The competition in today’s job market can be rough. A stellar resume isn’t enough to land the job. You must take every opportunity to stand out in a job interview for all the right reasons. Here are some tips to help make a lasting, positive impression on your next interview.
One: Research Your Interviewers
Spend some time researching the people who will be interviewing you. Learn their background, interests, experience and current positions. Look for any detail you can use to make a personal connection, like a shared hometown or a favorite sports team, etc. Even better, look for shared professional connections to help build trust and rapport.
Two: Do you Homework On The Company
Failing to do basic research about the organization will put you on the fast track to rejection. However, going above and beyond can help you stand out for all the right reasons. Show that you can anticipate both the challenges and opportunities that the company may experience down the line.
Three: Know and Understand Their Products and Services
Take the time to learn about – and if possible to use – the organization’s products and services. This shows that you are a serious candidate and are truly interested in what the company does.
Four: Learn Their Competitors
It is expected that you will take the time to research the company you’re interviewing with, but go a step beyond and research their competitors.
Five: Quantify Success
Every candidate that comes through the door will make claims about their success, but you can stand out by quantifying yours with hard data and numbers. Just make sure that your old bosses will back you up on your claims.
Six: Bring Solutions To The Table
Companies are always striving to increase revenue, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. If you can demonstrate how you can help them do one, two or all of those things, you will stand out from the pack.
Seven: Ask Great Questions
Every candidate asks about salary and benefits. Many ask things like “why did you decide to work here.” But few ask thoughtful, tailored questions that demonstrate their interest in the position. Come to every interview armed with questions that go beyond the norm to make a positive impression.
Eight: Admit Your Weaknesses
You don’t want to focus too much on your weaknesses, but honesty can be refreshing for hiring managers. If you lack a skill don’t lie or spin your answer. Be upfront. Say something like “I am not an expert in that platform, but I have used it in the past. However, I’m a fast learner and I have no doubt I could pick up the skills quickly.” Hiring managers know that skills can be taught.
Nine: Follow Up
Follow up every time with a handwritten, tailored note to each interviewer. Candidates often skip this step. It doesn’t take much time, and when it comes time to evaluate candidates, you don’t want to be the person who didn’t take the time to say thank you.
Ten: Work With A Professional
Mastering the art of the interview takes time and practice. A professional recruiter will work closely with you to ensure you communicate effectively and make a strong impression. They will also offer constructive feedback on your interview skills to help you improve. If you are ready to accelerate your job search, reach out to the recruiting experts at CSS today.