Welcome to our candidate focused weekly blog. This week we are focused on the interview, how to prep for it and what to do afterward.
Never Assume:
- Ever walked out of an interview feeling like you got the job, but then didn’t hear back? Assuming the worst is the last thing you want to do. Companies work on different timelines than candidates and can have various reasons for a delay. [AOL Jobs]
Prep Work:
- In this day and age, it’s important to prepare for oddball questions and interview curveballs. Helpful prep tips include: sharing ideas that can be implemented right away, trading the fluff for straight-forward conversation and gaining first hand experience with a company’s product. And while you’re at it, make sure that you prepare relevant stories of moments where you persevered. For example, write down real-life examples that can answer the following question: “Can you tell me about a time when you almost gave up, how you felt about that, and what you did instead?” [Mashable & INC]
- Speaking of questions, make sure you ask your own. For example, “Why wouldn’t I want to work here,” is just one of 12 questions that top business leaders wish candidates would ask during their interview. Coming up with unique questions like this shows your desire to learn more about a company and what makes it tick. [Brazen Life]
- Because your boss can “make or break” your success, it’s best to find out as much as you can about him or her prior to accepting a job opportunity. Don’t be afraid to research your potential boss ahead of time on social media or ask them questions during your interview. You want to walk out of there armed with enough information that you can make an educated decision should an offer come your way. [Fast Company]
Connect On A Personal Level:
- Don’t be afraid to waive your “freak flag.” Allowing your personality or interests to peek through (within reason, of course) can help separate you from the pack. This separation gives you an edge that will help you stand out in an employer’s mind. [Careerealism]
- Letting your personality shine through doesn’t mean forgetting fashion do’s and don’ts. Because the decision to hire is often made within the first 5 minutes of an interview, it’s important that you avoid common fashion don’ts. [Careerealism & Career Bliss]
Phone Interviews:
- One of the biggest mistakes you can make during a phone interview is not managing your “tone.” Since interviewers don’t have anything else to go by except how you sound, you need to make sure your voice portrays enthusiasm, interest, confidence and energy. [Forbes]
Now That You Are Finished:
- After the interview, it’s important to stay at the forefront of the hiring manager’s mind. Here are five tips to do that: take initiative, read between the lines, gauge the employer’s attitude, float around the chain of command and keep the employer informed. [Glassdoor]
Just For Fun:
- Ever been late for an interview? What was your excuse? Here are the ultimate worst excuses for being late to an interview. [Undercover Recruiter]
Did you find this post helpful? What would you like to see more of in future posts?
