If you got an invitation to an interview in Russia, congratulations! You might have done really well during the paper screening. First of all, don’t get nervous, although Russians may seem very serious and a little less friendly than other countries to people they meet for the first time, you should do well if you’ve taken note of our tips in the culture section of this guide. To add to your confidence, read the following tips below when getting into an interview with a Russian.

Tip 1: When attending an interview with a Russian, dress appropriately. A formal attire with men wearing dark colored suits over dark colored shirts, with nice leather shoes and trousers, and with women in dark colored suits, shirts, and pantsuits, would be appreciated very much. However, employers wouldn’t mind answering if you ask them for a specific dress code when they invite you over for an interview. Some companies would accept the regular corporate attire, while some would rather have you in formal, so it would also be nice to ask.

Tip 2: Observe punctuality and arrive a few minutes before your interview. Russians value punctuality and would expect you to be ready on time. Try to research about the company you are applying to, and make sure you are well aware of the nature of their business. It will also help that you update yourself with the current whereabouts of the company, to match your skills with any potential struggles the company is facing, which you’ll have the opportunity to share during your interview.

Tip 3: Prepare for more than one interview with some companies. Aside from the HR, the top management of the firm would normally do a second interview with the applicant as well.

Tip 4: There is a portion in the interview where the candidate will be given a chance to ask any question to the employer and you shouldn’t waste this part by asking unnecessary questions. You may try asking about the current state of the company in terms of operations, or how the company usually responds to candidates for employment. This will give your employer a hint of how interested you really are in working for them.

If you’re the employee they are looking for, the HR personnel shall reach you out the soonest possible time they are able. Although it is not an offense to follow up on the HR officer, make sure you just politely shoot an email if you think you should be hearing from them already.