line with other team members in the company. All the best. stay positive, stay motivated because that's the only way to survive!

With a global economic slowdown over 3 months driven by the COVID-19, many of us have lost our jobs, or have had our salaries reduced or been asked to take our annual leave, paid followed by an extended unpaid leave if we need to keep our jobs. Employers are evaluating their finances as you read this post and in most cases, the figures will be found to be concerning. They would be required to take immediate actions in the company needs to survive and unfortunately, it is the employees who be the unwanted targets. 1. How Urgent is the Need? If you are not an active job hunter and you are currently employed, you may want to consider putting your job search on hold for a while. Consider exploring new training areas to horn new skills or dive deeper into the knowledge of your expertise rather than stick to what you’re your employer wants you to do. I ncrease your job security and make your position stronger. If you are not employed, do not think of your next job as the perfect job. It might be short-term before you move to a new role, given the circumstances. You may need to take up a new job just to pay your bills. While most industries and companies have been hit hard, there are quite a few jobs and industries that are doing well. Yes, you heard it right. You may want to read more about some of these jobs. 2. Get Comfortable Networking Online Join online platforms and professional groups to share experiences, articles, support others, publish content in your areas of specialization. It goes a long way to get more “ your name brand ” presence and will also help you when future employers can read some of your publications and supportive work. You may also want to do online video training on YouTube, Vimeo, etc. Network with like-minded professionals and experts and learn from them. It only helps in the long run. 3. Stay In Touch Working remotely may have kept you away from staying in touch with hiring managers, influencers, and decision-makers. This could even be your own hiring manager. Call them, see what is going on on the recruitment front with your current or previous employer or past recruiters and recruitment managers that you may have met or interviewed. You may even want to check on any feedback that they have for you to help you get a job. Make sure you also demonstrate a thoughtful attitude. Rather than asking them to help you, ask if there is anything you can assist them with. 4. Gather Intelligence Reports Seeing how a company treats its employees during a crisis will help you understand the company and the decision-makers. Do they offer extended work from the home facilities and the infrastructure to support their employees? did they extend working hours till late at night? was there more communication from the HR and managers to find out how their employees and family were doing? did they treat their employees with care? or were there phone messages and emails telling their employees that their services have been terminated? Set up google alerts on the latest news about companies. How you treat people tells a lot about a person or a company. 5. Use the Time to Reflect Don’t just jump at the first job opportunity you get. You don’t want to land in the fire. Reflect on what options you have? what you really want? what does your family need? are there any changes to your career path? are you enjoying your job and doing it for the sake of the salary? Businesses have slowed down along with economies, so do you. Take a deep breath and rethink your goals. 6. Boost Your Skills There are plenty of free training courses that you can do – I have taken up digital marketing. From SEO basic to advance to content to link building – I am much better than I was 3 months ago. The world has digitally advanced. You can find everything you need and use it to build your skills and knowledge, not only for your career but also for your family. There are plenty of free online courses EdX classes (free MIT and Harward courses), and free Microsoft training and tutorials . Free digital marketing courses from Neil Patel to Semrush You can lay the groundwork now so that when the crisis is over you have opened doors and rekindled relationships.

When a recruiter reads your Facebook job application, they want to understand whether or not you can do the job and definitely not how good your social profile is. If your job application does not have all the criteria of your CV, you will not receive a call, no matter how good your Facebook posts are. ​ Recruiters and hiring managers take a maximum of 15 seconds (actually between 7-10 seconds) to determine if your application is suitable. So it must create an immediate impression. Remember, you are applying for a career and your job application is representing you. ​ Below are the top 3 tips to make your Facebook application attract maximum attention. ​ The Structure It is very important that your application, through Facebook (or any social media) must contain all the information on your CV. (1) Work Experience – Company, Title, and Job Description (2) Education and Training (3) Skills and Interests (4) Personal Details (5) Recommendations/References We review hundreds of Facebook applications when we post a job and almost 90% of the applications have an empty job responsibility. It takes me 2 seconds to reject such an application because it tells me that the person just does not have time or interest to complete an application. ​ You may want to read more about CV preparation here and incorporate the recommendations on your Facebook application. Also, read why your CV could be getting rejected . ​ ​ The Jobs You Apply Almost 85% of the Facebook applicants applying for any and every job. Chances of wasting your time are high rather than focus on applying for, at least similar job titles. I recently had an experienced "Midwife" apply for a Senior Sales Executive job and I did not even read the first line. I had a Receptionist apply for a compliance job because she worked in a bank. Her CV was rejected immediately. ​ Solution: Do not apply for jobs blindly because you need one. Apply for jobs because you have at least the education and skills in the same field, if not practical work experience. The more relevant your experience, skills, and education to the job, the better your chances. Concentrate on similar job titles only - one level up or down is still a good chance. ​​ Your Social Profiles I sometimes look at people's social profiles and link them to our database. What do you post? whom do you know? your interests? your followings? and your likes tells a lot about you. If I can look at your profile as a recruiter, so can others and most importantly your potential employer. So you must be careful. Solution: Keep updating your social media with positive, educative, inspiring posts, learning articles, research work, recommendations. Network with positive friends circle.

