Top Mistakes to Avoid During an NNPC Interview

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While general interview skills are crucial, preparing for an NNPC interview requires a deeper dive into the company, the industry, and your potential contributions to Nigeria’s energy sector. Especially if you are trying to transition to the oil and gas sector, there are certain things you will do that will set you apart from the rest of the other candidates.

In this article, we will review the top mistakes to avoid during an NNPC interview and how to avoid them so you can perform better and get recruited.

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Table of Contents

Top Mistakes to Avoid During an NNPC Interview

Recent reports show that approximately 80% of candidates who applied for the NNPC recruitment process failed to score above 20 on the assessment, even including those with first-class or upper-second-class honors degrees. While this might seem alarming, it’s important to understand that the NNPC recruitment process is designed to be rigorous and merit-based.

The process is generally fast-paced and covers a wide range of topics, making it essential for candidates to be well-prepared. (check out our previous article on the Common Questions To Expect During NNPC Graduate Trainee Interview to gain more insight.

In this section, we will discuss the mistakes candidates make either before, during, or after an NNPC interview, and in the subsequent section we are going to look into how best to avoid these common mistakes in order to increase your chances of getting recruited.

1. Lack of Research:

One of the most common mistakes candidates make is inadequate research before the interview. Failing to thoroughly research NNPC, its subsidiaries, current projects, and the overall Nigerian oil and gas industry can significantly diminish your chances of success in the recruitment process.

Recommended: How To Research A Company Before Going For An Interview

2. Poorly Prepared Answers:

Another common mistake to avoid during an NNPC interview is giving generic or unprepared answers to behavioral and technical questions. This demonstrates a lack of initiative and proactiveness.

3. Weak Technical Knowledge: Mistakes to Avoid During an NNPC Interview

Lacking in-depth knowledge of oil and gas concepts, industry trends, or specific technical skills relevant to the role is another mistake people make during NNPC interviews.

4. Negative or Disrespectful Remarks:

Criticizing previous employers, colleagues, or the Nigerian oil and gas industry won’t sell you out as the best candidate NNPC is looking to recruit. For example

My boss was incompetent and a micromanager
My coworkers were lazy and unmotivated.
The company is poorly managed
They don’t care about their employees.

PS: Never disclose any confidential information about your former employer, such as trade secrets, financial data, or internal strategies.

5. Lack of Enthusiasm:

Another mistake applicants often make is appearing uninterested or unenthusiastic about the opportunity to work at NNPC.

Others include:

Poor eye contact, fidgeting, rambling, or using inappropriate language.
Failing to ask insightful questions about the role, the team, or the company.
Not demonstrating an understanding of NNPC’s values and how your personality aligns with the company culture.

Steps You Can Take To Avoid Making These Mistakes?

Spend time on the NNPC website, industry publications, and news articles. Understand their mission, values, recent developments, and challenges.
Practice the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. Prepare concise and impactful answers to common questions.
Brush up on your technical knowledge, review industry publications, and be prepared to discuss your understanding of relevant concepts.
Maintain a positive and professional demeanor throughout the interview. Focus on your strengths and accomplishments. Avoid complaining about your salary, benefits, or working conditions at your previous job.
Demonstrate genuine interest in NNPC, its mission, and the role you’re applying for. Ask insightful questions to show your engagement.
Maintain good eye contact, practice active listening, and project confidence and professionalism through your body language.
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates your interest and engagement.
Research NNPC’s values and culture. During the interview, highlight how your own values and work ethic align with theirs.

***Steps to avoid common mistakes during NNPC interviews***

Conclusion on Top Mistakes to Avoid During an NNPC Interview

By keeping these tips in mind during your interview preparation, you can significantly increase your chances of success.

If you’d like to further enhance your interview preparation and gain a competitive edge, feel free to contact us. We can provide personalized guidance and support to help you achieve your career goals at NNPC.