published FEBRUARY 2023

How to Ace A Job Interview

Contributed by Deryne Sim

Job interviews are stressful for anyone, and even more so for LGBTQ candidates, because they may face discrimination if they disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI) during the interview.

During an #AskMeAnything session as part of Q Chamber’s series of events, Google’s senior recruiters: Christine Lim, Executive Recruitment Lead and Clifford Teo, Talent Engagement Lead, shared their thoughts on how candidates can make the best out of each interview.

TIP 1: Do your homework.

Not every employer is an LGBTQ-inclusive employer. Before applying for any role, candidates should look up the company’s website and social media accounts (e.g., Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram) and any articles written about the company to ascertain if the company is an LGBTQ-inclusive employer. Signs that point towards a company being an LGBTQ-inclusive employer include: having an anti-discrimination policy, LGBTQ employee resource group, and diversity, equity and inclusion policies. Red flags include: application forms which require candidates to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI) without providing a valid reason, because such information could be used by the company to weed out LGBTQ candidates.

TIP 2: Don’t come out unless you’re sure it’s safe!

The purpose of the interview process is to assess whether the candidate has the relevant skillsets for the role. A candidate’s SOGI has no bearing on their suitability for the role. Hence, candidates should not disclose their SOGI at the interview stage, unless there is a real need to do so, or if they have ascertained that the company is an LGBTQ-inclusive employer and feel comfortable doing so.

TIP 3: An interview is a two-way process.

Candidates get to ask questions too! Candidates should treat interviews as an opportunity to find out more about the role, the hiring manager, and the company’s culture.

TIP 4:  If it’s not a good fit, move on!  

Similar to interviews, the selection process is a two-way process.  Candidates have the freedom to decide whether they wish to accept an offer. If you discovered red flags about the company, or felt that the company is not an LGBTQ-inclusive employer based on the responses that you received during the interview process, then that company is not the right employer for you and you should consider other roles.

Deryne Sim is a media and entertainment lawyer and an LGBTQ activist. Deryne leads the update of the Same But Different  legal guidebook for LGBTQ people in Singapore. She is also a volunteer with Pink Dot SG, a social movement which promotes acceptance and equality for LGBTQ people and the Ready4Repeal movement, which advocated for the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Singapore.