Jarmila Jackson, Features Writer
Wilkinson - Photo by Jarmila Jackson
It's early May and exams at the University of the West Indies (UWI) are in full swing. There is tension on many faces, combined with rapid nailbiting and page turning. The campus is almost silent except for those students audibly swatting. A swarm of students spills out over the campus. They have just completed the day's first examination.
Garth Wilkinson is in his final year at the institution. His intention is to pursue a career in law. At the end of the term, he will add to his list of qualifications, a bachelor's degree in psychology. He is well aware of the thousands of others with similar qualifications with whom he must compete for jobs and has taken steps to prepare for this competition.
"Right now I hear that there are individuals with university degrees working at gas stations. I get paid $1,000 a week for tutoring and I use that money for a consultant. The consultant basically advises me on ways to improve my résumé, ways to improve my personal outlook within the interview and outside the interview, and gives me personal dress advice," he said.
Having done three interviews since April, Garth has already had the experience of the two extremes and has learned that when preparing for an interview, one's attire should be professional, but modest.
Attractive resume
"I have been overdressed for an interview and to compensate, underdressed for another interview! On neither occasion did I get the job."
Garth acknowledges the importance of an attractive résumé.
"The last time I was sending out a résumé and I emailed a copy to the person, after reviewing it, she decided that it wasn't catchy enough. It wasn't flashy enough, it never stood out in any way. The typical résumé doesn't stand out and if yours doesn't stand out, then it is absolutely pointless."
There is also the 'links' factor driving a number of students, said Garth. Personal affiliation with someone within the desired industry is always a plus. "Sometimes they don't even consider you unless they know you or are associated with you."
Confidence, Garth believes, is another important factor in getting a job. "My grandfather had this technique where he'd tell me to stand in front of a mirror and practise telling myself that I was the greatest human being that ever existed."
This, he hopes will help him land a job.
Laura Butler, managing director of Invision Training Consultants, shares some tips on how to prepare for an interview
"Remember that between 60 and 70 per cent of all human communication is non-verbal. This simply means every effort should be made to present the best of you and this includes your résumé', attire, and attitude."
Getting started
Make a list of all the things you plan to implement to bring about the greatest opportunity for improvement and maintain standards. Remember that our negative thoughts only serve to hold us back, cripple us from moving forward.
Review values and beliefs. Have a positive outlook (mental hygiene) and a plan of action (be proactive).
Develop a better understanding of yourself.
When preparing for an interview:
Do research on the company, know the mission statement, how long the company has been in business, its competitors, its culture, number of branches and as much information on the company that you can obtain. This will put you in a better position to answer questions or use to your advantage during the interview. This also communicates an interest in the organisation.
Dress appropriately; an outfit that is clean, in the best condition, compliments your body type and is professional.
Have a copy of your resume
4. Know the interviewer's correct name and pronunciation as well as what the job entails.
Be on time, at least 15 minutes early and take the opportunity to compose yourself and observe. If you are kept waiting for a long time, please stay focused and have a positive attitude. Do not allow your frustrations to show whether in tone of voice or body language.
Have a list of additional information that is not on the résumé and can help your position.
Questions to think about prior to the interview:
Why am I applying for this job and to this company?
What positive things can I bring to this company?
Where do I see myself in the next five years?
What are my strengths?
How would I describe myself?
During the interview:
Maintain a good posture.
Make eye contact and give a firm handshake.
Listen attentively.
Clear your mind of things unrelated to the interview.
Ensure that your cellular phone is switched off.
Be respectful and courteous.
Have a positive attitude.
Smile and be pleasant.
Be prepared to share your knowledge of the company.
Have a pyramid approach, the most important information out first.
Remember to make the most of the time, as the interview may not be as long as you would like.
Following these tips and keeping a positive attitude will go a long way in getting the desired results.
