Cracking the job interview code
- Marcia Moyana
[Q&A] In our competitive job market, recruiters require job seekers to have multiple skills to even secure an interview.
Marcia Moyana quizzes Wits Career Services team leader Lindelwe Cili and Graduate Recruitment Officer, Bongi Ndlovu from the Counselling and Careers Development Unit (CCDU) about what it takes to be successful in the modern-day job hunt.
Living in a digital age has reduced opportunities for human interactions. What can young people do to build their social skills when preparing for job interviews?
Lindelwe: In today’s digital world, where face-to-face interactions are often reduced, strong social skills are more essential than ever for job interviews and professional networking. At CCDU Career Services, we emphasise the importance of actively developing these skills, as they can truly set candidates apart, even if much of the job search and initial contact happens online. We encourage students to be strategic in engaging in activities such as the work readiness initiatives to gain more experience and skills. We also offer a programme called the Journey to Employability and Economic Participation (JEEP), which prepares students for the job market through targeted workshops and presentations. These interactive sessions cover topics ranging from communication skills and workplace etiquette to crafting an effective CV, preparing for interviews, and networking.
It’s said that it’s not what you know but who you know that matters. Is this accurate and what do you advise regarding networking?
Bongi: While qualifications and skills are essential, a professional network offers job seekers access to hidden opportunities, which may not even be advertised. Networking allows job seekers to gain insights into industry standards and company culture, which is valuable when preparing for interviews. As a result, engaging in strategic networking – attending industry events (the Wits Graduate Recruitment Programme hosts a series to enable this), connecting on LinkedIn, and conducting informational interviews – is widely considered best practice for job seekers. Additionally, Wits alumni are represented across industries locally and globally, so networking through alumni events, guest lectures, and mentorship programmes can open doors to job opportunities.
Does the university or high school that you attended improve your chances of getting hired?
Lindelwe: The institution one attends can certainly influence initial job prospects, as some employers may associate certain institutions with strong academic performance and rigorous training. However, employers prioritise candidates who display practical skills, adaptability, and a proactive approach to career development. A well-rounded profile, including the right qualifications, soft skills, leadership or extra-curricular experience, and relevant work experience, truly differentiates candidates. 雷速体育_雷速体育直播s can develop employable skills beyond the classroom by seeking out internships, volunteering, or participating in work readiness initiatives, such as the WorkReady GenZ online course. This self-paced course is designed to help students develop essential skills for the modern workplace, and awards students with a certificate of completion that they can share with employers to highlight their proactive approach in the job search process.
Is it still important to have a matric certificate even for jobs like bartending, cleaning, etc.??
Bongi: While jobs like bartending or cleaning may not strictly require a matric certificate, having one can still be beneficial. A matric certificate can provide young people with options beyond entry-level positions, as it signals the completion of basic education and readiness for future training. At Wits Career Services, we emphasise that a matric certificate is often a minimum requirement even for non-degree roles, as it showcases essential skills in literacy and numeracy and demonstrates the ability to complete a long-term commitment. For those seeking to advance into more skilled roles or pursue further education, having completed matric serves as an important step, potentially opening doors to vocational training options or programmes at institutions like Wits University.
When is the right time for young job seekers to negotiate a salary??
Lindelwe: The ideal time to negotiate a salary is once the employer has extended a formal job offer. This indicates that the employer is genuinely interested in hiring you, giving you the most leverage, as they've identified you as the right fit for the role. Before reaching this point, it’s essential for candidates to prepare by researching market-related salaries for similar positions to create realistic expectations in remuneration negotiations. During the negotiation, it's helpful to focus on the value you bring to the organisation. Highlight your unique skills, relevant experience, and potential contributions. By understanding industry standards and average salaries for comparable roles, you can build a strong case for a fair starting salary without having to disclose your previous salary history too early in the conversation.
Is sharing your payslip with a recruiter a good idea?
Bongi: We generally advise against sharing a payslip with a recruiter, as this practice can constrain future salary negotiations. Wits encourages students to maintain transparency about their salary expectations while protecting their right to privacy concerning prior earnings. We suggest preparing a well-researched salary expectation, based on the value one brings to the new position and market standards, which demonstrates professionalism and a clear understanding of industry norms without compromising personal privacy.
- Marcia Moyana is a freelance writer.
- This article first appeared in?Curiosity,?a research magazine produced by?Wits Communications?and the?Research Office.
- Read more in the 18th issue, themed #Work, which delves into the evolving nature of work, shaped by societal shifts, technological advances, and equity challenges.