The first thing we share with them is to make sure they dress appropriately for the interview. It’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed as your attire reflects your level of professionalism and stature within the business community. As a search firm, it amazes us that anyone would ask us how they should dress for an executive interview. We think some individuals view the heat and humidity of Thailand as a reason to dress casually yet your first impression should be a good one and that means wearing a suit and tie for men with polished dress shoes. Furthermore, you should always take your shirts and suits to the dry cleaner prior to the interview which will insure you look professional. In regards to your shoes and belt, they should be the same color or at least in the same neighborhood, e.g., chestnut and chocolate are usually close enough, but dark, reddish brown and light tan are not. However, brown and black should be kept apart as if they were mortal enemies.
For women, a navy blue, grey or black suit is best when interviewing with a conservative company. When in doubt, ask one of recruiters what you should wear as some companies, particularly in the tech sector or hospitality tend to be more casual. Another exception is the fashion industry where your choice of clothing should reflect current fashion trends. In terms of shirts, a white or light colored tailored shirt should be an interview staple. The one area where women tend to get in trouble is with footwear as far too often they want to show off their sense of fashion and wear something that works against them. A mid heel closed toe pump is always a safe choice.
In terms of what to bring to the interview, you should always have two copies of your resume, a list of references and any documentation relating to your performance or successes. Some examples of documents that could be helpful are performance reviews, sales numbers, letters from your company acknowledging awards or accomplishments, etc. It’s important to show the hiring manager anything that substantiates your performance as these documents will eliminate any concern about your abilities. Ultimately, the person that gets hired is the individual who the company feels presents the lowest degree of risk and the highest chance of success.
During interviews, Thai men and women tend to be passive in comparison to professionals from Western countries. Although every position requires a different skill set and personality, it important to speak with confidence about your background (obviously, there is a line between confidence and arrogance yet most professionals should recognize the differences). As you discuss your career, its always helpful to highlight your career progression as it highlights a professional on the way “up”. During the discussion of your resume, do your best to highlight key achievements with each job as it reinforces you have a track record of success.
One mistake successful professionals often make, especially executives, is showing a lack of enthusiasm for the role. However, companies want to know that you want to work for them as the most successful executives in Thailand are passionate about what they do for a living. As a highly experienced search firm that has spoken to thousands of hiring managers, trust us when we tell you that playing “hard to get” does not work. One thing that we often tell candidates prior to an interview is to make sure you tell a company that you want the job and ask them if they have any reservations about continuing the interview process.
Lastly, it always helps to send a handwritten thank-you note to those you interviewed with as you will likely be the only person who has done so and this will separate you from others interviewing from the role. So good luck and have great success in your next interview.
