Did you know the unemployment rate is between 2-4% in many parts of the country? This is forcing many to consider a potential career transition. With this interesting dynamic in hiring, we are given the opportunity to reassess interview time. We are all busier than ever and time is becoming more and more valuable. Let’s simplify the interview approach by getting back to the basics. Here are a few ideas to have you reach your interview time’s full potential. But first, a little disclaimer: every role, hiring manager, and person are different. Give yourself the opportunity to consider what is going to work for your style.
Preparation
It’s not just about researching the company. At CorTalent, it is important for us to understand who you are meeting with and their relationship with the position you’re interviewing for. Everyone has a different perspective, so anticipate their motives behind the questions they ask. Using this to guide your conversation allows you to get to know your audience, the type of people the company employs, and how you might fit in.
Be Curious
Do your best to ask questions throughout the interview process so you’re not overwhelmed toward the end of the interview. When you ask questions, it comes off to the interviewer as if you already have the job and you’re getting the information you need to know. It also shows the interviewers you are already applying your listening skills and will likely pick up things quickly. Check out this Forbes article which offers the company perspective on hiring for curiosity. Ask questions that show your expertise but open it up for a healthy dialogue.
Use the STAR method
If you haven’t heard about the STAR method, you’re interviewing skills are going to rise to the next level here. Start by pulling together specific examples that are transferrable to the position you are interviewing for. Take the scenario and build it into a story. When you’re asked a question in an interview, break apart the example.
S – Situation – Explain (on a high level) the scenario so they can relate.
T – Task – What was asked of you or what did you take on yourself?
A – Action – Your go-to-action plan
R – Results – Explain the outcome
Make it easier on yourself and your audience by having a few examples already prepared. Businesses want people who can simplify complex situations and can bring incredible results. Tying your response back to how you contributed to specific results will keep them thinking of you.
Prioritize
If the interview is going well, don’t be surprised if the last few minutes feel like a scramble. What information do you still need to decide if this is the right opportunity and company for you? In the event you didn’t get your questions answered throughout the interview, jot some down throughout the interview or stick to some staples to ensure you get the answers you need. Here’s a few of our favorites…
- What drew you to the organization and why do you stay?
- What will this individual have accomplished in one year that will make you certain you’ve made a good hire?
- Who will the individual communicate with on a regular basis?
- What concerns do you have regarding my candidacy?
- What will next steps look like?
There’s a balance between building rapport and marketing your skill set. The interview process can be hard for many people. By simplifying the interview process, you’ll come out on the other side confident in the next steps. Stand out from the crowd and show your true expertise and land that dream job. Happy interviewing!
Blog Post Date: 25 September 2018
