Not all interviews go smoothly. Now there's an understatement! As a career consultant, I've heard a lot of stories about rocky interviews. This week, I'll share strategies to help you cruise through the interview and land that job offer.
Interviews can be nerve-wracking. We're eager to impress with our knowledge and enthusiasm. So taking time to listen to an interviewer's entire question is tougher than it seems. Let the employer talk until he is finished. Ask for clarification if necessary. You're not helping yourself if you interrupt, particularly if your answer doesn't match the question.
Once you've finally answered the question, how can you be sure your comments registered as intended?
Why not ask for confirmation along the lines of, "Did that address your question?" Or try, "Is there anything you would like me to discuss in detail?"
Too often our answers don't fully address the employer's specific question. Try to make sure your answer addresses the topic at hand. By the way, if you feel as if you're rambling, just stop. How? Ask a question.
Another problem area in interviews is the temptation to go negative, whether discussing a previous job or boss.
Obviously, this should be avoided, but what if the question is, "What would you have changed about … ?"
This invites a negative response. Don't take the bait.
Instead, acknowledge that no job is perfect and take a moment to speak about the positives from your previous situations, such as what you learned through whatever adversity you might have encountered.
Also, remember that demonstrating the value you would bring to a company is critical to landing a job offer.
As a consumer, you've likely heard the term "features and benefits." Well, consider the interview as a buying process.
Features are nice, but ultimately, knowing a feature's actual benefit is what helps persuade someone to move ahead with a purchase.
It's the same with the employer during an interview.
She might like what you bring to the table, but ultimately, the specific value she sees tips the scale in your favor.
For example, as a candidate your "features" might include a college education, a certain number of years of experience within a particular job function or industry, or certain qualities or skills.
So briefly explain why or how these attributes will help the employer.
Experience in a given industry means you'll likely be more effective right out of the gate, creating efficiencies within the organization that can help drive profits.
If possible, describe an accomplishment where you came on board and made an impact.
Are you a recent grad without much work experience?
Like thousands of others, you have a degree and not a whole lot else at this point.
Why not point out how a college education represents achieving a goal?
Talk about the skills you honed in college, such as time management, prioritizing and readily picking up new concepts. Cite specific examples.
Finally, and I've said this before, end your interview on a clear, positive note.
Make certain the employer knows that not only can you do the job but also that you want to do it.
It's amazing how often someone I've interviewed ends the process with a "cold fish" handshake.
Don't do that. And make sure you know when the employer plans to take the next hiring step — such as an offer or future interviews. Ask permission to contact him if that deadline passes.
Ineffective communication negatively affects all aspects of our lives. I hope these tips help keep you focused during the interview. Good luck!
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