Preparing For The Job Interview
Acording to research, unemployment continues to rank among the top two priorities of greatest concern for Americans. Do you know what the other one is? The economy. These two juggernauts continually switch off between the number one and number two spots among most of the nation’s polls reporting on problems and priorities without consequence because for all practical purposes, they’re virtually one and the same. The bottom line is that millions of people are looking for work, and if that includes you, you’re going to have to stand out.
In past columns I’ve addressed a variety of topics for finding work including tips for writing a winning resume, and creative ways to find work when companies aren’t hiring. Today we’ll look at best practices for succeeding in one of the most critical steps to getting hired: The ever-intimidating, yet increasingly essential, job interview. If you’re one of the fortunate ones reading this column who already has a job, don’t put down the paper just yet. There are still valuable nuggets of information contained herein which are applicable to your professional success regardless of your employment status. You can implement these same principles I propose for succeeding in a job interview on your next sales call or appointment with an existing client. After all, most of the keys to a successful job interview have to do with your verbal and non-verbal communication skills –and I’m pretty sure you’re communicating verbally and non-verbally at your job right now. The question is, what are you communicating, and how effectively are you communicating it?
Effective communication, whether you currently have a job or not, depends on how well you can convey a particular message. How well you convey that message depends on a series of factors including your knowledge of the subject, your level of preparedness, and your physical and mental state among other things. Each of these factors can be fortified and enhanced to increase your effectiveness when communicating and, consequently, increase the likelihood of success in any given circumstance –including a job interview for which I’ve categorized these best practices into three sections: Before, during, and after the job interview.
Before The Interview:
- Research the company you are interviewing for: Most organizations have a corporate website where you can easily find valuable bits of information which you can astutely work in to your interview. In fact, there’s a good possibility that the person interviewing you may not be aware of the specific details on their own website –especially if it’s a large company. Your ability to weave pertinent and precise information into your interview will create a lasting impression on the interviewer and set you apart from the other candidates vying for the same position.
- Research the product offering: Product knowledge is critical to any company’s success. If, during the interview, you can demonstrate that you not only understand a company’s products, but also relate to it, the interviewer will likely interpret that positively.
- Practice makes perfect: In this competitive job market you can’t afford to leave anything to chance. Don’t wait until you get to the job interview to start fielding questions or improvise. Take time to anticipate the questions you may be asked and prepare your answers in advance. This type of preparation affords you a level of tranquility and confidence that will shine through positively during the actual interview.
- Dress For Success: For some reason, many applicants will dress for a job interview as though they were going instead to a night club or party. In an effort to impress, they end up creating the wrong impression. In a professional setting, nothing beats an elegant, professional look. Executive positions require nothing less than a suit for the men, and a suit or appropriate dress for the ladies. A jacket, or at least a collared shirt with neatly pressed pants are appropriate for technical and trade positions.
During The Interview:
- Body Language: According to research, much of what we communicate is expressed non-verbally. Whether we know it or not, we transmit messages through our body language and gestures. Be “in the moment” and let your confidence shine through. Look your interviewer in the eyes when you speak with him or her. Don’t forget to smile.
- Take Your Time When Answering Questions: Don’t volunteer more information than is being asked of you, and don’t try to manipulate the conversation. Also remember that the first interview is not the time or place to ask about vacation days or time off.
After The Interview:
- Write a Thank You Letter: Believe it or not, most applicants do not take the time to write a thank you note after the job interview for fear of being too pushy. On the contrary! A well-written, sincere thank you note will go a long way to separate you from the crowd. It’s also the perfect opportunity to tactfully reiterate an important message you discussed, or mention something you forgot, during the interview.