interview-skills

by Ross Macpherson

I'm always surprised by how people approach interviews. Many of my clients have sent out their professionally prepared resumes, been called for an interview, and then walk in armed with only the very rudimentary of interview skills and at best HOPE that the interview goes well. With advanced interviewing skills, you are assured that the interviewer knows exactly what you have to offer and how you can contribute to their company. Simply combing your hair, popping a few breath mints, and wearing your best power suit will not be enough if you want to stand out as the best candidate.

This is THE fundamental step to interview success. The fact is, many people give more thought to what they're cooking for dinner than they do to preparing for a job interview. Do the research, know yourself, and PREPARE to go in there and knock their socks off. Otherwise, you're merely HOPING they like you.

Strategize

An often-overlooked component of proper interview preparation is the assembly of a strategy, a plan of action. Anticipate the types of questions they may ask and formulate how you're going to respond (this holds true especially for any sticky spots in your career - assume that they will ask).

Practice

Merely thinking about what you'll say in the interview is simply not going to cut it - that is, unless you're a natural speaker. However, for the rest of us, we have to practice our answers - ALOUD! Get accustomed to talking aloud about yourself and your achievements, and if you can enlist the help of a professional, or even a friend or spouse, even better still.

Employers only hire when they have a problem that they want to solve or some goal they want to accomplish, otherwise they wouldn't need to hire anyone. If you can find out what this is, or at least anticipate what it might be, then you have a distinct advantage and can sell yourself accordingly.

The truth is, few interviews go exactly as planned and not all hiring managers are professional interviewers. Many people I've spoken to have neglected to sell their best features in an interview simply because, and I quote, "They never asked me about that." If they don't specifically ask for certain important information, make certain you find the opportunity to tell them anyway. Ideally, you should be able to walk out of the interview knowing that the interviewer heard all that you can offer, whether they specifically asked for it or not (if you're really good at it, you can make the interviewer look like a pro in the process).

Job interviews don't have to be frightening and uncomfortable experiences, and you do not necessarily have to take a purely passive position. With the right skills under your belt, you can stand head and shoulders above your competition, and even enjoy the interview along the way!