Recently, our founder, Ling Shih’s daughter, posed a simple question: “Mom, how many interviews have you done?” As she considered her career as a recruiter and the average number of interviews for every search, she was shocked to realize it was over 10,000! This number made Ling reflect on what she learned over the years and came up with a few lessons from her 10,000 interviews: 

1. Build Meaningful Connections: The most memorable candidates are those who seek genuine connections. They follow up with a warm, well-crafted email that not only communicates their goals but also shares a piece of their life journey. It’s about more than just statements and asks; it’s about fostering relationships.
2. Passion Ignites Excitement: People who radiate a sincere interest or passion for their field have a superpower – they light up the room! Their love for life and their work is contagious, and it’s a quality that’s impossible to overlook.
3. Unveil Your “Why”: LinkedIn profiles and CVs may offer a timeline, but it’s your “why” that colours in the details. Sharing why you made career moves, why you chose a job over others and why certain areas of experience intrigued you, is important and demonstrates thoughtfulness. This adds depth and purpose to your journey. 
4. Show, Don’t Just Tell: Whenever possible, support your character traits with real-life examples. Paint a picture of how you embody these qualities in your day-to-day work. It helps interviewers visualize your potential contributions.
5. Small Talk Matters: Never underestimate the power of small talk, body language, and eye contact. While skills and experience are vital, employers also want to know they’ll enjoy working alongside you. So, let your personality shine through.
6. Masterful Communication: Interviews are about more than just answers; they’re about communication. Articulation, structure, thoughtfulness, and brevity matter. Interviewers assess your ability to convey ideas effectively, so be concise and impactful. Remember, a concise answer is often more powerful than a lengthy one.

Interviews aren’t just about the content of your responses but the connection you forge, the passion you convey, and your ability to engage effectively.