Most people come to a job interview with two strikes against them: they are not adequately prepared; they are nervous and off balance because this is not a process with which they have had much experience.
Typically, here is what most candidates do to prepare:
- Read the position summary
- Review the employer’s web site
- Picking out the outfit they plan to wear, and
- Planning to arrive on time.
“That is weak, which may explain why so many executives and managers really do not interview that well.”
John G. Self
That is weak, which may explain why so many executives and managers really do not interview that well.
In addition to the basics, applicants must do these four things to steady themselves and to be competitive:
- Do a deep research dive on the company.
- Use the job summary to anticipate questions you may be asked.
- Develop examples to highlight your successes
- Rehearse your answers, including answers to those questions you hope they do not ask.
Interviewing is not that hard, but it does require you to do your homework to ensure you are confident and persuasive.