As I have mentioned before, one of the parts of my job I like the best is hiring and promoting people. I also know that one of the most dreaded and stressed over times in many peoples' career is sitting across from me discussing the potential of them taking on a new job. I have also learned that the majority of people very seldom are involved in a face to face interview and even fewer are involved in an interview with multiple interviewers. As a result I have noticed that very few people have properly prepared for their interview and as a result very few people accomplish what they hope during those precious 45-60 minutes they get to spend with the interviewer(s). I thought this week I would share a few of the very basic items I would hope one could communicate during that interview:
1. Know your story. As a candidate you had better know why you want this job. Too often people hesitate or ramble on when asked why they want the job in question. Prepare, you will be asked this question as one of the first topics during the discussion. Also know why you are a good candidate for the role. The interviewer does not want to work at getting you to tell them why you are a good candidate, they want to explore the strengths you bring out. Most of us will not be interviewed by a behavioural psychologist, so you need to drive the conversation through knowing your own story.
2. Avoid crutch words when speaking. Certain words and phrases will grate on the interviewer when used repeatedly or incorrectly. If you look back at a recent speech by US Vice President Joe Biden you will lose track on the number of times he uses the word 'literally', most of the time incorrectly. Not only does he use the word incorrectly, he repeats it so often that becomes what you remember about his speech. Please also avoid phrases 'if I am to be totally honest'. Of course you are going to be honest, you are applying for a job with my company, I do not expect you to bend the truth. This is a business interview, work hard to avoid words and phrases that you would use in casual conversation such as 'like' 'at the end of the day' etc.. Very few of us can speak articulately as Stephen Lewis, however we can all be professional.
3. Dress properly. Personal image is a good topic for several blogs and worthy of more than a few lines, however still worth noting. Dress to the level of the position you are applying for and the expectations of the interviewer (once again, do your homework and know the interviewer). There are several consultants who can help with your personal image. The idea is to not underdress and not overdress, typically a business suit is appropriate.
4. Know your audience. I have had several candidates hand me a stack of papers that include a copy of their resume, action plan etc., and say as they were handing it to me "I know you prefer electronic copies but I thought I would bring you a paper copy".
5. Be confident and relaxed. If your body language is rigid and you appear nervous you will not likely get the job.
6. Take notes. Show engagement throughout the process by referring to the notes you made before the meeting (you did prepare didn't you?) and noting responses that will require further thinking and follow-up on your part.
7. Follow-up. Everybody likes to receive a thank-you note. This is not an e-mail or direct tweet, this is a hand written note delivered via traditional snail mail. The day following your interview is also a good time to send an e-mail or phone call asking a follow-up question that shows you have continued to think about how you would contribute to the role being discussed (hint - this is not the time to ask about the limits on your expense account).
8. Practise. Why do people continue to feel that they do not need to practise their craft before unleashing themselves on others. Role playing has a great deal of value in preparing for a job interview. Take the time to have a trusted friend, one who will provide you granular feedback, interview you. If you are fortunate enough to have a mentor this is a great opportunity to utilize their skills and experience to help you prepare. Professional athletes do not go to training camp without a series of off season work outs, why would you consider showing up to an interview without practising?
This is a lot to think about, however these interviews are often a water shed moment in your career. While you might not get the job you are interviewing for, a good interview can set you up well for the next available job, increased opportunity in your existing role and additional attention from senior management. Take the time to prepare, role play with somebody experienced in interviewing and understand what is expected of you.
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