August 10, 2006
Insight to Effective Interviewing
My most recent question for my panel of professionals was: When you have a job interview, what is your strategy? What tactics do you think contribute most to your success in job interviews?
• This seems like a minor point, but I always make sure to wear something really nice. If I’m overdressed, at least I send the message that I take the company seriously and want to make a good impression. Being underdressed, too casual, would definitely have a negative impact on my confidence levels. When I interviewed for my first design job just out of college, most of the employees were wearing jeans, Converse, casual tops. I went in there wearing a black power suit with a vivid purple shirt underneath. I could tell the contrast was striking and the interviewers took me seriously. In an interview, the first impression is huge. (Tracy, graphic designer)
Tracy is right on the money. If there’s ever a time to overdress, it’s at that moment of first contact. For most of us, it’s true that looking better makes you feel better and more confidence.
• I tend to get a little nervous in interviews, so I prepare very well, starting as far in advance as possible. I come up with answers to just about every question they could ask me, and I think up some good all-purpose fallback answers just in case that doesn’t cover it. This strategy has never failed me. It really helps with the interview jitters. (David, accountant)
Preparation is an enormous factor in success, in all aspects of your career. Knowing what you want and equipping yourself with strategies and ideas is a great way to stay on top of your game.
• I make an effort to stand out and show who I am and what I can contribute as an individual. I avoid formula answers and instead tell stories that are unique to me, and which also demonstrate skill and ability. I imagine what their issues might be—or, better yet, ask—and offer solutions on the spot. I give examples of how I’ve done similar work in the past and try to get them to envision my impact on the company and their day-to-day workload and problems. I have a rather visionary approach to interviews. I focus on showing how I’m going to affect the bottom line. (Lance, IT consultant)
This is exactly what you should do. Instead of talking about you, talk about how you are going to contribute unparalleled value to the company.
• While I do spend most of my time discussing the facts—my qualifications and experience—I think it’s also very important to establish a rapport. No one wants to work with someone who’s no fun to be around. I work in a few minor details to reveal something about my personality, and I make an effort to comment on interests of theirs I pick up on. (Ellen, engineer)
Ellen makes a great point. If you can get the interviewers laughing and conversing with you, you strongly influence their opinions and increase your chances of making a good impression.
• I explain my track record of success and make sure to highlight my aspirations for the future, with their company. I emphasize that I am always working to improve my performance, that I never become “comfortable” and lethargic in my professional aims. (Leslie, sales rep)
Communicating your sense of dedication to continuous improvement is a great interview strategy. The hiring managers want to know they are making a smart investment in you. A pattern of success and a commitment to future growth is highly attractive to prospective employers.
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