We rarely invest enough time in preparing for an interview!
If the job opportunity really matters to you then you need to give it all you’ve got. First you have to develop a compelling application. Don’t assume an interview will take place. There are some organisations that don’t interview as part of the selection process.
But for this blog, let’s assume you are being called for an interview. Lucky you!!
No doubt you are telling yourself that you suck at interviews – it’s a bit like the old school exams … my heart is racing just at the thought!
Well – you have to build a bridge and get over it – sorry to say. You also need to stop with the negative self speak! Interviews should be about bringing out the best in people – so as a panel member you end up recruiting the BEST person. Interviews are not meant to trick you – so get yourself into a positive mindset. However there is no excuse for not being prepared.
Before the interview
Do your homework – research the organisation, people on the panel (if you know who they are), and the Board Directors. All this should be available on websites or good old Google!
Use your networks – if you are on LinkedIn, see who knows about the organisation and maybe even the role that is being advertised.
Back yourself – you have made the cut from the information you provided in your application. You got this! Now make sure you assign time to preparation and practice
At the interview
Breathe!
Turn up early and dress appropriately. Your research will given you an indication of what to wear.
Shake hands (well maybe check what the protocol is now with COVID -19 and handshakes – look for the cues). Walk up to all the members on the panel and greet them the same way.
Listen carefully to the question that is being asked. Answer the question – don’t rabbit on about nothing. If you don’t understand the question, ask for clarification. “I’m sorry, I’m not sure I understand what you are asking. Could you please repeat that?” Chances are they will reframe the question and this also gives you time to unscramble your brain that is probably panicking now … You can also ask to come back to that question later if you need more time. If you truely don’t know how to respond then call it out. You will earn respect doing that, rather than looking like a fool talking about rubbish.
Where you can, use the person’s name that asked the question in your response.
Use your emotional intelligence and observational skills. Observe the dynamic of the panel and see if you can workout who has the influence or decision making authority. Listen to the titles of people when they are introduced as this will give you some insight.
After the interview
Always always always get feedback. This is how you learn and also understand why you were unsuccessful. You owe that to yourself.
Well that’s it from me. Make sure you check out my other blogs in this series and good luck with your interview. You got this!
Toodles
