TCM MODULE 2 - ISSUES AND CHALLENGES IN GRADUATE EMPLOYABILITY: DEXCOM

Summary

In this video, William, a UTM graduate and hiring manager, shares valuable insights on how to approach job interviews, focusing on the common question, 'Tell me about yourself.' He emphasizes the importance of presenting what value you bring to the company, rather than sharing personal stories. William advises students to be authentic and professional, highlighting how to make a strong first impression. The video aims to help graduates understand the mindset of hiring managers and prepare for successful interviews that showcase their skills and potential contributions to a company.

Takeaways

• 😀 The interview is a critical challenge for graduates looking to enter the workforce, and first impressions are crucial.
• 😀 When asked, 'Tell me about yourself,' the hiring manager is not looking for your life story, but rather your potential value to the company.
• 😀 Focus on what you can bring to the table and the problems you can solve for the company when answering interview questions.
• 😀 Always aim to be your best, genuine self during an interview, and avoid being fake.
• 😀 It's important to dress appropriately to show respect for the occasion and for the hiring manager.
• 😀 The interview is similar to a first date—both parties are getting to know each other, so keep it professional but authentic.
• 😀 The 'Tell me about yourself' question is an opportunity to make a strong impression and should be answered with a focus on how you can contribute.
• 😀 Interviewees should tie every statement back to the value they can offer the company.
• 😀 Graduates should be prepared to share their strengths and potential, aligning them with the company’s needs during the interview.
• 😀 Proper preparation and a positive, confident attitude can help you make a lasting impression during the interview process.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the speech?

The main topic of the speech is about interviews, specifically focusing on how to effectively answer the common interview question, 'Tell me about yourself.'

Why is the 'Tell me about yourself' question challenging for many candidates?

Many candidates struggle with this question because they are unsure about what specific information to share. They often end up giving a long, irrelevant story instead of focusing on what the hiring manager is truly interested in—what value the candidate can bring to the company.

What is the hiring manager actually looking for when asking 'Tell me about yourself'?

The hiring manager is looking for information about the candidate's skills, value, and potential contributions to the company. They want to understand what problems the candidate can solve and what benefits they can bring to the organization.

How should candidates approach the question 'Tell me about yourself' in an interview?

Candidates should focus on presenting themselves in a way that highlights their value to the company. Instead of telling their life story, they should emphasize their skills, experience, and how they can contribute to solving the company’s problems.

What does it mean to 'be yourself' in an interview?

Being yourself means presenting your true, authentic self while maintaining professionalism. Candidates should aim to be genuine but avoid oversharing personal details that are not relevant to the interview.

What is the importance of dressing appropriately for an interview?

Dressing appropriately is important because it shows respect for the interview process. It also helps create a positive impression, demonstrating that the candidate takes the opportunity seriously.

Why is it important to make a good first impression during an interview?

A good first impression is crucial because many hiring managers form their opinion about a candidate within the first few minutes of the interview. Making a strong, positive impression can increase a candidate’s chances of being considered for the position.

What should candidates avoid when answering the 'Tell me about yourself' question?

Candidates should avoid talking about irrelevant personal details, such as their family, pets, or hobbies, unless they directly relate to the role. The focus should always be on what the candidate can bring to the table.

How can candidates tie their answers back to the company's needs?

Candidates should always relate their responses to the company's goals and needs. For example, they should highlight how their skills and experiences can solve specific challenges the company might be facing or how they can add value to the team.

What is the speaker’s final message to the graduates of UTM?

The speaker wishes all the graduates the best of luck in their future endeavors, encouraging them to make the most of the opportunities ahead and to strive for success in the corporate world.