Acing the Job Interview: Advice from Marta

Marta Paluszek-Dabkowska Studied Engineering Design and Applied Mechanics at DTU

Words That Win: Be Concise

When it comes to communication during interviews, Marta has a golden rule: be concise. Prepare specific examples of your achievements and experiences that align with the position's requirements. Marta advises, "present a clear depiction of your capabilities, demonstrating that you are the ideal solution they have been anticipating”.

Know Your Target: Research, Align, Impress!

Researching the company is like detective work, according to Marta. You must dive deep into their mission, vision, and core values to become part of the company. Show genuine interest by aligning your responses with their values - a subtle gesture that leaves a lasting impact.

Authenticity Matters: The Pitfalls of Misrepresenting Skills on LinkedIn

Maintaining honesty and authenticity on professional platforms like LinkedIn is essential, as it can greatly impact your job prospects during job interviews. Marta shares an eye-opening experience where she discovered a candidate had listed Spanish as a skill on their LinkedIn profile, despite being unable to speak the language. This incident serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of truthfulness and integrity when presenting your skills and qualifications on professional platforms. The job Marta was hiring for did not even require Spanish as a skill and she only asked about it to break the ice at the beginning of the interview, but the situation served the applicant unwell as Marta did not find the candidate truthful, hence not a suitable employee.

The Body Language: A Powerful Tool in Interviews

A successful job interview requires more than just verbal communication. Non-verbal cues such as a firm handshake, calm body language, and maintaining eye contact play a crucial role in making a positive impression on the interviewer. Non-verbal communication speaks louder than words, and Marta knows it all too well. "Maintain eye contact" she says, with a genuine look towards us. When it comes to non-verbal communication, Marta emphasizes the importance of a firm handshake, as a firm handshake portrays confidence and professionalism. It sets the tone for the rest of the interview and establishes a positive connection with the interviewer. A confident handshake can leave a lasting impression, signaling your readiness and enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Projecting Confidence and Composure

Maintaining a calm body language is key to projecting confidence and composure during an interview. Marta advises, "avoid fidgeting, and keep your body relaxed yet attentive. Show that you are engaged and present in the conversation." By adopting a calm and composed demeanor, you convey professionalism and create a comfortable environment for the interviewer.

The Subtle Art of Active Listening: Demonstrating Interest and Understanding

Active listening is an essential aspect of non-verbal communication. Marta highlights its importance, stating, "Listen attentively to the interviewer's questions and comments. Show genuine interest by nodding, providing appropriate verbal cues, and reflecting on their words before responding. This demonstrates your understanding and engagement in the conversation."

Harnessing Non-Verbal Communication for Success

Mastering non-verbal communication in job interviews requires conscious effort and practice. As the interview draws to a close, Marta insists on leaving a lasting impression with your final questions. It's like the climax of your performance and Marta says: "ask thoughtful questions about the company, the team, or the role itself. Demonstrate your genuine interest and communicate that you are not simply a job seeker, but rather approaching it with a curious mindset in search of an ideal opportunity.

Becoming an interview superstar requires meticulous preparation, effective communication, and a touch of Marta's secret sauce: genuine presence. Follow her helpful tips, conduct thorough research, align your responses with the company's values, showcase your communication skills and adaptability, and ask insightful questions. Armed with Marta's wisdom, you're ready to conquer the Danish job market, one interview at a time.