Industries can be very different so it is important to dress, prepare and conduct yourself appropriately when preparing for job interviews at freight forwarding, logistics, shipping and courier companies. They are looking to see particular skills and qualities from interviewees.
First of all, remember that you are being interviewed because the employer wants to hire someone - not to trip you up or embarrass you.
The employer will be evaluating your strong and weak points - your qualifications, skills, intellectual qualities, attitude, aptitudes, stability, motivation and maturity.
Job interviews are key events in your life because the thirty minutes to one hour you spend with interviewers determine a big part of your future.
Dress code
Smart attire is essential for men and women.
Preparing for the job interview
- Know the exact place and time of your interview, the employer's full name and its correct pronunciation and the job titles of your interviewers
- Do some research on the company - find out how long they have been established, how many offices they have, if they are a national or worldwide company, etc.
Interview questions for Freight Forwarding, Logistics, Shipping and Courier job interviews
Be prepared for questions such as:
- Why do you want to work for our company?
- What do you know about our company?
- What qualifications do you have that make you feel that you will be successful in your field?
- Can you get references from previous employers?
- What are your weaknesses?
- Are you willing to relocate?
- How do you spend your spare time? What are your hobbies? Never say clubbing or pubbing - companies do not like to hear this!
- What have you done which shows initiative and willingness to work?
Do's and Don'ts
- DO plan to arrive on time or a few minutes early
- DO take you time completing your application form neatly and accurately
- DO wait until you are offered a chair before sitting
- Sit upright in your chair
- Look alert and interested at all times
- Be a good listener as well as a good talker
- Smile
- DO look your interviewer in the eye while you talk to them
- DON'T lie. Answer questions truthfully, frankly and as "to the point" as possible
- DON'T ever make derogatory comments about your present or former employers or companies
- DON'T over-answer questions
- The interviewer may steer the conversation into politics or economics. Since this is a sensitive situation it is best to answer the question honestly, trying not to say any more than is necessary
- DON'T enquire about the salary, holidays, bonuses or other benefits at the initial interview unless you are positive the employer is interested in hiring you. If the employer asks what salary you want, indicate what you have earned but that you are more interested in the opportunity than in a specific amount at the present
- DON'T answer questions with a simple "yes" or "no": explain wherever possible
- Be aware of the company's smoking policy