HSK 3-5 - What to Prepare Before a Job Interview. 聊聊“面试准备” - Chinese Daily Podcast

Hello everyone, welcome to the new episode of "Chinese Every Day." I am Wang Yu. Hello everyone, I'm Li Ming. Wang Yu, you look especially happy today, Anything happy happening? Is that so? Maybe it's because I had an exceptionally delicious coffee this morning. I feel energized all day long. Li Ming, how about you? How have you been recently? I'm still the same as always, doing well. Seeing you so energetic, I feel infected by your spirit. I also hope every friend listening to our program right now, No matter whether it's morning, afternoon, or evening, you'll have a good mood. Yes, "Everyday Chinese" is a podcast designed for Chinese language learners. We hope to achieve轻松, natural conversation, Help everyone improve their Chinese listening skills in real-life environments. Learn more about interesting topics. Yes, the topics we discuss are diverse and wide-ranging. From daily life to cultural phenomena, I hope you feel as if you're chatting with two Chinese friends. Speaking of this, I'd also like to say a few words to our new friends here, Our conversation will be slightly slower than normal speaking pace. But there might still be some words you don't understand. Don't worry, this is completely normal. You can try to guess the meaning from the context, or listen several times. If you really want to understand it thoroughly, you can check out our podcast. See the complete text; the link is in the description below. Learning a language is a gradual process; don't rush it. You're right. Actually, I recently had a friend who... He has just graduated and is currently looking for jobs everywhere. I'm preparing for interviews every single day. I feel he's under tremendous pressure; he's extremely anxious. Oh, I completely understand this feeling. I remember the first time I attended a formal interview, I was so nervous that I didn't sleep well the night before. I keep thinking about what questions the interviewer might ask. What should I say? What should I wear? There are countless things to prepare. Exactly correct, so we feel this is very practical, And it's a topic that many people go through. So today, let's talk about it, What should we actually prepare before a job interview? This topic is great; I hope it helps those who are currently looking for jobs, Or some help for friends who may need to find jobs in the future. Alright, where should we start? I think before starting to research the company and preparing questions, Some basic hardware needs to be prepared first. For me, the most important hardware is a perfect resume. Oh, a perfect resume—this requirement is a bit high, isn't it? How do you define perfection? The word "perfect" might be a bit exaggerated. My meaning is a professional, clear, A flawless resume. Think about it—your resume is the first impression the interviewer has of you. If there are any typos or the formatting is messy above, The first impression score will definitely take a serious hit. Therefore, I recommend that everyone carefully review their resume before submitting it, You must check it yourself at least three times. You'd better ask a friend to check it over once more. I fully agree; success lies in the details. A clean and tidy resume It truly reflects a person's serious attitude. But for me, besides the resume as hardware, There is one more important thing, That's the mindset. Mindset? Please elaborate. Well, I think a job interview is not just an examination. It's more like an equal exchange. When preparing for an interview, we must first build confidence. You must believe that the reason you've been given the interview opportunity is because This indicates that your abilities and energy have already received preliminary recognition. So don't put yourself in a low position. You feel like you're the one being scrutinized. This viewpoint is quite interesting. So what you're saying is, we should approach it with an attitude of communication, Instead of facing the interview with a mindset of being tested? That's right. You see, the company is looking for the right person, You're also looking for a suitable platform, This is a two-way selection process. With this mindset, you'll feel much more relaxed overall. Expressions will also become more natural and confident. Confidence is your best outfit during an interview. Confidence is the best outfit—this metaphor is very vivid. But when it comes to clothing, attire for job interviews, That is one of the hardware components we refer to, and it is also very important. I am a rather traditional person. I think no matter what kind of interview, Wearing a suit is always the safest choice. Men wear suits, women wear business suits. This shows your respect for this opportunity. On this point, I might have a slightly different perspective. I admit, regarding banks, finance, and law These more traditional industries, Wearing formal attire is mandatory. But now there are many internet companies, startup companies, Their culture itself is very relaxed and lively. If you go to a job interview wearing a very formal suit, It might be at odds with the company's atmosphere. It反而 makes the interviewer think you're not one of them. Makes sense. What's your suggestion? My suggestion is, before the interview, Take some time to research the company's corporate culture. You can check out their company's website. Take a look at the photos from the staff activities. Take a look at their fashion style. Then choose a set that not only suits your personality but also reflects your individual style. Clothing that conforms to the company's culture. Simply put, it means obtaining iron and meeting the requirements. That's a good summary, so the first step of preparation is to, Physically prepare a