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Alam niyo ba this is an important interview question we get from job seekers wanting to work abroad. If you really want the job, you don’t want to say anything to keep yourself from getting it. At the same time, you will get fired for lying during the application or interview process. So, gaano ka ba ka-honest? What should you do?

Here are two simple rules:  

1. Don’t lie. Walang kabutihang mangyayari dito. Lying will keep you from getting the job if the company finds out you lied on your application or in your interview. Even if they don’t figure it out until later, you will still get fired. Also, if you find the job through a recruiting agency, like Ikon Solutions, recruiters will be very cautious when trying to recruit you to a new position.

2. Don’t be too concerned about having the exact skills. Hindi kailangang perfect ka! There’s no need to beat yourself up because you don’t have a certain skill. For example, if the interviewer asks about a computer program that you’ve rarely used, it’s fine to say that you are familiar with the program but will need to brush up on it to make sure you do a great job.

Use these two rules as guidelines to help you decide how to answer those tough interview questions. Kunwari your interviewer asks if you are proficient in Microsoft Excel. Here are examples of how you might respond if Excel is not your strong point.

• If you have experience with Excel but you are not great with formulas, just be honest. Many people are not familiar with formulas in Excel. Tell the interviewer about your experience and where you think you need to improve. If Excel interests you, be sure to say that you are ready to learn.

Why you should be honest:  The interviewer may be willing to train you in the areas that you need to develop. If training is not available, the interviewer may appreciate you for being honest and consider you for other positions that do not require extensive use of Excel.

• If you have used Excel a few times but you are not comfortable with it, you should clearly explain that Excel is not your strong point. Then describe your experience, including the actions you know how to do (enter data, sum totals, etc.). If you are good with computers in general, you can reassure the interviewer that you pick up new skills quickly.  

Why you should tell the truth: The interviewer may not need an expert in Excel, so your basic knowledge and a little training may be all it takes for you to be successful on the job. However, if you are not honest and the interviewer finds that you don’t know Excel at all after you get the job, he or she will quickly lose trust in you.

• If you have never used Excel before, there are free online courses, including courses at www.udemy.com, which will show you how Excel works. If you complete the training, you can honestly tell the interviewer that you have not used Excel as part of your job before, but you have recently taken an online course to help you get ready for this job. Be sure to mention that you are willing to learn everything you need to know.  

Why you should tell the truth: If you don’t have the skills you need for the job, you should not lie to get a job that you probably can’t keep. This may just not be the right job for you. However, if you are honest, the interviewer may appreciate that you made an effort to learn Excel on your own and that you did not waste everyone’s time with dishonesty. This will increase your chances of being considered for a future position.

Here we have used the example of Excel, however, this applies to any skills required for the job you are applying for abroad.

When it comes to job interviews, the old saying is true: Honesty is the best policy. Remember to always express your willingness to work hard and overcome the interviewer’s concerns about your background. Put your best foot forward, and you’ll be on your way to the job that’s right for you. Kaya mo yan!

©2017 Ikon Solutions Asia, Inc.

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