GLOBAL CLASSROOM WITH LANCASTER UNIVERSITY: KEYS TO MASTERING JOB INTERVIEWS
Paya Besar, 9 May 2024 - "Preparation is the key to success in job interviews," emphasised Ms. Nur Sabrina Zafiran, a PhD candidate in Linguistics from Lancaster University, United Kingdom, during the Global Classroom session last month. This event held particular significance for the students enrolled in UHL2432 English for Professional Communication, who were scheduled to undergo mock job interview assessments the following week.
Ms. Sabrina's presentation was comprehensive, covering essential aspects of interview preparation. She emphasised the importance of thorough preparation, advising students on researching the company, understanding the job roles, and practicing common interview questions. Additionally, she addressed how to effectively discuss one's strengths and weaknesses, which is a critical question in most job interviews. By offering practical examples and strategies, the speaker ensured that the students felt more confident in articulating their personal attributes and areas for improvement.
One of the highlights of the session was the focus on language input. Ms. Sabrina stressed the significance of language and word choice in conveying professionalism and competence. She provided detailed guidance on how to use precise and impactful language to make a positive impression. This advice was particularly beneficial for the students, as strong communication skills are integral to their course and future professional endeavors.
Moreover, the interactive nature of the classroom allowed the students to engage with Ms. Sabrina directly, posing questions that addressed their specific concerns. For instance, students inquired about handling questions they were uncertain about and strategies for standing out in group interviews without disrupting the flow of discussion. Ms. Sabrina's responses were both insightful and practical, equipping students with techniques to navigate these challenging scenarios with poise.
Feedback from the students was overwhelmingly positive. Many reported that they found the session exceptionally beneficial and felt more prepared for their mock job interview assessment the following week. They appreciated the opportunity to gain additional knowledge from a distinguished speaker from Lancaster University. The strategies and tips shared by Ms. Sabrina not only boosted their confidence but also provided a clear framework for success. This event underscored the value of such educational collaborations and highlighted the critical role of effective communication in professional settings.
In conclusion, this Global Classroom session proved to be a resounding success. It not only equipped the students with the tools needed to excel in job interviews but also enhanced their overall communication skills. As a result, the students felt more prepared and confident for their upcoming assessments, demonstrating the profound impact of this collaborative learning experience. Beyond the immediate benefits of preparing them for their mock job interview assessments, this session also played a crucial role in equipping the students with the skills and self-confidence which is necessary for their future professional endeavors. By learning how to effectively communicate their strengths, articulate their thoughts with precision, and handle challenging interview scenarios, the students gained invaluable knowledge that will serve them well in their studies and for their long-term professional success.
Prepared by: Nur Anisnabila Dianah, Wan Noor Farah Wan Shamsuddin, and Siti Asma’ Yaacob
