Attending a job interview is one of the most important stages in the hiring process. Many applicants lose opportunities because they don’t know what to expect, how to behave, or how to respond when called. This guide will help job seekers understand every step, from answering the interview invitation call to the actual interview conduct.
1. HOW TO RESPOND WHEN YOU RECEIVE AN INTERVIEW CALL
When the company calls to invite you:
✓ Answer professionally:
- Greet first
- Speak clearly
- Be polite
Example:
“Good day, speaking to [Your Name].”
“Thank you for the opportunity. I will attend the interview.”
If you miss the call:
- Call back immediately
- Introduce yourself
- Explain you are returning the missed call
Information to write down during the call:
- Company name
- Interview date & time
- Venue
- Name of interviewer
- Documents needed
Never say these:
✗ “Who is this?”
✗ “I’m busy. Call later.”
✗ “Send me a WhatsApp.”
✗ Slang such as “Sharp”, “Yebo”, “Eish”.
2. WHAT TO EXPECT IN A JOB INTERVIEW
Most interviews include:
- Introduction
- Motivation questions
- Work-related questions
- Strengths & weaknesses
- Scenario questions
- Final questions
Example scenarios:
- “How will you handle a difficult customer?”
- “What will you do if a co-worker steals?”
3. HOW TO ANSWER INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
- Tell us about yourself
Short and professional.
Example:
“My name is [Name]. I am a hardworking and reliable person with experience in customer service and teamwork. I am committed, willing to learn and able to work under pressure.” - Why do you want this job?
Example:
“I want this job because I believe in your company values and want to grow in a professional environment where I can learn and contribute.” - What are your strengths?
Examples:
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Time management
- Fast learner
- Problem solving
- What are your weaknesses?
Example:
“I sometimes overthink tasks, but I am improving my planning and learning to trust my decisions.” - Why should we hire you?
Example:
“You should hire me because I am reliable, willing to learn and able to adapt quickly. I will add value to your team.” - How do you handle pressure?
Example:
“I stay calm, organise my tasks, and focus on finding solutions. I perform well in busy environments.”
4. WHAT TO WEAR FOR AN INTERVIEW
MEN
✓ Clean shirt
✓ Black/grey trousers
✓ Closed shoes
✓ Simple haircut
✓ No heavy cologne
WOMEN
✓ Neat blouse & trousers or skirt
✓ Simple dress (not short)
✓ Closed shoes
✓ Light makeup
✓ No flashy jewellery or long nails
GENERAL
✓ Clothes must be ironed
✓ Avoid bright colours
✓ Look clean, neat and professional
5. WHAT TO BRING TO THE INTERVIEW
Bring a neat folder with:
- 2 copies of your CV
- Certified ID copy
- Certified certificates
- Pen & notebook
- References
- Application letter (optional)
- Water bottle
Never arrive empty-handed.
6. INTERVIEW DO’S AND DON’TS
DO’S
✓ Arrive 20–30 minutes early
✓ Greet politely
✓ Maintain eye contact
✓ Sit properly
✓ Speak clearly
✓ Smile and stay confident
✓ Thank the interviewers at the end
DON’TS
✗ Don’t chew gum
✗ Don’t use your phone
✗ Don’t lie
✗ Don’t talk too much or too little
✗ Don’t interrupt
✗ Don’t look stressed or angry
✗ Don’t use slang
7. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE INTERVIEW
You may receive:
- Immediate feedback
- A second interview
- A test or assessment
- A waiting period (1–3 weeks)
Follow up politely after 5–7 days:
“Good day, I am following up regarding my interview on [Date]. I am still interested in the position. Thank you.”
This guide helps job seekers stay confident, prepared and professional during interview invitations and in-person interviews.