The Interview Game
We all agree that interviews are a game, but you may not agree that the dumbest question asked in almost every interview is tell me about yourself.
Why is this dumb? Because if the interviewer didn't already know who you are, you wouldn't be at the interview!
Interviews are a two-way street. You are interviewing the company as much as they are interviewing you, and you may realize that you don't want to work there at all.
When I conducted interviews many years ago, I only had three questions for each candidate. The first was, why are you here? The second was, why should I hire you? And the third was, what can you do for my company?
As you read this you may think those questions are somewhat arrogant, but it resulted in my eliminating unqualified candidates quickly and not wasting time, mine and theirs.
That said, I agree that my method is not considered out of the norm so let's talk about the norm as understood by many.
The smartest way to behave on a job interview is to be prepared, professional, and authentic. Here are some tips to help you make a great impression.
Research the company Learn about the company's products, services, mission, values, and culture. This will help you understand their needs and show your enthusiasm.
Prepare your answers Think about common interview questions and practice your responses. Be ready to talk about your skills, experience, and accomplishments.
Dress professionally Dress in attire that is appropriate for the industry and company. Make sure your clothes are clean, ironed, and fit well.
Make eye contact Maintain eye contact with the interviewer during the conversation. This shows confidence, interest, and respect.
Use a firm handshake A firm handshake is a sign of confidence and professionalism. Make sure to hold it for a few seconds, but not too long.
Listen actively Pay attention to what the interviewer is saying and show that you're interested in the conversation. Nod your head, ask follow-up questions, and summarize what they've said.
Ask thoughtful questions Prepare a list of thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the company. This shows that you're interested in the position and willing to learn.
Use positive body language Sit up straight, uncross your arms, and avoid fidgeting or tapping your feet. This shows that you're engaged and interested in the conversation.
Follow up After the interview, follow up with the interviewer to ask about next steps or provide additional information that may be relevant to the position.
By following these tips, you'll be able to make a positive impression on the interviewer and increase your chances of getting hired. Remember, it's not just about what you say, but also how you say it. Confidence, professionalism, and authenticity are key to making a great impression on a job interview.
Of course, if you are the interviewer, not the interviewee, and if you prefer, you are welcome to use my method.
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