The job hunt has never been easy and now with the pandemic, the search has become harder. Many companies are forced to downsize restructure and being laid off during the pandemic is a “looming fear” that haunts us. If you have lost your job then this is worth a read. Here are the top 6 tips that you can immediately do, to increase your prospects of getting a job asap. “For job seekers who need to find a new job ASAP, we advise them to be flexible with their expectations and to approach the search with a hustle mentality,” says one of the top recruiters. Here are our top 6 tips for your job hunt Make Sure your CV is well structured and formatted Probably the most important and decisive documents that keep you from getting an interview or screening calls. Ensure that you don’t make these common errors in your CV, which is why your CV may not be getting shortlisted . A good CV layout and structure with sub-headings are very important. Chose the right Fonts for headings, subheading, and job description Keep your CV simple and professional. I will be sharing sample CVs with our subscribers. Ensure you do a thorough spell-check. Grammatical errors are a poor reflection. Chose The Right Words Recruiters and hiring managers do not have time to read every CV they get. Your CV must have the right words and the same (or nearest) as the required job description. So when you apply for a job ensure that if you have experience or knowledge or attended training in that “WORD” then add it to your CV. This may mean you would need a differently presented CV for almost every job, which is fine (Please make sure you do not misrepresent your CV). CVs are searched using Boolean criteria or ATS e.g (“Sales Engineer” AND “tender” AND “quotations” AND “JD Edwards”) means I am looking for the above words to appear at least once in your CV. If it is not there and your CV will be missed. Build and Maximise Your Network "It is always Who You Know and What You Know" that matters. Networking is often the best way to get a job. Connect with every potential person you know, starting from your first hiring manager and team members, to your present. If you have been good at your work and maintained a good rapport with your connections then of the 25 people you connect at least one may give you a lead. Getting references or recommendation of your work from decision-makers add value when you apply. Join online groups or job seekers and find out who is hiring and what role do they have. Seek advice and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your previous managers and support from your peers. They will guide and support you especially at this time. Market Your Own CV Often the best options for a job are your previous employers' competitors (or companies in the same industry or offering the same service). It is absolutely mandatory that you make sure you reach out to them. Given the fact that they may already know you or see very similar terminology, words, clients, etc in your CV, it will attract attention whether now or in the next few months. Given the current state of your job search, you should be contacting recruitment agencies, registering with online job portals, applying for jobs posted directly posted by the company on various media and websites, and networking. Make sure you start your new job( searching for one). Your working hours are 08:00 AM to 5:30 PM, 5-6 days a week with an hour off for lunch. Your travel - When you are called for an interview, our benefits, and perks - Depends on how well you are accomplishing your objectives. Take up a Temporary Job Bills still have to be paid. I speak to several candidates who are struggling for a job and they used to refuse jobs because they did not meet their salary expectations or the company was not a multinational. Your rent, groceries, water electricity, children's needs, etc still have to be paid. Cut your losses, don’t get stuck with a long gap in your CV. You may want to take up any temporary job or job completely out of your line because let's face it, you and I do not know how long before we get the next job. This would be only temporary solutions and require humbling ourselves to make ends meet. Remain Positive Staying motivated in your job hunt may not be that easy. There is a mental toll it would take. This would come from the stress of paying your bills, fear of the future, health reasons, etc. Depression and demotivation are looming. But there is a way out. It is extremely important that you have fresh air, a jog, a swim, or a light physical exercise to maintain a healthy positive mindset. A negative mind is definitely not what you need. You always have friends and family surrounding you even if you don’t realize it. Stay strong, there are millions in a similar boat. This situation too will pass and before you know it you will have a job. All the very best in your job hunt.

