Posted on 16/06/2025 by Charlotte Frank
We know that despite having the right experience for the role, interviews can be a daunting experience. However, with the right preparation and understanding of the local market, you can go into the interview more confident than ever before.
Utilising our experience recruiting business support professionals, we have compiled our top tips to help you navigate the interview process effectively and increase your chances of a successful interview in Hong Kong's competitive job market.
1. Research the Company
It might sound obvious, but ensure that you thoroughly research the company. Look at news sources for recent articles on the business. Understand its mission and values and review any recent business developments. Familiarise yourself with its products or services, as well as its competitors.
This knowledge will not only demonstrate your interest but also enable you to tailor your responses to align with the company's goals and market challenges and allow you to frame any questions that you might want to ask towards the end of the interview.
2. Research the Interviewer
Review the company’s website and LinkedIn to also look to understand the background of the interviewer. Again, this might help you to ask questions later in the interview – if the interviewer has progressed within the business as an example, you may wish to ask questions around the future career progression.
3. Prepare for common interview questions
If you are partnering with an agency such as Charlotte Frank, the consultant that you are working with will give you context to the role and its requirements. Whilst questions will vary by industry and position, there are common questions frequently asked in interviews, such as:
·Experience-related questions:Consider how you will highlight your relevant skills and accomplishments. Focus on what you can bring to the role and business.
·Behavioural questions:Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, showcasing how you overcame challenges, contributed to a project or team.
·Cultural fit questions:Employers may ask how you align with the company’s values – be ready to explain how your personal values resonate with those of the organisation.
·Why us:The interviewer may want to know why you are specifically interested in the particular role and business.
·Weaknesses:This may tie into how you overcame challenges but consider how you might also be able to spin any weakness into a positive.
4. Understand the business culture and etiquette
Hong Kong’s diverse, multicultural environment has a unique blend of Eastern and Western business practices. Some key cultural considerations for you include:
·Respectfulness:Ensure that you are respectful in your interactions as soon as you enter the building. Address interviewers using their titles and last names unless invited to use their first names.
·Dress Code:Dress professionally and conservatively. Business attire is typically formal, so opt for dark, modest clothing unless advised otherwise.
·Punctuality:Punctuality is highly valued in Hong Kong, so it is essential to arrive on time for your interview. To avoid any last-minute stress, plan to arrive approximately 10 minutes early. This allows sufficient time to locate the venue, check in if necessary, and compose yourself before the interview begins.
5. Demonstrate adaptability and teamwork
Employers often look for candidates who can work well in teams and adapt to changing environments. From your preparation, highlight instances from your experience where you have successfully collaborated with others or embraced change. Displaying a willingness and ability to adapt will resonate positively with potential employers.
6. Ask thoughtful questions
At the conclusion of the interview, be prepared to ask thoughtful and relevant questions. Doing so demonstrates your engagement and interest in the role while also helping you gather important information to support your decision-making. Keep in mind that some of your questions may be addressed during the course of the conversation, so it’s advisable to bring a prepared list as a ‘bank’ to draw from. While interviews are a two-way process, remember that this remains a formal setting—maintain your professionalism throughout.
Consider asking (more) about:
Company culture and team dynamics
Leadership style
Opportunities for professional development and advancement
Upcoming projects
Business challenges the company may be facing
If you are interviewing directly with the company, you may choose to send an email thanking them for their time, reiterating your interest in the role and briefly summarising why you believe you would be a good fit. This small gesture can leave a lasting positive impression and demonstrate your professionalism.
We hope these tips help you feel more prepared for your next interview. If you are interested in moving positions, you can view our open roles here.