Now Its All About Me

You have probably been on several job interviews and  have mastered the job interview. However, I have sent many people on a job interview and have suggested that they prepare for the interview.  Some of the candidates thought the interview would be a snap, so they didn’t feel the need to prepare.  It was a no brainer.  I can remember one recent example, when my client wanted the candidate to take a test on the technology they would be responsible for should they land the job. I had suggested to my candidate that they study and refresh their memory on the technologies so they can ace the test.  My candidate ignored my advice and they flunked the test.  Needless to say they didn’t get the job.  Unfortunately this particular candidate really wanted the job because the company was a great company and the commute for them  would be a short one. So although you may have been on several interviews, it never hurts to review these tips.

Interview Tips

1. Avoid, “YES” or “NO” answers. Provide examples of projects or experience when asked.
2. Be prepared to discuss your background. Present your background specifically on how you can help solve their business need.  Give examples of your skills and experience that is relevant to what they need.
3. You want to be able to answer these 2 questions:  Tell me about yourself? (Keep it professional; reasons for leaving, brief description of job duties, etc.)  What do you know about our company?
4. Research the Company. Go on the internet, check out their website.  Learn about their industry, products and services they provide.
5. Ask early on in the interview: What qualities are you looking for in the candidate that will fill this job? Keep them in mind as you answer your questions.
6. Show Interest in the job.  Show enthusiasm in your voice and tell them how you feel strongly that you are a good fit for the job and have the experience and skills to get the job done. Ask them if they have any concerns and make sure to address it accordingly.
7. Ask these winding up questions.  Towards the end of the interview ask any questions you have about the roles and responsibilities of the job that have not been clarified. Once that is done, ask if there are any questions or concerns that they have about your background so you have the opportunity to address them before you are done.  Make sure to understand the position they are trying to fill, what the responsibilities are and the skills needed. Express interest in the job before wrapping up!  Show your desire and confidence and ask for that next step.

Now that we covered what you should do on a job interview, let’s cover some of the things you should never do while on an interview:

1. NEVER discuss salary/rates, work hours, benefits or commute. It makes you look like you are not focused on the opportunity.
2. NEVER speak negatively about your current or previous employer.

Most importantly, when you are interviewing for a job, be truthful about your experience and be yourself.

Good Luck!