You’ve been called for a job interview. What’s the first thing you do? Throw a party? Don’t! Being asked for a job interview is so precious. A job interview is your entry to actually being offered the job. You don’t want to lose this great opportunity by wasting time celebrating. You need to prepare.
Preparation is key
Let me share the basics with you to get you started. An interview starts in the parking lot or the subway. Be nice to all those you meet in the company; especially the receptionist. Do your homework regarding the dress code. You don’t want to be overdressed nor do you want to be under dressed. Call the company and ask about the dress code. It’s that simple.
Keep these fundamentals principles in mind:
- Demonstrate to the interviewer that you are the conduit to the employer’s solutions.
- Demonstrate how you can help with saving and making money.
- Contribute to the culture. Demonstrate how you ‘fit in’
Read between the lines
A job interview is an evaluation by an employer to see if you are the best person for the job. And yes, you are being judged. The moment you pass the door to meet with the interviewer, they are asking themselves: Is this the person I want to work with? Is this the person I want on my team?
You need to prepare in a way that will address the question behind the question. Let me give you an example.
When you are asked ‘What kinds of people do you have difficulty working with?’ The interviewer’s concerns are: Are you a team player? Are you able to adapt to new situations? Are you a troublemaker? You need to answer that question with examples that demonstrate your ability to communicate and relate to others as well as your adaptability to work in a diverse environment.
Tell me about yourself
Everyone dreads that question. They don’t know how to answer and how long the answer should be; nor do they prepare properly to answer this fundamental question. You need to demonstrate what you have to offer and what you are capable of doing. You also need to itemize what makes YOU unique in what you offer and how you do it.
In order to answer this question effectively, make sure you address the following: Why do you think you are the most qualified for the job? Why should you be hired?
The way to answer these questions is to identify which of your unique personality traits and skills and abilities are aligned with the job you are interviewing for.
Share your stories
Make sure you answer interview questions by telling a story. Your story should start with where you were; then talk about what you did and finish with the outcome of your actions. Your answer shouldn’t take longer than sixty seconds. A good preparation will help with your focus, assertiveness and confidence.
When scheduled for a job interview allow enough time to prepare. The more prepared you are the greater chances you have to get hired. Only then you can celebrate. Have fun with it!
