Business process outsourcing or BPOs have become a major game changer in the Philippine labor scene. Since their rise some two decades ago, more and more people are now becoming interested in working for a BPO company. A job here promises a great starting salary and benefits, so who would want to pass up the opportunity?
If you’re getting ready for a contact center job interview, below are 10 tips top help you along your way.
Don’t Panic
This is probably the first and the most common tip you’d get in any job interview. The truth is, panicking will not get you anywhere. You should just relax and think positive. So you made a little grammar mistake while you were introducing yourself, just pick up and continue. Don’t linger on the small details, thinking that you’re going to mess up. It’s easier to just breathe and do your best.
Prepare Yourself
If it’s your first time applying for a BPO, then you need to prepare yourself. Go over the details about yourself that you want to present to them as your niche. Don’t forget that you’re not the only one after this job. Think about what makes you the best possible candidate to hire. Have an extra resume ready, just in case you’ll need it.
Dress Properly
Physical presentation matters in any job interview. The last thing you want to do is to go to an interview looking like you just got out of bed. You have to look presentable and smart. Think business casual. A nice dress with some flats or a dressy blouse and some slacks for the ladies, and a well-fitting buttoned shirt with clean denim jeans and leather shoes for the men. Don’t overdress though, it could be too much.
Focus your Attention on the Interviewer
Nodding your head and making the occasional “uh-hum”, “yes”, and “no” reply is not a guarantee that you’ll pass the interview. You need to listen carefully and understand what the interviewer is asking you. They will throw a lot of questions at you, and if you don’t listen and keep focus, you might end up falling off track. Also, keep good eye contact with the interviewer. Show them that you’re really sincere with your answers by looking them in the eye.
Look Up Common Questions
Businessman looking up at large question mark
Recruiters in the BPO industry have common questions that they ask applicant. For example, they usually ask if you’re fine with shifting schedules and working at night. They’ll also ask about any previous experience working for the BPO industry and how long you worked there for. They also often ask about how well you work under stress and how you are affected by it.
Get Ready for Role-Play
BPO recruiters not only gauge how well you speak, but as well as how well you carry yourself in a certain situation. Many final interviews often have role-play scenarios where you’re asked to fix a problem or sell a certain product. Don’t worry, this is normal. Just do your best. Some companies even go as far as doing the interview over the phone to simulate a work scenario.
Don’t Lose Focus
Some interviewers would try to catch you with your guard down by showing a lack of professionalism or modesty. Don’t falter and keep your focus on the goal. Sometimes, they would even ask you an awkward or difficult question just to throw you off. It’s just a way for them to test how your mind works under pressure. If you stay on your best behavior and answer the questions the best way you know how, then you get a better chance in getting the job.
Expect It to Take Long
When you apply for a position in a contact center here in the Philippines, it’s usually going to take you the whole day. The recruitment process takes time, so don’t fret if you have been waiting for a day or two for their reply. If you make it past the initial interview and exams, recruiters usually tell you right there and then if you’re eligible for a final interview. Often times, they would set your expectations about when you will be called for the next step of your application, so wait for them patiently.
Odd Time for an Interview
A lot of contact centers have their recruitment officers working long after the usual business hours, so don’t be surprised if they asked you to drop by the office for your final interview in the middle of the night. Often times, it’s because a manager or a supervisor from a certain account that you’re profiled in is the one to interview you, and they’re only available during these times.
Have A Plan B
If, unfortunately, you did not get the job, then it’s always a good idea to have a plan B. There are a number of contact centers that you can apply for. Just because one turned you down, it doesn’t mean that you should stop trying. Send your resume to the next BPO company you’re interested in. Who knows, the next company might just be better for you.
A bonus tip is to remember to smile. Smiling can help reduce anxiety and keeps you focused. Show the interviewer a smile every now and then so they’ll know that you’re happy to be there. The job interview is just the first step. To really make it in the BPO industry, you need to be a people-person. Someone who works well with others. A smile and a positive, people-loving attitude is the key a great career in the BPO industry.
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