Getting a job in pandemic for many of us has almost become a full-time job. We are in unprecedented times with the global job market probably at its worst in decades. Below are recommendations from leading universities, established authors, and glass door blogs compiled into one master post to help you boost your chances of getting a job. Building Your Communication Skills Communication is a two-way street. If you are shy, don't be afraid. You are as much important as the other person is even if he or she is a Managing Director. Communication goes a long way in establishing a network and building relationships. Attending a public speaking course will definitely help you in the long run and boost your confidence. Being interested in asking the person more about them helps us to build bridges, get information and knowledge, and creates a network of possible job opportunities. No one likes a talkative self-centered person. How clearly you communicate dictates how easily you can be understood. Again some of direct and some nice and diplomatic – But that who you are and there is nothing wrong. Improve Your Network Like we all have our Facebook friends and best buddies, we need to create a “professional network”. These networks are those important people who can advise us, who are influencers in their field, leaders in the office, competitors, decision-makers, hiring managers, etc. Build a professional network based on our subject matter and interests. Attend events and meet new people. Your network will grow and so will your career prospects. Learn New Skills and Take Online Courses Surprisingly, it seemed that the experience and knowledge of most candidates I interviewed were limited to the work you do at the office and nothing beyond – No further learning, training, or courses outside the job responsibility. As a result, there was no real reason you can stand out amongst others who do a similar job There are several free online courses available. I have been learning Digital Marketing since March this year and still learning – 90 minutes of learning daily. I did a lot of reading on savings and investment, I realized that knowing about saving and investing, became a life requirement - The "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" series was very informative. I read about people's experts in recruiting and human resources and what makes them so good. I tried to understand what I lack they have mastered. Follow up your Interest and learn more– Knowledge is Power. Research Your Future Employers and Job Roles Researching companies of interest to you is very important. You can do market research yourself. The company website shares a lot of information, but connecting with employees at these companies will not only help you learn more about the company, their working style, culture, and how they treat their employees but also help you establish a contact there so that when an opportunity open up you CV can be internally recommended. Knowing if the company has downsized is also important information You may also want to find out suppliers of the company how promptly their bills are paid and the past employees and why they left. Don't be afraid to ask your network for help . Consider A Business of your Own Registering a company and conducting business is not always easy and requires far more responsibility and monetary risk, than being an employee. From m costs involved in obtaining the necessary licenses and visas to office overheads and salary may be added stress. But if you know you have the right contacts who can give you business and love working with you, then do a feasibility study on profits and losses before starting- Don’t start a business for the sake of being” business owner tag”. It's not worth the risk. But if you have the resources, it is a very good option, to start small with minimal investment and gradually grow over time. Become a Freelancer Help companies generate revenue or support them in their operations. If you have your own visa and adhere to all legal formalities of the country, then using your network (and keeping it to yourself) till you get a job. You may even want to consider working on a commission-based structure. This may work well with employers who want to avoid employee overheads but don't mind sharing a percentage of the new business. They have nothing to lose. Clean up Your Social Media The reality is that hiring managers are looking at your social media just as thoroughly as your resume or cover letter. In fact, 45% of hiring managers use social media to learn more about potential candidates. Be careful about what you post and what you “like”. Keep your social media clean. Help Others If you are not under financial constraint, then there are plenty of people you can help by offering advice, support, and even using your network to help get someone a job. The family's blessings will be with you and God will bless you in unimaginable ways when you reach out to others unselfishly. You may want to read these Top 6 tips for job hunt during the pandemic

Congratulations! you have just been shortlisted for an interview, Now is the time to get ready for answering the interview questions. You are going to get one shot at this job and depending on how much you really want the job, you are going to leave no stone unturned to ensure that you are the best candidate for the job. You may want to read these interview preparation tips to ensure you have not missed out anything You will of course need to prepare for the most commonly asked interview questions. Below are the top 10 most common interview questions and how to answer them. You need to practice, practice, and practice, not only answering these questions but a lot more. Practicing will help you reduce some of the interview stress and make you feel a lot more confident when you finally face the interviewers. Questions 1. Tell me about yourself ? The interviewer wants to know why you are an excellent fit for the job but from your bio not more about your personal life, not your work. So don't make this answer about your family, your personal life or your work. While out an start off by sharing your current position and employer talk more about what skills you have, what challenges you, what you enjoy doing at work, how you work with and support a team, how adaptable are you to changes, etc. Make sure each of these is directly related to a requirement in the skills mentioned in the job description. e.g "As a Sales Engineer, I find that the best way for me to de-stress when I’m not working is to challenge my interests. I am an avid hiker (individual challenges), enjoy soccer (teamwork and competition), love to read the " Top Performer Magazine " (corporate knowledge update), and doing research work. I participate in engineering quizzes and go up against those technically better than me, to help me improve, etc. " 2. Why should we hire you? The interviewer wants to know if you are the best candidate for the job. The hiring manager wants to know whether you have all the required qualifications. Be prepared to explain why you're the applicant who should be hired.  