professional resume and suitable attire. You must psychologically adjust your mindset and build self-confidence. This is the foundation of success. Absolutely correct, the foundation is solidly established. That way, we can proceed to prepare the subsequent content. Alright, once the foundation is solidified, It entered the most critical preparation phase: research information. The Art of War says, "Know yourself and know your enemy, and you can fight a hundred battles without disaster." The interview is the same—you not only need to understand yourself, You must also thoroughly understand the company and position you are going to interview for. Knowing oneself and knowing the enemy—this idiom fits perfectly here. What exactly do you need to understand? The scope is too broad; sometimes it feels overwhelming and impossible to know where to start. Don't rush; we can systematize it. I'm accustomed to dividing it into three levels. The first level concerns the company's macro information, For example, the history of this company, What are its main businesses and products? What is its corporate culture and values? Where is it located in the bank? Any important news recently? This information is usually available on the company's official website. It can be found in news reports. What is the point of understanding these macro-level pieces of information? Will the interviewer ask these directly? They might not ask directly. What is the history of our company? But this information will help you understand the company. And ensure that you, when answering questions, Be able to align your own answers with the company's development direction, Connect with values. For example, when the interviewer asks you, Why do you want to join our company? If you could express that you认同 one of their values, Or perhaps you're optimistic about the future of one of their new products, This will be better than simply saying, Because your company is a large corporation, it's much better. I see. This will make your answer appear more profound. It also shows that you truly put in effort to prepare. What about the second level? The second level involves the micro-level information regarding the position you have applied for. You must read the job description word by word and sentence by sentence. Analyze each requirement inside it. Then reflect on which experience from your past, Which item, which skill, You can prove that you meet this requirement. You must provide a justification for every sentence on your resume, Prepare a specific story to support it. Wow, the workload sounds huge. Prepare a story for every sentence? Yes. Because the interviewer might point to a sentence on your resume and ask about it. Could you please elaborate on this project? If you couldn't answer at that time, Or rather, vaguely and unclearly, That would make the other party doubt the authenticity of your resume. Prepare the story in advance, That is how you can confidently showcase your abilities during a job interview. This is indeed a very important reminder. Perfectly align your own experiences with the job requirements. What is the third level? The third level concerns information about people. If possible, Could you please let me know who your interviewer is? There are now many professional social websites, For example, Lingyin. You can take a look at the interviewer's background. Understand his area of expertise, How long has he worked at the company? This can help you find some common topics, Or make your responses more targeted when answering questions. Of course, this is just icing on the cake, not essential. I fully agree with your systematic approach. However, I would like to add one point, From my perspective, In addition to gathering these objective facts, We should also try to feel the company's personality. The company's personality? That statement is quite fresh. Well, by looking at their products, Advertising, statements on social media Feel how serious this company is. Still lively, Innovative or conservative? Having understood his personality, You will be able to better adjust your communication style, Establish a more harmonious connection with the examiner. You're not reciting data, but rather engaging in dialogue with a living, breathing organization. Well said, Rational analysis combined with emotional understanding, Such preparation can be considered comprehensive. One could say, The information research phase It is the core of the entire interview preparation process. Alright, The research work is finished. Our minds are already full. Information regarding the company and position Now we need to process this information Combined with my own experiences, It has become content for use in job interviews. The first thing to face here is, It's just an introduction. That's right. Almost every interview begins with Please begin your one-minute self-introduction. This is the first question. It's also how you leave an impression on the interviewer. The Golden Opportunity of the First Mirror. Regarding self-introduction, I suggest, You must prepare the script in advance. and practice repeatedly, Until you can say it fluently. I agree with writing the draft. But repeated practice, I'm a bit worried. Does it sound like I'm reciting from a textbook? Looks especially unnatural. That's a good question. What I mean is, The purpose of practice is not to memorize, but rather to internalize it. When you have fully absorbed the content, After it becomes your own thing, When you say it aloud then it can be very natural, while also ensuring logical clarity, Emphasize the key points. A good self-introduction, It should be like a thrilling movie trailer. In the shortest amount of time, Show off your strengths. And piqued the interviewer's interest. This metaphor about movie trailers