Dear DWs,

How should you prepare for an interview with a prospective employer? How do you convince your employer that you are the right worker for their family? Here are some dos and don’ts for interviews!

Dos:

1. Remember to ask for the prospective employer’s phone number so you can contact them in case of any issues e.g. you get lost or will be late for the interview.
2. Check the interview location beforehand and be absolutely sure of where the interview location will be. Look up a map if you are not too sure. If you are still uncertain, do not hesitate to clarify with your interviewer the locations and ask for directions.
3. Allow yourself more time to travel to the interview location so that you’re not rushed and can present yourself at best possible. It is advisable to be always arrive at the interview premise at least 15 minutes before.
4. Bring the relevant documents. This includes your work permit, passport and any recommendation letters you might have.  Bring copies of these documents to leave with the employer; they will likely be meeting many workers that day and this will help them remember you.
5. Inform the employer if you cannot or decided not to turn up for the interview. Not doing so is very unprofessional and feedback from employers will be reflected on Anisya’s system. Being black listed might discourage other employers from clicking on your profile.

Don’ts

1. Do not lie about your credentials and employment history. Employers will check what you say against your ad, so make sure you are truthful about your credentials and employment history. Most get unimpressed when they realise that the FDW is lying about herself. Even if you have experienced short employment contracts, do not be afraid to share with your potential employer the reason why. Employers are not unreasonable people, and they will empathize with your situation if you are willing to share.
2. Do not sign up for an interview you are not interested in. Most employers state explicitly about their family type and their expectations in their ad. So, if you are not interested in looking after children, do not sign up for an interview with a family with children.
3. Do not come empty –handed. How do you make sure that you have an edge over the next worker being interviewed? It boils down to your recommendation letters, and your ability to be detail-oriented and turn up for an interview with the relevant documents