Make your response a confident, concise, focused s ales pitch to explain why you should get the job.  e.g "You should hire me because my experience is almost perfectly aligned with the requirements you asked for in your job listing. I have seven years’ progressive experience in the banking industry, advancing from my initial role as a compliance associate with Standard Chartered Bank to my current position as a Compliance Manager with Citibank. I’m CAMS certified and an Anti Fraud Analyst and well-versed in regulatory compliance, fraud compliance, AML, CDD and EDD, and Sanctions. I have letters of recommendation from both my previous employers, Standard Chartered Bank, and Lloyd's Bank."   3. What is your greatest strength? This is one of the questions that employers almost always ask to determine how well you are qualified for the position. They will compare your answer with those of candidates to determine if it sets you apart. e.g "As an IT security specialist, my greatest strength is my intellectual curiosity. I enjoy researching the latest technology trends so that our critical information technology systems remain compromised. I have participated in quarterly information technology conferences. This has allowed me to build a network of peer resources—many of whom are leaders in the field—that I can call upon for strategies when new threats arise to our systems".  4. What is your greatest weakness? Another typical question interviewers will ask is about your weaknesses. Do your best to frame your answers around positive aspects of your skills and abilities as an employee, turning seeming “ weaknesses ” into strengths. You can also share examples of how you have improved, providing specific instances of how you have recognized a weakness and taken steps to correct it. e.g "My greatest weakness used to be procrastination. Friends who knew my work style would tease me, saying, “ Panic precipitates performance .” In college, I was the person who pulled all-nighters to finish their essay the night before the deadline. However, after I landed my first job as a content writer, it became clear that while this process worked for me and I never missed a deadline, it made my editor extremely nervous. And so I’ve learned to set “ early ” deadlines for myself, at least 24 hours before the actual deadline, so that my projects now always arrive with plenty of time to spare".  5. Why do you want to leave (or have left) your current job? The interviewer wants to know why you want to work for their company. When asked about why you are moving on from your current position, stick with the facts, be direct, and focus your answer on the future, especially if your departure wasn't under the best circumstances.  e.g "I was very fortunate to be hired by ABC Company right out of college. They taught me a lot about digital marketing, and it’s been stimulating to work as a contributor to their creative teams. However, I’m ready for the next step. After 4 years at ABC Company who has a team of talented managers in place, there is little or no scope of growth since they won't be leaving such a good employer anytime soon. I’ve completed supplemental management training courses during my time there, and I know I can hit the ground running as your next digital marketing manager." 6. What are your salary expectations? The hiring manager wants to know what you expect to earn. It seems like a simple question, but your answer can knock you out of competition for the job if you overprice yourself. If you under-price yourself, you may get shortchanged with a lower offer.  It would be best that you understand beforehand what the budget for this role is? Is it within your expectations? If not, is there any scope of negotiation, and how much would the safe bracket be? e.g My answer would be "given the cost of living, I’m open to negotiate the salary if you feel I am the right candidate for this job and salary and am offered some flexibility in managing my family time." 7. Why do you want this job? This question gives you an opportunity to show the interviewer what you know about the job and the company, so take time beforehand to thoroughly research the company, its products, services, culture, and mission. Be specific about what makes you a good fit for this role, and mention aspects of the company and position that appeal to you most. e.g "Construction design is in my blood—both my dad and my grandad were civil engineers who worked for reputed construction firms. From the time I entered college, I knew that I wanted my architecture career to be focused on sustainable, green design practices, so I earned my certification as a LEED Accredited Professional. XYZ Construction is the most respected sustainable design firm. I’ve been following reports of your LEED Certified projects in the Journal of Green Engineering, and I wrote my capstone project on the energy modeling you pioneered for the Dubai Business Park and the ABC Tech campus. Working here really would be my dream job since your mission aligns perfectly with my goals as a sustainability specialist". 8. How do you handle stress and pressure? What do you do when things don’t go smoothly at work? How do you deal with difficult situations? The employer wants to know how you handle workplace stress. Avoid claiming that you never, or rarely, experience stress. Rather, formulate your answer in a way that acknowledges workplace stress and explains how you’ve overcome it, or even used it to your advantage. e.g "I’m not someone who thrives in stressful environments. My first step in managing stress is to try to keep my work processes very organized, and my attitude professional. When there is an issue, I try to look at things from the other perspective and initiate a joint problem-solving approach to keep the situation from escalating. I maintain an efficient open line of communication which I feel reduces a lot of workplace stress. Sometimes unanticipated stressors will arise. When this happens, I just take a deep breath, remembering that the person I’m dealing with is frustrated with a situation, not with me. I then actively listen to their concerns and make a plan to resolve the issue as quickly as possible".   9. Describe a difficult work situation or project and how you overcame it. The interviewer wants to know how you respond when faced with a difficult decision. As with the question about stress, be prepared to share an example of what you did in a tough situation. It’s important to share details to make the story believable and engaging.  e.g "I think the most difficult situation I face as a production manager is when I have to lay off staff, either because sales are down. When I can, I try to work with under-performing personnel to see if we can’t improve their efficiency. If not, then I give them straightforward reasons for why they are being laid off. No one wants to be fired without an explanation. When this happens, I keep my tone polite and avoid using too many “you” statements; I absolutely do not want to cast shame on them since it is the situation and not "them" 10. What are your goals for the future? This question is designed to find out if you’re going to stick around or move on as soon as you find a better opportunity. Keep your answer focused on the job and the company, and reiterate to the interviewer that the position aligns with your long-term goals. e.g "I’m someone who likes stability. My goal is to find a long-term job by becoming a valued employee and grow with an increased position and responsibility. I’m extremely interested in the executive job here at First Capital Bank because of your internal training program. My long-term goal is to eventually become a branch manager after I’ve proven my competencies in this position".