is simply fantastic. In this trailer here What should it include? I usually recommend a three-part structure. First paragraph, who are you? Briefly introduce your name and background. In the second paragraph, what have you done? And what achievements were attained. This is the core section. In conjunction with the position you have applied for, Select one or two that are most relevant, When it comes to the most impressive experience. Note, do not merely describe the job responsibilities. Use specific numbers Show off your achievements. Third paragraph, Why are you suitable for this position? Your abilities, Your passion Relate this position's requirements Tell them, What value can you bring to the company? This structure is very clear. Very operational. I particularly agree with what you said. Speak with numbers. For example, do not say, I increased the sales revenue. rather, it is to say, By what method do I Increased sales by 20%. This is more persuasive. That's exactly it. Having finished the self-introduction, We must prepare to respond. All kinds of problems. Some problems are almost Something that comes up in every interview. Yes, for example, What is your greatest strength? Why did you leave your previous company? And the one question I'm most afraid of is, What is your greatest weakness? Think, This issue is indeed a nightmare for many people. I remember when I had just graduated I'm also especially afraid of being asked about this. To be honest, I'm afraid they'll think I really can't do the job. Tell a harmless, irrelevant lie, For example, My greatest weakness is that I am overly obsessed with perfection. And it also seems particularly insincere. Li Ming, Do you have any good suggestions? This is a typical professional issue. What the interviewer wants to see is not your flaw itself, but rather your ability for self-awareness, Your honesty, and your attitude toward problems. This is undoubtedly a question that examines comprehensive qualities. My suggestion is, First, You must be honest. You can say a real existence. But it won't affect your application for this position. A flaw that has a fatal impact. Second, And also the most crucial point. That is precisely what needs to be explained. You have already become aware of this issue, And actively taking action to improve it. Can you give an example? Of course, For example, a recent college graduate could say it like this: I used to feel a bit nervous when speaking in public. The logic might be a bit messy. To improve on this point, I voluntarily joined the school's debate club. And deliberately practice speaking more often in group discussions. I'm still a bit nervous now, though. But it's already much better than before. I can express my opinions clearly now. I see. This response first acknowledges a shortcoming. Then demonstrated your proactive actions for improvement and the already achieved results, This turns a negative issue into Has become a demonstration of your ambition and opportunities to develop problem-solving skills, So smart! Yes. Interview preparation is, to some extent, like playing chess. You must anticipate every possible move your opponent might make in advance. Be prepared with your own response strategy. Besides these common issues, We must also prepare several more We would like to ask the interviewer some questions. Yes This segment is also very important. At the end of the interview, Interviewers usually ask, Do you have any questions you'd like to ask us? If you say there's no problem, That might make the other person feel What do you think of this position or company? Not that interested. That's right. The question is how you demonstrate your commitment to the company. The last chance for profound reflection, But don't ask those that can be found through simple searches. A question that can easily find the answer For example, what business does the company engage in? This will make you appear unprepared. What kind of questions should I ask? You can ask some questions about the team, Regarding career development, Regarding corporate culture issues, For example, What is the team's biggest challenge at present? Or, If I could join the team, You wish me to within the first three months What kind of goal are you aiming to achieve? These issues It will not only help you better understand future jobs, It also reflects your depth of thinking and initiative. I like these questions. They can initiate a deeper conversation. not just a simple question-and-answer format, The feeling of going through the entire interview preparation process It's about continuously gaining deeper understanding of oneself, It also involves a deep understanding of the other party. Alright, All is ready except the east wind. We have finally reached the interview day. Even if you are as well-prepared as possible, Some small seasonal details on the interview day It may also affect the final outcome. Yes. For example, time management. My principle is, Whether online or offline, You must arrive early. If it's offline, I usually arrive 15 to 20 minutes in advance. Arriving near the interview location, Get familiar with the environment. Calm down a bit, About five minutes before the scheduled time Enter the company. This habit is excellent. Too early It may cause inconvenience to the other party. Being late is even more of a A fatal mistake. For online video interviews, You must also log in at least 15 minutes in advance. Check the network. camera microphone Ensure that all equipment is operating properly. as well as their attire and demeanor, Even in video interviews, You should also wear appropriate clothing. Fix your hairstyle. Adjust yourself to your best state. Before my interview Smile at yourself in the mirror. Tell yourself You can do it. This positive psychological