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Even a well-rehearsed job candidate knows they can’t create the chemistry? It’s either there or it’s not. Regardless of what you demonstrate in skills and abilities, if you “wow” them to get the job, you’re destined to repeat that performance for the long-term. No one is that good of an actor. Be yourself.
Preparation must include a clear knowledge of your own job history to be able to answer questions that emphasize your strengths and demonstrate where you excelled in past scenarios, e.g., “What was an experience you had leading or managing others on a new project?” “When I was at Samson, Inc., I recognized the need for a new employee handbook and organized and led a 10-person think-tank group to revise it. Our employee recidivism rate was the lowest it had ever been for the next seven years I was with them.”
Use your mirror at home to watch your body language and practice smooth movements. Tape record your voice and listen to your vocal quality. Nearly everyone is nervous at job interviews. Practicing how you present yourself will help you look and sound your best. At the interview, take deep silent breaths to stay calm and centered in your body.
By the time you’ve made it to the interview they know you have the qualifications. They’ve already scrutinized your resume and likely even had a phone conversation with you. At this point it’s really to see if the chemistry is good. If your interviewer doesn’t have an easy opening and closing line, you should. First and last impressions are memorable. Have them get a feel for who you are, yet divulge nothing that is too personal. A good opener is often about the company itself, whereas mentioning traffic, the weather or the family photos on your interviewer’s desk, are over-used.
Ideal job candidates are assertive in an interview, straightforward and authentic. They model a balanced personality, with behavior that is calm, but show they are able to take charge and be effective.
Look for ways to demonstrate the benefit you will bring to the company and not simply talk about what you’ve done before. The interviewer will think, “This is someone who is able to instill confidence in those around them.” Later you will have a chance to prove them right with your work style and pleasant demeanor. Be open and yet unattached. Someone who is desperate for work or to be recognized by getting the offer will drive that offer in the opposite direction.
Go into the interview with an expectation of what you want and know what you have to have for it to be an acceptable job for you. If getting continuing education is an important aspect of that job, weigh the pros and cons. If it’s more important to work with these people and do this kind of work, then perhaps not getting school thrown in as a benefit or that extra week of vacation is the tradeoff. At the same time, don’t compromise too quickly, but always lead with your bottom line. In this way, what you agree to will be truly satisfying for you both.
Laurie A. Sheppard is a master certified Life Coach and Career Strategist to mid-level professional women and women entrepreneurs who want to make quality career and personal changes.
Ready to change your life? Contact Laurie at info@creatingatwill.com or call her at 310-645-2874. Sign up to receive monthly career tips
c. 2005, 2006 This article is free to publish in its entirety, with a courtesy email to info@creatingatwill.com
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