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Sabi nga nila, “First impressions lasts”; they are everything - from how you introduce yourself to how that image is perceived by and imprinted on others.  Isang tingin lang sa iyo, minsan wala pang 5 minutes ay makilala na ang pagkatao mo - your appearance, body language, attitude, and manners at hindi ka pa nakakapag salita nun. First impressions are hard to change, and that can be especially challenging during a job interview, particularly if you get off on the wrong foot. You get no more than 15 to 30 minutes at most, and that’s when you make it or break it. It is normal to be nervous before a job interview, but there are tricks and tips to be adopted to make sure you nail it, so that you wrap it up feeling proud and accomplished.

The primary point to take into account is confidence: be positive, share your experiences and show your qualifications. Work on your communication skills, and that means speaking clearly and being concise about what you would bring to the employer and the company. To break it down, here are our seven tips to make sure you rock that interview.

1. Prepare and Practice

Practice how you would like to talk about yourself and your skills during your interview. Mag-isip ka ng mga posibleng katanungan and rehearse your responses. It is important that you are, feel, and look confident. Make a list of what is required for the job, and how your skills would match it.

2. Do A Background Check

Do your research. Who will you be potentially working for? What kind of company is it, what values do they go by? What is their mission and how are you the perfect fit in their puzzle? Make sure to get the interviewer’s name, as creating a personal connection will make you more memorable, and increase your chances of getting the job.

3. Be On Time

Bawal ang late, for any kind of appointment, don’t just be on time, be there five to 10 minutes early. No one likes “running late” excuses, and everyone respects time-consciousness.

4. Be Open And Confident

The interview is to get to know you what you’re capable of. So ipakita mo lang yung totoong ikaw at maging kumportable. Show confidence and assertiveness. Be proud of your skills and show what you can do, but not in an egoistic or aggressive way as being humble is also key. When you have already prepared and practiced, openness and confidence will flow smoothly.

5. No Stress

Stay calm and bawal ma-stress. You got this! Be aware of your body language as that will say a lot about how you are actually feeling. Kaya mo yan!  Keep a straight posture, put your hands on the table or where they can be seen (don’t fidget!), keep eye contact and listen well. Paying attention to details is also important and will highlight your work ethics.

6. Show What You Know

Sell yourself - if there was ever a time to do it, it’s now! Relate what you have learnt about the company in your way. As you speak of your skills and experiences, relate them to what the company is looking for.

Habang nagsasalita ka ng iyong mga kasanayan at karanasan, iugnay ang mga ito sa kung ano ang hinahanap ng kumpanya Be knowledgeable and smooth, but don’t overdo it.

7. Wear Your Smile

Last but not least, wear your best smile. Kailangan laging happy cause everyone likes a happy face. As you wear your smile, exhibiting a happy, confident demeanor, it will in turn make you feel happier and more confident too. Adding a touch of humour is always a winner too.

Going for a job interview doesn’t get any easier over the years, but we do improve in our communication and presentation skills. These tips will ensure you an enjoyable and smooth interview. So chin up, head up, aim big and good luck with that job abroad!

©2018 Ikon Solutions Asia, Inc.

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