We are now more worried about losing our jobs than ever before due to COVID-19. As the global effects of the pandemic unfold and in many countries continue to rise, governments across the world have been taking maximum precautions and advising their citizens of all precautionary measures. Here in the UAE, with the strictest regulations to protect its residents – employers, employees, visitors, and resident visa holders, the financial impact on businesses has forced many companies to maximize steps to ensure business continuity. While many employers have been forced to restructure or downsize, resulting in job losses, others have reduced salaries, bonuses, and benefits. The UAE employment law has always been strict in ensuring employee protection due to its vast ex-pat population. While it is important that you read and listen to the latest government updates on your legal rights, below are some important legalities that you need to know. Can my employer force me to undergo medical screening and tests for COVID-19? Employers are taking maximum precautions to ensure your safety and prevent risks to your colleagues. Before implementing medical screening tests for you, your consent should be obtained and what steps would be taken, if any symptoms arise. Being transparent and having a clear policy regarding the same becomes important for you to know. In a situation that you refuse to undergo medical screening, what actions your employer could take, also needs to be communicated and updated in the employee handbook or company policy manuals, or official company communication. Can my employer make me self-isolate and work from home? If you are showing the symptoms of COVID-19, then it is highly recommended that you be on sick leave and therefore not working. If you show signs of mild or no significant symptoms, then there could be a consideration for you to work from home in self-isolation. If you are a work-from-home employee, then your employer must be able to consider the necessary infrastructure is provided to you to help you execute your responsibilities. Remote IT access and IT and personal data security, Call divert or call answering and call enabling facility, Access or procedure to access the printer (if required), Home-based office setup including stationery and supplies, etc are some examples. Your transport allowance may be adjusted for a home to office and office to home commute. Can my employer prevent me (if I have refused to self-isolate), from accessing the company's premises or coming into contact with my colleagues or clients? You and your employer will require to review your employment contracts. Any adjustment to the contract must be incorporated in official correspondence by your employer. Your employer is obligated to ensure your safety and that of all its employees to ensure the illness does not spread. Suspension from work may be an option when you, who have been advised to self-isolate, refuse to do so. Disciplinary action may be warranted if your employer's right to take action is legally confirmed. If the suspension does occur without any disciplinary measures in places such as warning letter or final warning etc, this suspension would be on full pay but again it could damage your trust and career with your employer. Your employer would have sought legal advice prior to such a measure. Can I be put on annual leave, paid sick leave, or any other type of leave? This will depend on your contractual obligation with your employer, and also other factors such as your health and financial state. As per the updated UAE employment Law, your employer can ask you to take A voluntary period of paid annual leave; Enforce a period of mandatory annual leave; If you have COVID-19 symptoms, then allow you to take sick leave. (This is 15 calendar days with full pay, 30 calendar days with half pay and 45 calendar days without pay under the UAE Labour Law and 60 working days under the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Employment Law) Enable you to work remotely wherever possible; If you voluntarily self-isolate and remain away from the workplace without discussing this with your employer, there may be more scope for considering such leave to be unpaid. Legal Advice is the best course that your employer will seek before they have made changes to your monthly salary or annual leave entitlements. If you have sufficient proof that's your right as an employee has been infringed, then obtaining legal advice is best recommended. Are there any privacy or data protection issues for my employer to consider? All your medical records are dealt with strictly confidentially and only shared with relevant personnel on a 'need to know basis. It is good to know how your employer treats data confidentiality especially medical details and family information. Your employer must obtain written consent should any formation need to be disclosed outside the authorized personnel. DIFC laws have their data protection legislation in place. If your employer is a DIFC registered company, then it has to have the appropriate permission from you before any personal data is transferred outside of the DIFC or to a group company. Can my employer prevent me from traveling outside of the UAE? Official guidelines and travel restrictions are available with all travel agencies and government press releases. Most employers are asking their employees to avoid unnecessary international travel. However, only if the UAE government issues a specific travel ban to particular countries, your employer will enforce it else they will only ask, request or advise such travel precautions as a company matter and this would not be legally binding. Is best to follow company recommendations unless absolute life and death emergency and you do not have another option. How should my employer handle workplace bullying related to the pandemic? There are reports of a rise in racial workplace bullying with regards to employees from countries experiencing a high number of coronavirus cases. This has predominantly been experienced by Chinese employees. The UAE is very strict about protecting employee rights to ensure no racial discrimination. If you are being harassed at your workplace because of this, it is best to approach your human resource department or company management. Legal options should be your last choice when all other hope fails. Mr. Luke Tapp, Partner at Pinsent Masons Law Firm in Dubai has published an article regarding Employer-Employee Rights during COVID-19.

