Securing the job in 2k19 #Careerbae #Interview101

Sometimes applying for a job in Dubai can feel like a fairytale nightmare. You have to avoid chaos like losing your shoes and are anxiously waiting for the time where you transform from rags to riches.

Fear not, your Fairy Goddess Mama is here – Often there are skills you can pick up from your personal life, that you did not even know you had that can help you become the perfect #careerbae.

Slay the Resume

Preparing For An Interview Tips - The Modern East

This is your first impression. Your electronic application for a conversation to meet, to turn into something meaningful and even life changing. Kind of like a Tinder Profile. Except in this situation the application is for something that could pay your bills *cues destiny’s child* (wasteman need not apply).

So – with the same fine-tooth comb, craft every word, think of your tone and how it reads. Take special note of your grammar – we all know those guys who love correcting your use of “your vs. you’re”

The biggest tip we can give you here, is that it’s not just your resume that needs to be pristine, but the packaging too. Which means make sure your cover letter must be well researched, not boring, not too long (we don’t want to look desperate) and certainly well-spaced/ paragraphed.

This is the equivalent to your first text, so make sure you are conscious of how you come across. You should highlight your strengths in context to what the company needs. And though this may seem painfully obvious, spell check every line, re read every email before sending it so you do not sound like that guy Wh0 tEXt$ LiK3 D1$ !

Keep all your messaging impactful, concise and neat. Let them know that you are interested but also that you are worth their time. Nobody wants a messy, overly keen or needy text before the first date has even happened.

Last but not least, we will put you on to the face tune of resumes Canva or Design Feed. Use the templates to find something that will help you stand out but still matches the vibe of the company.

Facts + Fashion

Preparing For An Interview Tips - The Modern East

So – you have made it past Round 1 and secured an interview. What now?

Ask yourself the same questions as your first date – minus the “Are we going to kiss” (The answer is No, Harvey Weinstein). Questions like “What do I wear” and “What will we talk about” or “What do we have in common” are good starting points.

Go into your first meeting prepared (shout out to our BFF stalk engine Google) and find common ground in your interests, aspirations and achievements that are relatable to what the company represents or can provide.

For the real deal, a google search is not sufficient. Check out their social platforms – Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.  to find out who their squad is (who they work with), the stories behind their Ex’s (their previous work) and show interest on what they seem to have on the horizon.  

When it comes to your fit, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” After all the stalking, you should be an expert on the brand. Take into consideration:

  • Conservatism (not trying to look like a shady lady)
  • Tone (a combination of loud or soft colors),
  • Style (is the brand edgy, corporate or very traditional)
  • Hair and make-up (professional bun or luscious locks vs. a face beat for the Gods vs. team natural.)

Most importantly, in all this research, find a way to still bring your identity to the interview table. Make sure you do not get lost in what they want, instead find a way to show them the strengths of yourself that fit the profile of what they want. Make sure to match in that appropriate accessory/ lip color or pop of color that is unapologetically you.

Find the connection

Preparing For An Interview Tips - The Modern East

 

 

Making an impression is hard work, but leaving the correct impression in an interview is what seals the deal.

The key to being confident is to be yourself, even if that means to let them hear a nervous chuckle, make an awkward (so long as it’s appropriate) joke – own it (but also don’t have a nervous breakdown).

Listening to the question before answering is key, make sure you fully understand what they are asking even if it means asking them to explain the question further. This can prevent nervous tangents, demonstrate you aren’t afraid of communication and that you value clarity.

It is also important to prepare talking points, pick three things that are your strongest selling points. Remember this is not a speech, so find ways to integrate them casually into your conversation or answers. If the opportunity presents itself, subtlety lead the conversation to your experience or how you can add value to a brand based on what they try to achieve.

Keep it 100, Hunty

Preparing For An Interview Tips - The Modern East

For all the first timers, with no work or volunteer experience, don’t stress– the “first interview” nerves are completely normal. Channel your inner Beyonce. Don’t tell yourself to #fakeittillyoumakeit, but instead #knowyourworth. Interviewers can sense fakeness and the worst impression to leave is one that you are not genuine or trust worthy. By being honest with yourself and your interviewer, remember never to over or undersell yourself.

Instead, focus on how you can add value with your life skills and what you learned in school programs. Remember that what you lack in experience, you can make up for in demonstrating passion, willingness to learn, grow and work hard.

With these tips, you’ll become a #careerbae in no time.

If you’re looking for tips in what a #careerbae holds in her purse, you need to check this out!

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WRITTEN BY :

Omaya Michelle

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