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ACING THE INTERVIEW
NY moves – April 1, 2005
by Barbara Laskin
STACKING THE DECK
There’s no doubt that interviewing for a new job can be a nerve-wracking, stomach-turning experience. But I always, remind people that there is not just ONE job out there, but many, and there are lots of opportunities that could be fruitful. I also warn people that there will inevitably be rejection along the road to getting hired, but if they maintain a positive outlook and appear professional and enthusiastic, they will eventually land a satisfying job.
So how do you stack the deck in your favor? One of the ways is to prepare as thoroughly as you can, as if a curious reporter was interviewing you. Since and interview is about communication, it helps if you take a page out of media training. As a former TV anchor and reporter myself, I can assure you that with preparation, a little bit of investigation and a professional appearance and delivery, you too, can ace that job interview.
Employers are looking for many things in a new employee, but the one thing that never fails to impress is when someone does some homework on the company she might work for. A friend of min recently hired and executive assistant and one of the deciding factors in hiring her was her knowledge about the company. My friend was incredibly impressed and thought that if she did that for the interview, imagine what she could do when she’s hired.
DEALING THE RIGHT CARDS
What are you’re goals during an interview? Since most employers don’t hire on the spot, but need time to reflect and check on references, your goal is to make yourself memorable. Your primary purpose is to catapult yourself to the top of the heap and make someone believe that “You’re the one.” There are several ways to create a lasting impression. Just like in the media interview, you have to keep your responses brief and focused. While enthusiastic people are always valued, someone who talks too much, especially in a small office, is a nuisance. Additionally, a blabbermouth might eventually say something that will turn off a prospective employer. So, during a job interview, keep your answers brief, and to the point.
PLAYING THE TRUMP
It is equally important during and interview to have a confident, animated delivery style. While you don’t want to charge in and overwhelm someone, there’s nothing more appealing than a confident person who has some zip in her delivery. Confident people are those who appear sure of themselves and what they’re doing. They sit up straight. They speak clearly and concisely. They are forthright. They describe their capabilities, but they don’t brag. They are believable, and approachable.
Since phone skills are very important today, it’s imperative that you practice how to speak clearly and distinctly before you head out for that interview. You can do this by speaking into your phone, recording your voice and listening to the result. If you like what you hear, others will too. If you don’t, re-record and keep doing it until you enjoy listening to yourself.
They key to a successful interviewer is to prepare for it as best you can and learn something from each interview experience. We all know that hiring someone is a very personal decision. You may be a terrific candidate, and still not be hired. But if you do your homework, you chances of getting the job will improve immeasurably. Just remember, you need to come prepared, polished and professional. You need to stay positive – no matter what. And since a successful interview might well determine the course of your life can take, it’s essential you take each on seriously and methodically prepare for it.