Whether you are fresh out of school, job hunting for months on end, or unexpectedly searching for work post layoff after years with the same company, job interviews can prove disquieting.
While some aspects of the process have changed in recent years, basic principles such as preparation, punctuality, and poise endure. Fewer than 25 percent of applicants make it to the interview stage, so craft your application content carefully—scan the job posting for keywords and align your skill descriptions accordingly to increase your chance of automated recruitment. Leverage your network for referrals—this can elevate you from the pool of applicants to a candidate with an interview.
Preparation
Consider what you want and what you bring to the table. Study the company, then practice articulately describing the professional strengths and shortcomings that align with your personal goals and desired outcomes. Frame your answers in terms of brief elevator pitches or value propositions: engaging, memorable, and succinct.
Study
Research the business to understand its values, mission, and product/service, as well as discern areas where your unique skill set would prove mutually beneficial. Scan your public social media presence to identify and remove tangible negative impacts. In addition, prepare 3-5 questions of your own to ask during the interview. This indicates interest and commitment as well as provides an opportunity to determine if the company’s culture is a good fit for you.
Strengths
Do not downgrade your experience or strengths, particularly if you bring years of work experience to the table. Keep the conversation professional and focused on the organization—tout your ability to deal with things on the fly and have one or two examples ready to share. In addition, many companies require skills tests or on the spot problem solving. Approach these as excellent opportunities to highlight any cross-functional strengths.
Shortcomings
Frame weaker areas as chances for learning. Prepare a few sentences about your approach to learning, both with and without formal training. If your resume includes gaps, be honest but do not dwell on the reason. If you were part of a layoff, focus on what you contributed while in the role as well as how you took advantage of what was provided as far as training or other job relocation assistance.
PUNCTUALITY
Part of punctuality is enmeshed in preparation; consider the technicalities
of getting to and through the actual meeting.
Transportation
If you are interviewing on location, consult your favorite map application to determine road conditions and timing, where to enter the building, and review your notes regarding who to ask for when you arrive. Allow extra time for unexpected occurrences.
Technology
Interviews are often online video calls with a panel of company representatives, on the spot problem solving, and occasionally require sample work. Ensure your personal technology solution is ready to go. Run a test call and have a backup plan, including the ability to employ a mobile hotspot if your internet connection fails. If you are interviewing online, execute a few test runs with a trusted friend to practice nonverbal cues. Log on early and dress appropriately from head to toe—if you must stand up for some reason, you don’t want your pajama bottoms on full display.
POISE
This includes dress and carriage throughout the interview. Be truthful and authentic to yourself while maintaining professionalism (future you will appreciate this should you be offered the position).
Keep the focus on the job—if asked about yourself, keep it professional, this is not the time to discuss your rock collection or your ardent love of avocadoes.
According to Carnegie, impressions are formed in the first seven seconds, so walk in with a strong handshake, solid eye contact, and a confident manner. Stow your mobile phone and keep your answers succinct—avoid falling into rabbit holes and losing interviewer interest.
At the close, verbally thank the interviewers, reaffirm interest, confirm next steps, and confidently state you look forward to hearing from them. Always follow up within 24 hours of the interview with an engaging, personalized thank you note or phone call. The follow up is an opportune time to add anything you might have missed or clarify a murky point. Express your appreciation for the opportunity, reiterate your interest in the position, and briefly mention a key point from the interview.
