As the new year arrives, we all anticipate a fresh start. Many are considering changing careers or expanding their business horizons. Today, I’d like to share some interview tips from my own experience.
Craftsmanship lies in detail and focus. Over the past few years, our firm has gradually expanded, and I’ve interviewed many excellent candidates. After sifting through countless resumes, getting to the second round of interviews is no small feat. So, what preparations can one make to win over the interviewers?
While there are many tips online about interview preparation, I’ve encountered some amusing situations during interviews that were a bit surprising. There have been instances where candidates, despite having seemingly perfect resumes, appeared entirely different in person.
I once interviewed a lawyer who had an impressive background, but he committed the cardinal sin of interviews—arriving late. Although I still gave him a chance to interview, I sensed a lack of punctuality and enthusiasm during our conversation. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t hired.
Another common issue is attire. Most candidates dress appropriately in simple shirts or suits, but I recommend wearing wrinkle-free shirts if possible. First impressions matter, and I’ve seen candidates arrive in shirts that looked like they had been pulled from the bottom of a drawer or in ill-fitting suits, giving off an unkempt appearance.
Confidence in responses and preparation about the company are also crucial. Connecting your answers to the company’s main business activities demonstrates that hiring you would benefit the company. If faced with a question you can’t fully answer, it’s helpful to follow up with a thank-you email and elaborate on your thoughts.
Lastly, I often find myself in situations where talented candidates confirm their start dates, but then they ghost us without further communication. This creates challenges in our staffing arrangements. It’s essential to communicate your employment intentions, whether you decide to accept the offer or not; it greatly assists the company's HR planning.
As for attire, I’d like to share my personal favorite bespoke suit brand—Leader Tailor. I don’t often shop for clothes, so my wardrobe primarily consists of the same brand and color schemes. The last time I had a suit custom-made was quite some time ago, but I’ve been eager to visit this well-known tailor in Taipei, Leader Tailor, which has been in business for 55 years.
I appreciate the classic tailoring of the experienced craftsmen there. Just like my favorite restaurants, I prefer establishments that have mastered their craft over many years. I believe that a prolonged focus on a single endeavor results in a distinctive style, be it food, clothing, or any item.
Finally, I found the time before the new year to have a suit made for myself and my wife. Fortunately, the founder, James, crafted my custom suit. From the initial communication to the fitting and fabric selection, I could feel James’s expertise. Despite having been in the industry for over 50 years, he remains attuned to current fashion trends. His dedication to quality craftsmanship and superior fabrics is evident, allowing Li Te Suit to thrive in today’s fast fashion world.
For my suit, I chose a midnight blue wool fabric with two distinctive features:
1. 3D Weave:This special weaving technique enhances breathability, making it suitable for Taiwan’s weather year-round.
2. Midnight Blue:This color is nearly black but less formal and serious, making it versatile for any occasion.
You can see in the photos how well the suit’s tailoring flatters my figure, especially after indulging in good food lately! My wife’s blazer also impresses with a professional yet feminine touch, reminiscent of a female anchor. Clearly, the expertise shines through!
Craftsmanship lies in detail and focus. Over the past few years, our firm has gradually expanded, and I’ve interviewed many excellent candidates. After sifting through countless resumes, getting to the second round of interviews is no small feat. So, what preparations can one make to win over the interviewers?
While there are many tips online about interview preparation, I’ve encountered some amusing situations during interviews that were a bit surprising. There have been instances where candidates, despite having seemingly perfect resumes, appeared entirely different in person.
I once interviewed a lawyer who had an impressive background, but he committed the cardinal sin of interviews—arriving late. Although I still gave him a chance to interview, I sensed a lack of punctuality and enthusiasm during our conversation. Unsurprisingly, he wasn’t hired.
Another common issue is attire. Most candidates dress appropriately in simple shirts or suits, but I recommend wearing wrinkle-free shirts if possible. First impressions matter, and I’ve seen candidates arrive in shirts that looked like they had been pulled from the bottom of a drawer or in ill-fitting suits, giving off an unkempt appearance.
Confidence in responses and preparation about the company are also crucial. Connecting your answers to the company’s main business activities demonstrates that hiring you would benefit the company. If faced with a question you can’t fully answer, it’s helpful to follow up with a thank-you email and elaborate on your thoughts.
Lastly, I often find myself in situations where talented candidates confirm their start dates, but then they ghost us without further communication. This creates challenges in our staffing arrangements. It’s essential to communicate your employment intentions, whether you decide to accept the offer or not; it greatly assists the company's HR planning.
As for attire, I’d like to share my personal favorite bespoke suit brand—Leader Tailor. I don’t often shop for clothes, so my wardrobe primarily consists of the same brand and color schemes. The last time I had a suit custom-made was quite some time ago, but I’ve been eager to visit this well-known tailor in Taipei, Leader Tailor, which has been in business for 55 years.
I appreciate the classic tailoring of the experienced craftsmen there. Just like my favorite restaurants, I prefer establishments that have mastered their craft over many years. I believe that a prolonged focus on a single endeavor results in a distinctive style, be it food, clothing, or any item.
Finally, I found the time before the new year to have a suit made for myself and my wife. Fortunately, the founder, James, crafted my custom suit. From the initial communication to the fitting and fabric selection, I could feel James’s expertise. Despite having been in the industry for over 50 years, he remains attuned to current fashion trends. His dedication to quality craftsmanship and superior fabrics is evident, allowing Li Te Suit to thrive in today’s fast fashion world.
For my suit, I chose a midnight blue wool fabric with two distinctive features:
1. 3D Weave:This special weaving technique enhances breathability, making it suitable for Taiwan’s weather year-round.
2. Midnight Blue:This color is nearly black but less formal and serious, making it versatile for any occasion.
You can see in the photos how well the suit’s tailoring flatters my figure, especially after indulging in good food lately! My wife’s blazer also impresses with a professional yet feminine touch, reminiscent of a female anchor. Clearly, the expertise shines through!