Excerpted from the South Africa Career Guide

Pre-Interview Preparation

See this guide’s Resume/CV Guidelines section for information regarding the recommended content and format of resumes and cover letters in South Africa.

South African recruiters expect potential employees to come to an interview well informed about the company. The candidate is expected to research the company, its products or services, and its main clients. The interviewer may ask the candidate what he or she knows about the company, why he or she would want to work for the company, or for novel methods of finding solutions to company problems. Thorough research may further benefit the candidate in helping to determine if he or she is a good fit with the company.

Interview Conduct

South African interviews are much like they are in the United Kingdom. Recruiters in the two countries expect similar conduct from interviewees and ask similar questions.

First impressions at a South African job interview are based on two things: punctuality and appearance. The former is easy—just arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. It is recommended to confirm the venue and directions at least one day before the interview.

The Interview

An interview may consist of an individual or panel interview. It is important to research different methods, styles and questions. Sources may include the Internet, recruitment companies, job search sites, university websites, human resource sites and books.

The applicant’s attitude and demeanor are as important as his or her responses to interview questions. Listen to the questions and answer with confidence and clarity, remembering to maintain eye contact with the interviewer (or interviewers if it is a panel interview) while talking. Be brief, but thorough, and stay focused. Avoid appearing arrogant. It is acceptable to smile and show suitable enthusiasm.

This is just a short sample of what you’ll find in over 100 pages of information in the complete South Africa Guide.