Getting an interview brings on two emotions. The first is excitement, especially if you will be interviewing for a position you really want. The second is fear; especially if the stakes are high and you really need the job.
An interview is about two parties, you and the prospective employer, getting together to see if there is a match. The process is skewed in the employer's favor, particularly now because job supply is low and demand is high. So, it's important that you use the interview as your chance to stand out and make the best impression possible.
In order to ace an interview, you have put yourself in the shoes of the employer. By understanding their thinking, and the three phases of the interview, you can do well.
Below Are The Three Important Phases Of An Interview:
Phase I: The Invitation.
If an employer thinks you can do the job, you will be brought in for an interview. Many clients say to me that they hope a perspective employer believes they can do the job. They already do, or you would not have received the invitation to interview with them.
To get to Phase I, make sure your resume matches the bullets in the job description as closely as possible. Employers are looking for a match of skills and abilities. If you have too few qualifications on your resume, you will be seen as being under-qualified. Too many, and you will be seen as overqualified or all over the place. Close matches have the best chance of being brought in.
Phase II: The Meeting.
During the interview, it's all about having your personality shine though. Jobs are won and lost based on personality. The employer is thinking the following: Do I like you? Are you normal? Will you get along with everyone else? Can you get up to speed quickly? And, will you make me look good?
Phase II is your time to show your passion, what makes you unique, to handle objections, convey how committed you are to the job, and how you will make your boss look like a star. Don't overdo it. Quiet confidence will set an employer at ease; arrogance will cost you the job.
Phase III: The Follow-Up.
After an employer interviews several people, the choice in many situations comes down to two candidates. Both can do the job well, and both are very well liked. At this point, it becomes, "Who is the best match?"
If you are hoping that an employer will see why you are the perfect candidate on their own, you have already lost the position. You have to lead them there from the start.
For example, if you are switching industries, tell the interviewer why the industries are similar. If you are going after a different job title, show how your background has prepared you for that role. If you were unable to get this across during Phase II, contact the employer and see if they will have another conversation with you before they make their decision. If never hurts to ask and they might just say yes.
The interview is simply your opportunity to make sure you come across as the best candidate for the job. If you can get through these three phases effectively, the job you want can be yours.
Comments
Posted by: Cheryl Bass
The pages on the Importance on a Interview is very imformative. I have read books and papers, but I was pleased how it broke down the help and details for you.Thank you
Posted by: Cindy OSullivan
I wrote this exact question under one of your other articles as I wasn't sure if the same people read it. I'm in the Private Banking industry and our department was recently eliminated. I've had a couple interviews which I felt went very well and have been asked back for my first 2nd interview. Not sure what to expect on this. Might I assume we will be talking more detail on exactly what is expected of me and what I can expect from the company, i.e., compensation? Or possibly other things? Thanks.
