As when seeking a job anywhere, when interviewing in Italy, keep the following hints in mind. Italian employers value personal reliability over professional skill. An Italian boss looks for motivated employees who are also self-confident.

The right way to interview is to first explain who you are. Go through the reason why you are seeking employment in Italy. So, are you an experienced assistant? Are you the best account in your company in UK? Maybe this is the truth, but to enlarge your chances of finding a job in Italy, present yourself honestly. You are an experienced secretary who needs a new job in Italy to follow up her husband who is moving to Italy for a new business opportunity. Or you are an experienced account in the UK, working for a telecommunication services package for operators applying 3g product, and you want to join your family after 12 years abroad.

Show your self confidence by explaining your personal needs. Being in touch with Italian people you must combine your skill, your professional capability and your personal goal. First of all, personal reasons for a move are mostly considered more “real” than the professional ones. Also, Italian employers know it is rare for someone to come to Italy solely for a business reason. And finally, showing honestly as to why you want to find a job in Italy shows that you are a reliable person.

This means that the starting point with the Italian employer is the personal one. It also means that personal characteristics are investigated in the selection meeting before the professional ones. There is always time to investigate your skill, but the fist impression is based on personal motivation.

Next, present your professional skills. As a newcomer to the country, bring an international approach to the position. Suggest ways to solve problems based on your experiences in other countries. Adding a different point of view can add value to the business. Foreign people are always considered attractive in Italy. But most importantly, for the Italians, family, education, behavior, and real motivation come before skill.

Now you have put in place the first 15 minutes of your interview, building a solid foundation for the meeting. If you have business contacts within the company, you may already know what qualities the employer is looking for. If so, orient your answers to best fit the employer’s needs.

Finally, avoid mentioning bureaucracy, logistics and practical problems. They have no place in a job interview.

About Author

Ugo Marrone works in Italy as Ericsson’s people management, compensation and benefit, and payroll coordinator. He also worked with four major companies in Italy and has a law degree. His interests include all aspects of human resources.