Your job interview is never a " one-way street ". It is an opportunity for you to understand more about your prospective employer, as much as it is about your interviewer knowing if you are the most suitable candidate for the position. Hence your ability to ask the right questions about the work culture, employee engagement and expectations, and career development, will only help you gain information and empower you to make the right decision about the role and the company (especially if you have attended 2-3 interviews or even just one) Below are the top 13 questions that you can ask your interviewer at the end of the interview (even if you are not asked to). Was / Is there a person in this position? Why is he/she being replaced? This helps you understand if the position was (1) downsized, or the person's role (2) terminated, or if it is a (3) new position. What is challenging about this role? If this position is being restructured/downsized then why hire again (my guess is to bring in someone new at a lower salary which could mean there is the scope of a salary increase in the future if the role is being terminated then why? What did the person selected for this role lack expectations? This will help you understand if you can manage the role and also know the end result if you fail. If new, then a fresh mindset about the expectations of the role is required. How many candidates are being interviewed and what are the most important criteria that you would consider? You may have a better insight into the competition for this job and what did the interviewer feel about your interview and prospects. Hear the interviewer out carefully since you will get a hint of your prospects. The interviewer may also share their inability to give you feedback at this moment, but then again request for a " personal view" . What are the future plans for this position? Career development is the essence of all hiring. Why invest in hiring from outside when there is a lot of potential, experience, and knowledge of the business inside. Promotions also help in establishing a brand image and encourage employees to work harder and smarter. You will be able to know your planned career and time frame by asking this question. What makes you proud to work at this company? This is the interviewer's key selling point about his/her personal experience. The enthusiasm and words that follow will tell you a lot about the company. If the interviewer does not have an answer to give you, it normally spells " danger ". How does the organization support your professional development and career growth? You will get to understand more about training, seminars, brainstorming, etc. You may want to find an employer who supports you build the company by developing your own skills contribute more effectively. Is risk-taking encouraged, and what happens when people fail? Risky - Should I try something new to get better results or will I be fired if I do and fail. Should I just play safe and continue to do what I do best. This depends on your personality as a " risk-taker " versus " safe player " and also understand the company's way of conducting business. What role do company values play in hiring and performance reviews? How is performance evaluated? Is it based on a professional performance review and assessment or does it depend on "one" decision-maker? Are there established KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) for the job description? How are performance appraisals conducted and how are the outcomes of the results measured? Are new hiring encouraged or internal promotions? What is the one thing you would change about the company if you could? You will know that one important factor that the interviewer feels that needs to improve. My guess is it will not be shared, but then again many interviewers are transparent. This question is the equivalent of an interviewer asking you " What is your weakness and what are you doing to correct it? " What types of conflict arise and how is the conflict resolved? Conflicts between employees, its customers, and its vendors exist - personal conflicts and professional conflicts. What part the company plays in resolving these conflicts gives you a lot of insight into the company management style to ensure a healthy workplace. Are employees encouraged to give feedback, as much receive? Feedback is essential to ensure growth and development. As much as instructions or guidelines are to set a clear structure, understanding, process, and expectations. What and who is responsible to receive this feedback, how is it evaluated and decided. You do not want to be caught in a situation where feedback is encouraged but there is no process of evaluating and measuring it. Rather not give feedback (unless your constant feedback gets the attention of decision-makers) By asking these questions (or some of them) will help you get more answers to then enable you to make a more informed decision if this could be your future employer.

Interview Scheduled. You are all excited! You want to make the right impression. You print and review your CV for last-minute errors, find the interview location, and on the appointed date and time, head off to meet the interviewer. After 30 minutes you are done, feeling confident that the job is yours. Eagerly awaiting your next interview round call. Suddenly your hopes come crashing down as your eyes read an email informing you that your interview was not successful. You feel distraught, disappointed, and frustrated. You do not understand how could an interview you were so sure about, not gone your way. Was the interview fixed or the interviewed biased, or the company no good? The negativity continues to bring you down for all future interviews. These are all situations we have faced. I have faced them too, I have felt it and hear it from job seekers all the time. But wait... there is a way to avoid this and to minimize job rejections. It will be only a matter of time when you get the perfect job with the desired employer all because of the impression you have created. You should know these top reasons why you may not be unsuccessful at the interview. Never assume you can do well at the interview just because you work hard and do the job right. Your Research – Knowledge is Power You must review the company’s website and google all the information you can find. “Knowledge and Information are Power”, gather all the details you can find about the company including business expansions, publications, and awards. Casually reference the information during the interview. Find out who you will be interviewing with and learn something about them and their careers - LinkedIn would be a good source. and quote specifics, such as “I see the company has expanded into several new markets over the past year.” You will project the image of someone who is interested, does their homework, and pays attention to details. ​ Your Rehearsal – Practice, Practice, and Practice There are several questions that you are pretty much guaranteed to be asked during an interview: “Why do you want to work for this company?” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” and “Where do you see yourself in five years?”