Great job! You've secured an interview for that perfect-fit, life changing opportunity. Now let's make sure you don't it slip away by not being prepared. Let's ramp-up your energy and get you prepared for several rounds of interviews. I've had the fortunate experience to be on both sides of this process many times and want to share my insights of key things you must do when interviewing.
Also, as a precursor for your interviews, you must conduct LinkedIn research on all of the interviewers. Doing the proper research will help you identify what matters most to each individual that you are interviewing with; what is their area of responsibility? How will your potential role interact with their role? Any snippet of information that can give you insight is an advantage that could make the difference in the outcome of the process.
Top 10 Must Do's for Interview Success
- First Impression Presence: It's no joke, your interview could be over before it begins if you don't portray a charismatic presence with your first impression. You need to greet your interviewer with a firm handshake, eye contact, a smile, (proper attire) and energy. It's also critical to read your audience and respond proportionally; too excited and you may not be taken seriously; too flat and you seem disinterested.
- Maintain Energy: Maintain your energy throughout the entire interview by staying engaged with your storytelling and listening. This may come naturally for many people, but critical to remember for those that need to push themselves to be outgoing.
- Rehearsed Preamble: It is absolutely mandatory that you have a sixty second introductory speech. You should expect an interviewer to ask you about your story. This is your first chance to sell yourself to your audience. This is your moment. You need to tell the story about why you are perfect for this role. You should weave important information about 'why you', 'why you're looking', 'why this role' and 'why this company'. Do not make the critical mistake of giving your chronological history; the interviewer wants to know you would be a great fit for the role and company and how your experience relates. You will also find that you can control much of the conversation by stating your values, attributes, beliefs early in the conversation.
- Practice Behavioral Responses: Many interviews will likely encompass several behavioral questions. You should map out half a dozen (or more) examples that you've had in your career. When you've thought about many of these stories, you'll find it easier to pivot to and spin a story to fit the context of the question. Think about the common behavioral questions: strengths, weaknesses, leadership, conflict, failure, selling an idea, and career vision.
- Relate Experience to the Role: Make sure to consistently link your experience and knowledge to the specific role throughout the interview. The interview team wants to know that you have the ability, willingness and mindset to accomplish the requirements of the role.
- Have a Vision: Share your ideas about how to fulfill, grow and expand the value of the role. Stress the reasons why you are excited about the role; be curious and hopeful. You should also outline a 30-60-90-day plan of efforts you'd pursue.
- Have Insightful Questions: Ask great questions. By asking thoughtful questions you demonstrate that you've done your research, explored the company, and have a genuine interest. You'll show that you care about the job and can be an asset to the organization.
- Address Areas of Concern/Opportunity: Once the interviewers have finished with their questions, ask them if they have any areas of concern about your ability to fulfill the role. This strategic question will give you the opportunity to specifically address any perceived weaknesses the interviewer may have about you. You cannot afford for the interviewer to leave the conversation with a doubt about any area of your ability.
- Leave No Doubt that you Want this Role: "I want this job." In closing, reiterate why you are interested in the role and company, why you are the perfect candidate, and tell the interviewer that you 'want this job'. Most applicants never make this statement; yes, it's assumed, but it makes all the difference when you say the actual words.
- Express Gratitude: Now that you've come to the conclusion of the interview, make sure to express sincere gratitude and thank the interviewer. Remember that these people are extremely busy and have a mountain of responsibility that has been paused for you.
Congratulations! You've now successfully completed a round of interviews and are on the way to your offer letter. Wait! First you must send thank you notes (handwritten or email) to all interviewers. Highlight the pleasure of the conversation, a specific key topic for each interview, and why your experience and strengths are perfect for the role. These closing steps take thoughtful consideration and elevate your brand with the audience.
I would love to hear from you regarding your tips and thoughts for successful interviewing. Also, please give me a shout if this article helps you land your next big gig! I know you can do it!
Thank you,
Damian
