Appearance
A favourable first impression always counts
Neat clothes, brushed hair, clean fingernails are the basics
The choices of outfits must match the post and its job nature. For instance, in the case of a clerical/ executive post, a male applicant should put on a shirt with a tie, a pair of trousers; a female applicant should put on a decent skirt and may wear some simple make-up.
Choose the clothes that fit you and are relatively new. But do not need to buy a new suit for every interview.
Check your appearance again before entering the interview room.
Reminders for Male Applicant
If you are going to wear a men’s suit, pick one with darker colour like black, grey, dark blue, etc. You will look more mature, professional and reliable.
Keep your leather shoes clean and shiny with shoelaces fastened.
Design of the tie should match the business nature of the company/ trade and job requirements. For instance, ties with darker colours and simpler patterns are the norm in professional trades like accounting and legal fields whereas ties with trendy design can build up your own image and may be more preferred in advertising or design companies, etc.
Reminders for Female Applicant
Business suits are more elegant. You may choose skirts or pants. The design and colours may depend on the job nature and company culture.
Simple cutting and colours are preferred in most cases.
Colour of silk stockings should be close to the tone of your skin. Avoid stockings with flowery patterns which may give an artificial and immodest impression to the interviewers.
Simple and natural makeup will demonstrate your sincerity and genuineness in attending the interview. You do not have to wear heavy makeup.
Do not wear excessive ornaments and the style should be kept simple.
Avoid tight, thin and sexy clothes.
Never use perfumes with overly strong scent. Choose one with lighter fragrance if you wish to put on some.
Do not wear shoes with very high heels or tight shoes.
Mannerism
Do not go with a companion or you may look immature and dependent.
Try not to be too nervous. Wear a confident and natural smile. This can help ease your anxiety and build up a harmonious atmosphere during the interview. At the same time, you can convince the interviewer that you are full of confidence and are capable of coping with pressure.
Before the Interview
Greetings
Remember to tell the receptionists that you are there for interview. They may not know if you just sit down and do not say a word.
Be courteous to all members of the staff who may be your colleagues in the future.
Knock the door before you enter the interview room. Greet the interviewer and politely ask whether you should close the door.
Shaking Hands
Needless to shake hands with the interviewer proactively. Observe whether they have the intention to do so and respond accordingly.
Shake hands naturally. Do not use too much or too little force.
Don’t feel ashamed because of your sweaty hands and thus avoid shaking hands. You may wipe your hands before entering the room.
During the Interview
Eye Contact and Nodding
Maintain eye contact with the interviewers. Nod occasionally to exhibit your attention and agreement to what the interviewer says. This will make a sincere and serious impression.
Do not nod too eagerly. You may look as if you are impatient or want to interrupt.
Do not look around when you are speaking. The interviewer may take this as a sign of your lack of interest in the post/ company.
Body Language
Don’t take a seat until you are told to do so. Keep your back straight while sitting.
Beware of your body language. Be gentle and elegant.
Crossing your legs while sitting, swaying your body, crossing your arms before your chest, leaning towards the seatback, resting your face on you hand(s), etc. are all improper gestures.
Stay away from the following behaviours if you do not want to look unsure and impolite:
Crinkle your shirt or tie and put your hands into the pockets of your pants.
Smooth down your hair frequently.
Play with your finger/ ball pen, move up your spectacles very often, or cover your mouth with your hand while speaking.
Before the Interview Ends
Say thank you and goodbye before you go.