Have you been called for interviews and you’re not sure of how to go about it? Let’s walk together.

Take note that:

a). An interview is just a conversation between a person/people/recruiter/Interviewer seeking your services and you the prospective service provider (interviewee). 

b). An interview is not a war, neither is it a do-or-die. It’s just a conversation. How you use that short time determines your chances of acing the interview.

c). Use that limited time to market yourself. Show the recruiter that you’re indeed the person they’re looking for. 

DOs:

1. Exhibit high confidence levels throughout the conversation. 

2. Maintain eye contact with the person asking you.

3. Reach the interview venue on time (at least 30 minutes before). This allows you time to scan the environment, interact with a security guard and receptionist who have information about the organization, and fellow job seekers, review some literature from the handbook and manual about the organization’s mission, culture, work environment, values, goals, products/services, recent news or developments and policies, visit their official website, social media profiles, and any other relevant sources for more information and commentary.

4. Be smart. Maintain neat short nails, and short hair, avoid open shoes, short skirts, and bra starters. 

5. Have a notebook from which to make summaries and notices. This exhibits some form of being organized.

6. Adequately read and understand in detail every aspect of the Job description (Duties and responsibilities). Reading the provided description allows you to decide your suitability for the posted role and whether or not you wish to continue pursuing it or put your efforts toward another job. Meaningfully a job description also allows you to cater your own provided content so the employer sees you as a top contender. 

Example:

In an HRO Job advert, you can find duties like:

i). Managing the recruitment and selection processes. You’ve to understand all the aspects of the recruitment process as a function of Human Resource Management. Such aspects include; Job analysis (job description and job specification); job posting and advertisements; application procedures; CV, resume, and cover letter screening; interviews; selection process; relying on feedback to unsuccessful candidates; conducting background checks (references, verification of employment record and criminal records); Offer of employment and employment contracts; Job acceptance letter; orientation and onboarding. 

ii). To ensure compliance with labor and employment laws. Understand the labor and employment laws that at all times must be adhered to. For Uganda’s case, these include; the NSSF Act, 2022; URA (PAYE), Occupational Health and Safety Act, 2006; the Employment Act, 2006; Workers Compensation Act, 2000; Labor Unions Act; 2006; Minimum Wages Advisory Boards Act, 1984; Public Holidays Act, 2009; Pension Act, 2007; Employment Regulations, 2011; and the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda. 

Do that for all the other duties and responsibilities in the job advert.

7. Gather all necessary documents. 

Prepare copies of your Transcripts, Certificates, resume, references, National ID/Passport, COVID Vaccination Card etc in time.