On Air with Astro Syok: How to Ace Your Job Interview in Malaysia—Hiredly’s VP of People & Culture Shares Expert Tips

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, but the right preparation makes all the difference. In this Astro Syok Podcast episode, Hiredly’s VP of People & Culture shares expert advice on how to stand out, answer tricky questions, and leave a lasting impression on hiring managers.

By Matt Khoo on 2025-03-19 at 9:16 AM

Updated on 2025-03-21 at 7:00 AM

Meet the Guest

Nervous about your next interview? You’re not alone. To help you prep like a pro, Hiredly’s VP of People & Culture, Joselyn Lau, joined Astro’s Syok Podcast with hosts Tako and Wei Wen to share expert tips on how to impress employers and land the job. With 10 years of experience in headhunting and in-house HR, Joselyn has seen it all—from interview wins to awkward fails.

Let’s dive into her top tips for interview success (and how to avoid the most common mistakes)!

1. Skipping Company Research Is a Red Flag

One of the first things Joselyn looks for in a candidate? Whether they did their homework.
✅ Check the company’s website, social media, and latest news.
✅ Look up team members on LinkedIn to get a sense of the work culture.
✅ Read Glassdoor or Google reviews—but take them with a grain of salt.

💡 “Don’t judge a company based on one or two bad reviews. Do your research and come to your own conclusions,” says Joselyn.

2. Prepare for Common Questions (But Don’t Sound Scripted)

It’s not about memorizing lines—it’s about knowing your story.

✅ Think about real-life examples that showcase your strengths.
✅ Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✅ Avoid robotic answers like “I’m a perfectionist”—show some personality!

3. Know How to Handle Tricky Questions

“Tell me about a time you failed.”
Yep, it’s a classic curveball. But it’s not a trap—it’s a chance to show how you grow.

✅ Be honest (don’t say “I’ve never failed”).
✅ Focus on what you learned and how you bounced back.
✅ Keep your answer relevant to the role.

💡 “Interviewers aren’t looking for perfect candidates—they’re looking for people who can learn, adapt, and solve problems,” Joselyn reminds us.

4. Avoid Common Interview Mistakes

Some things may seem small but leave a big impression (not always the good kind).

❌ Don’t speak in one-word answers like “yes” or “no.”
❌ Don’t interrupt the interviewer.
✅ Keep your answers clear and focused.
✅ Ask meaningful questions at the end to show genuine interest.

Job interviews don’t have to be scary. With a little prep, the right mindset, and real-life examples that show your value, you’ll walk in with confidence. So breathe, smile, and be yourself—employers are hiring people, not robots. Want more career tips? Explore jobs on Hiredly, join the Young Talent Community to grow your career, and take the Hiredly Work Personality Test to discover your strengths and find the role that fits you best.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode here: Astro Syok Podcast

By Matt Khoo on 2025-03-19 at 9:16 AM