DO

Research the company you are interviewing for. For example, learn about the nature of its business by checking its website. Then learn who its competitors are. You should also be asking yourself: 'What makes me choose this company?' or 'What makes this company my employer of choice?'

DO

Be clear about the job you are being interviewed for. Prepare yourself by getting a sense of the skills and behavioural characteristics the employer is seeking by reading and understanding the job advertisement and position requirements carefully.

DO

Know your strengths and weaknesses. Candidates need to better understand how they can contribute to a company, and how they can translate their strengths into skills that a prospective employer could use.

DON'T

Over-market yourself. It is not easy, but candidates need to find a balance between being humble and 'selling' their skills, knowledge and experience.

DON'T

Ask about compensation during the first meeting. It is more appropriate to determine the 'job fit' first, and discuss compensation later. Candidates should project that they are concerned about doing a good job, rather than just trying to earn a pay cheque.

DON'T

Be arrogant or rude towards the receptionist or secretary of the interviewer. You never know if they will offer their opinion of candidates to the interviewer. Always treat everyone with professionalism and courtesy.

This article was first published in The Straits Times.