suggestion It's really useful. I can too. Moreover, Some aspects of the interview process Non-verbal information That is, body language. It is also very important. Maintain natural eye contact with the examiner. Maintain an upright posture. The body can lean slightly forward. Show that you are very interested in the conversation. A proper smile and nod can also create an atmosphere of Excellent atmosphere for communication. Hmm, These little details It can convey your confidence and respect. After the interview ended Is it then all going to be fine? Going home to wait for further notice? It's not over yet, There is one more important step, That is to send a thank-you letter. I suggest Within 24 hours after the interview Send an email to the interviewer. What's the point of sending a thank-you letter? First of all, This is a fundamental workplace etiquette. It reflects your professional competence. Secondly, This also serves as a further emphasis The opportunity for you to show interest in this position. You can include it in the letter Thank you again for giving you the interview opportunity. Let me briefly restate it. Your understanding of the position and your level of suitability You can even add a supplement. When you're in a job interview A certain point that couldn't be mentioned in time. I see. This letter of gratitude As if you were in the interviewer's mind The last one left It's also a very good impression. A small gesture May make you stand out among many other candidates Stand out prominently. Yes. After completing this step, The entire interview process It was only then that a true full stop was finally put. It's just about adjusting your mindset properly. Keep moving forward, Regardless of the outcome. You said it so well, From mindset to action, From information research to content preparation, and then on the interview day and after the interview, We're going to go through the entire process today. I have gone through it all again. I hope these sharing are helpful to everyone. Today we talked a lot. It also makes use of Several very interesting idioms, To help everyone Better understanding and memory Let's review it together. Wang Yu, Come on, explain it to everyone in simple terms Explain it, please. No problem. Leave it to me. Alright, The first one is As mentioned in the second part Know yourself and know your enemy. Know yourself and know your enemy, This term comes from a book. A very old book, A book about war. Its meaning is that, You must deeply understand yourself, Know your strengths and weaknesses. At the same time, You must also thoroughly understand your opponent. Or rather, the situation you are facing. In the interview, A true friend is someone who truly understands you. One's own abilities and energy Knowing the enemy means understanding them Company and position. Only like this, Only then can you succeed. It is explained very clearly. Okay, The second word, Stand out prominently. Stand out prominently;脱颖而出 This term is very vivid. Ying originally refers to The sharp tip of a cone. To stand out prominently means that This sharp tip It was sticking out from the bag. Now we use it as a metaphor A person's talent or performance Among a group of people Completely revealed Become very prominent You can immediately catch other people's attention. For example, among a group of job applicants, Your outstanding performance Set you apart. Very good, The last one, A touch of elegance to an already beautiful scene. Adding flowers to brocade It's also very vivid. Brocade is a very beautiful fabric. Expensive silk fabric, Embroider beautiful flowers upon an already exquisite brocade. What it means is Let something that was already good become even better Become even better. For example, we say, Your resume is already great. If you attach another one as well An impressive portfolio, That would be adding the final touch to an already perfect picture. It emphasizes Make the good things even better. Great! Thank you for Wang Yu's excellent explanation, I hope everyone can remember These few idioms, And at the appropriate occasions Use them. You're welcome. Alright, Today's topic about interview preparation, We've about come to the end of our conversation here. Time flies. Yes, indeed. I hope our discussion today Can help everyone Prepare for the interview This complex process Become clearer More systematically. Today, we will discuss four aspects. Shared our perspectives. First, It is about mental and attitudinal preparation. A professional one Resume and a confident mindset. Second, It is sufficient information research, Know yourself and know your enemy. Third, It is the preparation of the core content. Including self-introduction and answers to frequently asked questions. Finally, It's the day of the interview And the details after the written exam. The summary is truly comprehensive. If you want to review today Everything we have discussed Or check out some Textual explanations of key vocabulary, Welcome to our blog, The blog address can be found at Found in the description below the program. There you can find The complete transcript of each episode. If today's content It is helpful to you. We hope you can give us a like, Share And subscribe to our channel Everyday Chinese. Your support It's us continuing to create. Maximum power, This is really important to us. Finally, I also want to interact with everyone. I'd like to ask everyone, When you're in a job interview The most memorable experience I've ever had or the most difficult problem What is it? How did you answer? Welcome to the comment section below Leave us a message, Share your story and experiences. We are looking forward to it very much. Seeing everyone's sharing. Alright, So today we'll end here. Thank you all for listening, See you next time. Goodbye.