In today’s competitive job market, standing out in an interview is crucial. Navigating the job market can be intimidating for young professionals, especially when it comes to acing an interview. To make a strong impression and increase your chances of landing that dream job, preparation is key.
As the HR Director at Penquin, a leading brand and communications agency in South Africa, Annemie Burger has extensive experience in identifying and placing the right talent to match both the role and company culture. She understands the crucial balance between finding candidates who not only have the skills to succeed but also align with the company’s values and environment. This careful approach ensures that both the employee and the organization can thrive together, leading to a workplace where employees are encouraged to grow, feel fulfilled, and deliver their best work. This strategy has contributed significantly to making Penquin a dynamic and enjoyable place to work, where talent is nurtured and creativity flourishes.
Do Your Homework
It might sound obvious, but preparation is critical. Take the time to thoroughly research the company, understand its mission, values, and recent news, and familiarise yourself with the role you’re applying for. ” Ensure you know key information around the company and the role you are interviewing for,” Annemie says. “I often find that candidates don’t always make a real effort to come prepared.” Knowing key information about the company and the person you’ll be meeting shows you’re serious about the opportunity.
Prepare Insightful Questions
Annemie admits that it’s surprising how many candidates struggle to discuss their resumes. Candidates should be able to comfortably discuss every aspect of their CV, including previous work experiences, skills, and timelines. “Knowing your resume well shows that you’re confident and comfortable with your experience and what you bring to the role,” she says. “Be ready to provide detailed examples of your achievements and contributions in previous roles.”
While it may not always come up in the first interview, be prepared to discuss your salary expectations if asked. Research typical salaries for the position, and consider your experience, skills, and the industry standard. It’s essential to know your worth but also to be realistic. “Don’t aim too high and risk pricing yourself out of the job,” Annemie warns. “Instead, have a range in mind that reflects both the market value and your qualifications.”
Master the STAR Method
One technique that can help you effectively communicate your experiences is the STAR method:
- Situation: Describe the context within which you performed a task or faced a challenge.
- Task: Explain your responsibilities in that situation.
- Action: Detail the specific actions you took to address the challenge or task.
- Result: Share the outcomes, highlighting your accomplishments and the impact of your actions.
This method provides a structured way to present your skills and achievements, demonstrating how you’ve handled specific tasks or projects in the past.