—to name a few. You may want to go through some common and some tricky interview questions Be prepared with insightful answers. You can practice with someone (or mirror practice) and answering the questions out loud (you may even want to record your practice sessions). This preparation work will make you more comfortable and confident during the interview. ​​ The Job Responsibilities and Gap Analysis Understand the job description and how you will add value to it if you are selected. Go through your CV thoroughly. You must know it better than the interviewer. Remember the interviewers motive is to assess you on what you have done/doing at work, how many transferable skills to the new job do you have and how quickly you can adjust, your longevity and loyalty, your career aspirations, and your personal suitability (your communication, behavior in situations and cultural suitability). It may be good to written points on a notepad during the interview. It is easier to ask questions and review the notes later. Be careful not to use certain words during the interview which we will share in the coming posts. You must know the difference (gap) between the required job description and your own work/knowledge and be prepared to fill the gap. Punctuality – There is no excuse for being late Be present at the venue at least 10 minutes prior to your interview. (maybe a good idea to visit the venue earlier to be familiar with traffic, parking, and most importantly the correct route). Being late for an interview creates a “being regularly late for work” impression or that the interview was just not important enough that warranted your before-time presence. Carry at least 2 extra copies of your updated CV, in case required along with your credentials - certificates, reference letters, etc. ​ Your Dress Attire An interview may be the only shot you have to impress the decision-maker in person, so make sure you are dressed impeccably. Do some research and find out what the corporate dress culture is before you walk through the door. A dark suit (jacket and pants or skirt) and a crisp white shirt, manicured nails, simple make-up, and clean, professional shoes (very important that you polish them (they tell a lot about the person) will be perfect in most cases. And, definitely avoid dangling earrings, too much perfume, and multiple, clanking bracelets. ​ Your Body Language Be aware of what you’re communicating through your posture and stance—and make sure it is good. Break the ice with an honest opening compliment. A confident handshake (No “fingers-only” handshakes! The proper, professional way to shake is using the entire hand, extending your arm (first if possible) for a firm, but not an overbearing grip, while rolling the index finger around the bottom of the other person’s hand) and a smile (s miling naturally will make you appear confident, friendly, and approachable. A smile conveys that you’re someone who can get along with fellow employees, your boss, and your clients), which makes a lot of difference. An upright posture and eye contact are in the top 4 body language signs. Not making eye contact with all the interviewers(if there is a panel), portraits less importance to the others, (or makes the interviewer feel you could be hiding something in the case on a single interviewer) ​ For example, sitting with your arms and legs crossed sends a message that you are closed-off or feel defensive. If you keep your hands in your lap the entire interview, you could signal that you lack self-confidence. And, twirling your hair can make you look nervous or juvenile. Take the water ( If your interviewer offers you a glass of water, take it, even if you’re not thirsty. This little act can help buy you time to formulate an answer to a difficult question or just give you a moment to center yourself) if you are offered. Next, always stand up when someone else comes into the room. Professionally, you lose respect and credibility by staying seated—it sends a weak and powerless message. Think your movements through ahead of time so you’re not distracted (or distracting) during the interview. ​ Your Table Manners Some interviews (usually second or third) are conducted over a meal, so being familiar with proper table manners is imperative to your interview success. Here’s why: The recruiter will be watching to see how you’ll conduct yourself at a meal with clients, how you handle accidents, and how you treat the wait staff. ​ Your Presentation Explain your responsibilities and your achievements clearly (don’t get boring with too much talk). Your answers must be to the point, in brief detail, and using the right keywords (such as if you are an accountant, use accounting terms, if you are a salesperson you must talk targets, numbers, achievements). Avoid closed-ended ("Yes" and "No") replies but try to fit in at least a one or two-line reply. It is very important that you realize, the duration of your interview is your "sales pitch" to convince the interviewer why you are most suitable for the position. Do not over exaggerate. Interviewers have the habit of cross-checking and you don't want to be caught misrepresenting or exaggerating. Be honest, be yourself, and/but be convincing. NEVER put down your current/previous employer. If you do so then you leave the impression that you may do the same if you get the job. Ask at least one positive and genuine question at the end of the interview e.g What is expected of 'me' if I am selected ? or How was my interview in your professional opinion? ​ Questions That You May Not Have Asked Keep in mind that the job interview is a two-way street. It’s an opportunity for you to sell yourself to the company, but also to learn more about the workplace to see if the position and environment are a good fit for you. Go in with a few questions, such as details about the type of work that the position entails, the corporate culture, and the typical career path of someone who holds the position. Typical questions can you can ask are Was / Is there a person in this position? Why is he/she being replaced? What has been most challenging that the company has found in this role? what are the interviewer's thoughts about your suitability in comparison with others? What are the future plans for this position? Is there any feedback that you can share about my interview? ​ And, don’t be scared to speak up: not asking questions can signal that you’re uninformed or uninterested. ​ A Proper Thank You Note You Missed Yes, even today, a handwritten note is mandatory. Sending a thank you letter via email is fine when the decision must be made quickly, but always follow up with written correspondence. (A voicemail message doesn’t take the place of a written note, either.) Express your thanks for the interviewer's time and for the chance to learn more about the company. It goes a long way in keeping your name on the interviewer's mind. A Different Person You cannot change the person you are. In most cases, it is not the best candidate who is selected, but the most suitable candidate. So even if you have done all of the above, there is still a chance that you may not get the job. A specific culture, approach, or behavior may be required by the employer. But needless to say, you will get a job soon with consistent interviews. ​ When it comes to interviewing, practice makes perfect, and knowing the rules ahead of time is a great start. So be prepared, be confident, and be yourself, and you’ll shine. Good luck!

