Marketing yourself through interviews

Mariselle Stofberg
Katelinn Spangenberg

I believe we all, as learners, have heard about the adult world and how difficult it is. A huge part of being an adult is undertaking interviews – by trying to prove yourself worthy in the interviewee’s eyes. Interviews for jobs might seem easy until you realize the hefty criteria you need to cover.

Think of yourself as a product and the way you have to market yourself is through an interview.

The purpose of a job interview is, not only to determine your intelligence but, to see if you are a capable and efficient individual with great interpersonal skills. Before going to a job interview you should do extensive research on the job you are applying for and prepare yourself beforehand. Most people are not the same and do not have the same personality or beliefs as another but it is important for you to be positive, have the right attitude and present yourself as well as possible.

"Confidence is one of the elements you definitely need to have." Mr. Muatunga, De Duine’s beloved Life Skills teacher, says.

With preparation comes confidence which is vital in an interview - it will boost your moral value and will show that you are a person that does not shy away from anything. Body language is essential and can determine how confident you are in yourself and your answers. To prevent fidgeting you can fold your hands in your lap. You need to also display a good human character and prove that you are reliable and hardworking. Good conversational skills are needed to convey how verbal you will be in the workplace. Confronting problems and giving solutions to better the workplace.

The panel will not only analyse the way you answer your questions but also the way you present yourself. In that aspect you should dress appropriately and not provocatively because the first impression counts. All tattoos must be covered and women are advised to were minimal or no make-up. You are going to be representing their company, therefore your appearance and tidiness is judged.

Compose yourself during the interview and always maintain eye contact, this establishes trust and shows you have nothing to hide. If you do not understand a question do not be afraid to ask for a repeat. Being inquisitive and thorough will establish how important the job is to you. In the interview you are trying to persuade the interviewer that you are the best candidate for the position. Giving your strengths while also working on ways to overcome your weaknesses or problem areas.

"Use proper language, try not to use habitual phrases or slang" Ms. Somses advises.

You are rated according to your language proficiency which is very important, although the panel is not too strict on this as long as you score high marks through the quality of you interview, work experiences and qualifications.

The documents you will need are your Curriculum Vitae (CV), application letter, supporting documents such as your identification document, testimonial, school leaving certificate of Grade 12, academic qualifications and any type of certificate of attendance in case of a work shop. Use relevant information, depending on the position you are applying for.