20 Ways to Succeed In a Job Interview in UAE

As you step into the interview room, you are one step closer to landing your dream job. However, many job seekers fail to realise the importance of a job interview and how it can impact their chances of getting hired.

A job interview is a two-way street; it’s an opportunity for you to learn about the company and for the employer to learn about you. For this reason, job seekers should make sure they prepare in advance and know exactly what to expect from a potential employer.

Job interviews can be stressful for everyone, especially when you are in a new country and you do not know what to expect. The following are five tips that will help you succeed in an interview in the UAE.

Ensure that you have researched the company thoroughly and have read their website and press releases, if available. Also, you should research your interviewer’s background as well if possible.

The most common type of interview is the behavioural interview, where employers want to know how you handled a certain situation previously. Therefore, it is important to be prepared with examples from your work history that demonstrate your experience or skills for the job.

It is critical to dress appropriately for an interview as first impressions are everything. A suit and tie with polished shoes are required for men, while women should wear a conservative suit or blouse and skirt with closed-toe shoes. Both genders should ensure their hair is neat and clean.

Here’s how to succeed in a job interview in UAE:

1. Be professional 

First impressions count, so make sure you look professional at all times. This includes wearing appropriate clothing and being on time for your interview. When you are called in for your interview, greet the interviewer and shake his hand firmly with a smile on your face.

2. Demonstrate enthusiasm

During an interview, potential employers want to see that you have the enthusiasm and drive they are looking for in an employee. So, show them that you are eager to learn more about the company, its values and its culture by asking thought-provoking questions during your interview.

3. Be prepared

Be prepared for the interview by researching the company and the job you want. Practice answering questions about your skills and experience and make sure you can talk about what makes you unique.

Do not forget to check more details about the company and the job role offered to you. There are plenty of resources like LinkedIn and other portals.

Go to LinkedIn.com to find out who is working here in this company, who has worked before, and what feedback past employees have said about the role or company. All this information helps you be informed and handle any kind of difficult questions.

4. Dress for success

Dress for success by wearing something that is appropriate for the position you’re applying for. Don’t wear too much cologne or perfume, and make sure your shoes are clean and polished. Also, take care of any personal grooming issues before the interview.

5. Arrive on time

Give yourself plenty of time to get to your interview, and plan on arriving at least 15 minutes early. Allow extra time if you’re unfamiliar with the area or if there is bad weather. If you’re running late, be sure to call and let them know.

6. Be confident

Remember that an interview is a two-way street: it’s an opportunity for both you and the interviewer to see if this is a good fit! Stay focused on the main reason you are there – the job – but don’t be afraid to ask questions about how things work or how people interact with each other.

7. Prepare in advance

This is the most important advice to follow through: preparing in advance. Make sure you know everything about the company, the job profile and its requirements, and also how to present yourself. Nothing impresses an interviewer more than a well-prepared candidate. You need to impress your interviewer, and that’s why you should take the time to do your homework before the interview.

8. Remember to smile!

When entering the room, smile at the employer, even if you are feeling nervous or stressed out. The first impression is always important, and if you can set a positive tone right from the start, it will help make a good impression on your interviewer. By smiling, you’ll make a good first impression, and by doing so, you will help put yourself at ease as well as put your interviewer at ease. It’s always easier to conduct an interview in a friendly environment!

9. Be professional and confident

Show respect for your employer by being professional at all times: dressing up nicely, speaking properly and confidently – this will make an impact on your employer. The way you dress up reflects how seriously you take the job opportunity and how much of yourself you are willing to invest in it. 

10. Do your research

The first step to success is research. You need to be prepared for the job interview so that you can impress the interviewer or the recruiter with your knowledge of the company and its competitors. If you’re not sure about something, make sure that you ask questions, which will show that you are interested in the position.

11. Prioritize face-to-face meetings

A telephone conversation or an email exchange can be helpful when you are looking for a job, but it is not enough to ensure that you get the perfect job in UAE. Face-to-face meetings will allow the employer to observe your body language and mannerisms, which is important if you are looking for a sales position. The employer will also appreciate your time and effort.

12. Dress appropriately

Dressing up appropriately is extremely important when it comes to making a good impression on an interviewer. This means that men should wear formal attire, while women should wear business suits or dresses with heels and minimal makeup and jewellery. It would be best if you were groomed well so that your appearance is professional. Make sure that you have a fresh breath, too, as this is one of the things that most employers notice in an interviewee.

13. Dress makes the difference

You need to dress in a way that shows you respect the company and the interviewer. If you are unsure about what is appropriate, then ask your recruiter or look at photos of the company on their website (if they have one). For example, if you are interviewing at a tech start-up, you can be more casual than interviewing at a corporate banking firm.

14. Be punctual

Be sure to arrive early, as this will give you time to compose yourself and relax before going into the interview. In Dubai, for example, it is not uncommon for traffic to be congested which may mean that it takes longer than expected for you to get there. After all, nobody wants to be late for an important meeting!

It is essential that you feel confident during your interview and exudes confidence so that everyone knows that you have what it takes and deserve the job! Practice in front of a mirror or with someone who can give you some pointers on how to come across well during interviews.

15. Speak positively about previous employers and colleagues.

Never speak negatively about previous employers, managers or colleagues. Avoid saying things like “My boss was a jerk” or “I hated my last job,” even if it’s true. The hiring manager may wonder how you’ll speak about their company if they hire you, but you leave later down the road.

16. Ask questions that show your knowledge of the company.

Asking questions is a simple way to show that you’re truly interested in the position and did your research before the interview! This can be tricky sometimes as most information is available online, so instead of asking basic questions that anyone with an internet connection could figure out, prepare more specific questions before your interview.

Showing up late to a job interview can be a fatal mistake and one that’s easily avoided. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your meeting. It doesn’t matter how prepared you are if you’re not on time.

17. Be polite to everyone you meet

Even though your interviewer is the person who will ultimately decide if you get the job, everyone in the office has their own impressions of you. From the receptionist to the manager, be friendly and professional with everyone you encounter.

18. Speak clearly, and make eye contact with your interviewer

Avoid speaking too fast or too slow. Instead, aim for a relaxed pace that feels natural to you and easy for your interviewer to understand. Also, don’t forget to make eye contact with your interviewer during the conversation – it shows confidence!

19. Greet everyone you meet with a smile and a handshake

When you arrive at the company office, greet everyone you meet with a smile, eye contact and a firm handshake. Be polite to everyone, even those who work for the cleaning service or do deliveries. Everyone could be an important business contact in some way or another.

20. Make eye contact with your interviewer

Throughout the interview, make sure that your responses are clear and concise so that your interviewer understands everything you are saying. Also ensure that your body language is friendly throughout the interview process. Give your interviewer a firm handshake at the end of your interview and thank him or her for taking the time to meet with you.