Another day, another click to “connect” on LinkedIn. After checking—yet again—your stagnant inbox, you close your laptop in defeat. Another call from a recruiter telling you your CV was not shortlisted or your interview was unsuccessful. Your motivation graph drops after searching and applying for so many jobs. If you are struggling for a job, you may want to read more about the best jobs in the UAE during the pandemic . It’s easy to get stuck in this draining cycle. My experience in dealing with people in a job search has taught me that one of the biggest challenges is just maintaining the motivation to continue, especially when you are dealing with rejection and radio silence. But I also know that you can revive your motivation by making simple changes to your job-search approach, focusing less on all those resumes and cover letters , and more on you and what you want. You must climb out of your motivational slump. 1. Get Specific With Your To-Do List When your motivation is low, general job-searching tasks like “ network ” and “ redo resume ” can be overwhelming. A great way to instantly make your search seem more manageable is to rework your to-do list to include smaller, more specific tasks. For example, a friend planned out a goal to reach out to three direct contacts one day and three referrals the next for informational interviews. Both were easy to-dos that, over time, helped him reach his broader goal of expanding his network. In addition, when it came to actively apply, instead of telling himself he had to find more jobs in general, he gave himself a weekly target of four to five jobs. This was a realistic goal that allowed him to focus his attention on crafting the best job applications each week (and saved him time from writing a hundred cover letters). 2. Look Up Your Career Role Models When you’re job searching, reading description after description requiring “ five to seven years of experience ” in a certain field, it is hard to remember the truth about career paths: They are rarely linear. In fact, most successful people made loops, jumps, and a few skids to get to where they are today. So, step away from the job boards, jump onto Linkedin , and search for people who have your dream jobs or who work at companies you are interested in. Looking at the various ways people have gotten to where they are now will likely remind you that there is no straight path to success. Asking people to share a bit about how they got to where they are and some advice for your own search can be incredibly helpful—and motivating. 3. Seek Constructive Criticism from Your Supporters Your biggest fans can also be your most helpful critics—if you ask them to be . That supportive former co-worker, who believed in you, and friend who just gets you, all know your full potential and how you could improve. So, if you’re feeling like you’re trying everything but still getting nowhere, try asking them for some constructive criticism and be open to it rather than defending yourself. Identify where you are struggling, whether it is with resume formatting or interviewing , and ask for advice from the appropriate people. Based on their knowledge of your strengths and weaknesses, they can give specialized, honest advice (that will be motivating and realistic to put into practice than the generic tips you’re reading everywhere). Learn about how to create a perfect "sales pitch" in 30 seconds and practice it over and over again. It could be frustrating practicing, but you must keep going—and soon, you will be able to deliver an effective pitch that you can use when you meet potential contacts, hiring managers, or decision-makers. 4. Put Your Career Goals on Paper “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” is a question we all try to avoid. But right now, when you’re in a slump, is exactly the right time to answer it. Take some time to make a list of all of your dreams, big and small. Actually putting them on paper will force you to think about what you want to achieve and—better yet—motivate you to see at least one goal (if not all of them) through. Think of it kind of like a to-do list for your career: Seeing things on paper will get you excited to check things off. As an added bonus, seeing your dreams in writing may give you some ideas on how to tie them together. A few days ago I spoke to a family member who has a passion for teaching and is a Communication Manager (now looking for a job). I suggested that she could contact colleges and universities to look for a part-time position as a teacher/trainer of Corporate Communications and even create her own online training material and videos. 5. Take Days Off At one point, I was doing something business development-related every day, from going on informational articles to searching for companies who are hiring. I was feeling burned out. And I found myself losing sight of my main objectives and looking for prospective clients, even if they were not right for my business. What I realized is that the best way to deal with a motivational slump of any sort is to take a few days off. Pre-determined free days—where you get some time off from thinking about resumes, cover letters, and interview questions—can alleviate all those frustrations and help restore your drive. By taking a few days off here and there, I found that I was able to refocus and better tackle the search when I was ready. You will stumble a few times during this process, and, along the way, learn the importance of making the search about you—not just the job. Give yourself manageable goals, time to regroup, and countless, countless lists, which all helped me to power through and now lead a recruitment company. The job search doesn’t have to be a daunting task every time you open your laptop. These tips can work for you.