Let’s face it, competition for jobs is about as fierce as it gets these days. As we slowly climb out of recessionary times, open positions across many industries are scarce, and employers are faced with the burden of having to wade through increasing volumes of candidates. Those who are fortunate enough to land interview opportunities need to make the most of them.
So what can you do to separate yourself from the pack during the interview process? Well, the job search experts at Kavaliro have assembled a few key points to remember that just might mean the difference between landing the job that you covet and having to continue your search. Let’s take a look:
- Be engaging.
- Look the part.
- Ask questions.
- Be authentic.
Smile. Show some personality. Embrace the conversation rather than just going through the motions. Be energetic without coming across as frantic. You are interviewing for the chance to form a long-term working relationship with someone. Give the impression right from the start that you are someone that they would want to spend 40+ hours a week with.
We’re not just talking about your dress here, though that is a big part of it. Be confident in your posture and mannerisms. Look the interviewer in the eye when you speak to one another. You want to show this person that you are more than capable of representing them in a positive light with clients and associates. Oh and by all means, leave the smart phone in the car.....a simple leather portfolio should do the trick.
Interviews are a two-way street. You’re feeling out the company just as they are you. Though you’ve surely done a good amount of research prior to the interview, you can’t possibly know everything that you need to know about the position without asking a few thoughtful questions. And no, “how much does the position pay” should not be the first inquisitive words that you utter.
You want to paint yourself in the best possible light, but don’t project yourself as something that you are not just to land the job. If you have to reach too far out of your comfort zone to give the answer that you think they want to hear, you’re doing yourself and the interviewer an injustice. Let your guard down a little, and don’t be afraid to judiciously show a flaw or two (we all have them).
Though this is by no means a comprehensive list of suggested interview protocol, these four points should put you in the right mindset to make your interview experience stand out in the mind of your potential employer.....and standing out is the name of the game.
As always, the staffing professionals at Kavaliro are here to help. We encourage your interview questions via the comment section below. We also implore you to visit our job portal to help you in your search.