Interviewing 101
Lynn HazanDo:
Arrive on time.
Establish rapport to be called back for a second interview.
Demonstrate by word and deed you’re fit for the position.
Project a professional image. Dress appropriately. In these more conservative times, it's better to dress more conservatively, at least for the first interview.
Go in prepared. Do your background research, including Internet, newspaper, etc. about the company, products, and services.
Reflect on ways you could contribute to the company. Be concrete and use examples based on past history and contributions to current/previous company.
Be engaging. Let your enthusiasm and interest for the job shine through. Clients don't hire wooden boxes.
Use action verbs and appeal to the senses.
If you were part of a team effort, acknowledge the team's contribution. If your achievement was your contribution, let the interviewer know (without bragging).
Have fun and relax. If you are tense, you'll be seen as rigid and uncomfortable. Breathe deeply before you start the interview and center yourself.
Debrief immediately with your consultant (if you are being represented). Your thoughts and feedback will be helpful to the consultant in his/her communications with the client, and can help influence decisions.
- Send a thank you letter within 24 hours. This demonstrates your interest, attention to detail and another opportunity to market yourself. Reference key points covered during the interview and why you would be the perfect fit.
Don't
Oversell yourself. There's a time to sell yourself and your credentials. Watch for cues and clues when the discussion turns to the job opening and its challenges/opportunities.
Undersell yourself. This is not the place to be modest. Make sure you can draw attention to specific accomplishments, and quantify and qualify them.
Use jest or humor to joke about your potential employer's products, services or employees. The hiring manager is an extension of the company's brand. He/she is proud to work for the company. Why take pot shots? You want to rise to the top, not stoop to the lowest denominator.
Be arrogant or haughty.
Talk badly of previous employers, employees or companies. It will come back to haunt you.
Tell lies. Be honest. It's the best policy. If you have something to hide, the future employer will find out.
Interview in a monotone voice. It's boring and puts people to sleep. Modulate your voice and use inflection. Smiling helps too. Practice in front of a mirror. Would you want to interview yourself?
Take anything for granted or make assumptions. You have to earn the trust of the interviewer to be asked back.
