We are excited to welcome back our valued Search Director, Vanessa Dennis, after being away on maternity leave! She has put together a 2 minute video describing some of the most helpful interview tips that she has come across in her job coaching.
#1: Be Interested, Not Interesting!
Be genuinely curious about them, ask them questions about what they have going on and who they are versus touting how great and interesting you are. If you are nonchalant to start the interview, that will be their first impression of you (and it can be difficult to reverse this). If applicable, going into the interview, come up with ways you think you can help improve/add value to this company and bring it up if/when you think it’s applicable.
#2: Do your homework.
Research the group, read recent news releases about the group and prepare multiple questions to ask the interviewer about themselves and their company. Here is good example of a question to ask:
“Thank you very much for meeting with me today. I am somewhat familiar with Company X and your great reputation. I’ve had a chance to look at your website and have read about your latest achievements (be specific). How is that going and how did you guys accomplish that?”
#3: Show enthusiasm and energy.
It is quite common that the most qualified individual will not to be offered the job because they do not covey the enthusiasm, excitement, or sense of urgency that group is looking for. Leave the interview conveying strong desire, energy, and enthusiasm to work for that group.
#4: Stay on Point!
○ Stay on point! Understand their problem (why they are looking for someone new) and what they really want in a new hire. Show them that you are the solution.
○ Be thorough in your answers, but word them concisely. 1-2 minute answers are ideal. Stay on topic with relevant conversation. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer.