DEH Student Workshop: Interview Skills
On April 4, 2024, the Department of English and Humanities (DEH) at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) organized a workshop titled, “Interview Skills.” The workshop was designed for the students enrolled in ENG 498, ENG 499, and ENG 413 as well as the MA students to be prepared for any type of interview, either for jobs or higher studies. The workshop was facilitated by Ms. Nadia Rahman, Assistant Professor, Department of English and Humanities.
Ms. Rahman started the session by giving a few important pointers about the interview scenario. She mentioned that interviewees should introduce themselves in such a way that the interviewer can ask them further questions. By doing this, communication is built and the interviewer will also be interested in the works of the interviewee.
Ms. Rahman then moved on to a short question/answer session where she asked the students what they wanted to do in their future, with the majority of students choosing work or higher studies. According to Ms. Rahman, one of the important aspects of anyone wanting to go for an interview is that they should first realize what kind of interview they are appearing for.
The next major part focused on preparing for the interview. Ms. Rahman mentioned that interviewees must always understand their job description, where they are applying, and the philosophy of the institution. By analyzing these aspects, interviewees can create the answers according to the position or organization they are applying to. Furthermore, interviewees must also decide on their strengths, skill areas, and experiences, and with it, compile relevant documents for the interview.
The next part that Ms. Rahman talked about is interviews in the case of cultural exchange programs. A student going to attend one of these programs should be familiar with the history and culture of the other country as well as their own, be willing to participate in the programs they will attend, and be comfortable with the campus life of a different institution. Also, in the case of financial aid, interviewees must portray that they are willing to work in return for the benefits they will receive.
Ms. Rahman then moved on to the next part where she mentioned that it is important to be punctual for an interview. Interviewees must also show confidence through their body language and must speak at a slower pace so that the interviewer understands them. She also gave a very important reminder about connecting the interviewees’ past experiences with the current job application to generate an interesting aspect to the conversation. She, however, discouraged students from talking for more than one to two minutes per question.
Lastly, she pointed out how to deal with unfamiliar questions. The correct way to do this is to analyze the questions, break them down into simpler parts, and answer them one by one while also justifying any answer being given.
Ms. Rahman, ended the session with important tips, such as being proficient in Bangla and English so that the interviewee can answer in any language, and being confident and mindful of body language. She also mentioned what to do in case of video interviews; to understand the company policy on video interviews; and to do everything accordingly.
Report by Khondoker Noor Mohammad (202013030)
