TIPS TO A SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW
There are a number of surveys completed each year of hiring managers to determine why job candidates fail to progress in the interview process. The following are 3 of the most common reasons:
- The candidate fails to make a good first impression
- The candidate knows little or nothing about the organization or its purpose
- The candidate cannot answer specific questions about their job history and qualifications
First Impressions
The majority of all successful candidates exhibit the same attention to detail and professionalism that creates a great first impression. A great first impression means the hiring manager will begin the interview fully engaged. Not dismiss every word you say, check his/her watch, and can’t wait to get to the next interview.
- If you remind the hiring manager of a failed employee or difficult to manage employee, you’re out
- If you display the tendencies and characteristics of successful employees, you will be highly regarded
Research
One of the most important pre-interview preparations you can complete is to research the company, its industry and how the job relates to your research. When you can demonstrate that you understand the company’s purpose, history, challenges and advantages, you can excel over more credentialed and experienced candidates.
- Most hiring manager’s primary research complaints center around the candidate’s ignorance of the organization and its purpose
- The candidate that can demonstrate he/she understands the organization and how their soft and hard skills can help the organization attain its goals, will advance through the hiring process
Resume Documents and Interviewing
A targeted cover letter and targeted resume contain nothing that does not pertain to the position, job duties, and how your credentials and experience will assist the organization in attaining its goals.
- If your resume documents are not targeted, your resume will not be taken seriously, or worse – will not be read
- A targeted cover letter and resume tells the hiring manager that you “get it” and you will be invited to interview
When interviewing, you will be asked specific questions about your job history and other information listed on your resume. You must be able to answer these questions in detail to be a viable candidate.
As you are asked questions and prepare to answer, you must understand what type of question is being asked and how to answer using the appropriate format.
- Hiring manager interview complaints include the candidate presenting negative self-adaptors, rambling commentary, speaking in generalities – not in specifics
- The successful candidate’s language and commentary demonstrate that he/she understands the organization, its purpose and how he/she will assist the organization in attaining its goals
The Interview Team builds successful employment campaigns that center around your behavioral traits and skill-sets. Get started today – discover your strengths – get hired! Contact us Today.
