I've Got an Interview! – Part II
I’ve Got An Interview! Now What?
(Please see previous post for Part I)
Let’s take a look at the actual interview. What is going on during an interview? By the time you meet, the recruiter has already looked at your resume, they know what you’ve done and your successes, so what’s this whole meeting about anyway?
In a nutshell, this is what is going on: The interviewer is trying to find the best person to suit the company’s needs, obviously what you wrote in your resume shows you might fit the bill. They want to be sure you can do the tasks assigned to you, that you will be at work on time and regularly, that you will do the work and not goof off, that you will fit in with the rest of the workers and that you will do all this for the pay they wish to give.
You, the applicant, are trying to find out if you can do the work, that you want to work in the environment provided and at the pace required, that the other workers are people with whom you would like to spend so many hours per week and all this is at the pay you are willing to accept.
In order for each to determine if this can be worked out, a formal dance, called an interview is held. Your part is to arrive on time, dressed appropriately for the position, sit up straight, look the interviewer in the eye, remain positive and answer questions honestly. Toward the end of the meeting, ask a few questions about the company or clarify the job description and you’ve basically completed your part.
The reality is that this “dance” is usually over within the first few minutes, although it may continue on for much longer. Within the first few minutes of meeting, the interviewer has sized you up and made a decision, if not consciously, at least at the subconscious level. You have done the same of the interviewer and the company. The rest is merely an exchange of basic information.
So, if what I have said is in fact true, how do you realize your dream and secure the position? The answer is knowledge. Having information and knowledge is your power and will give you the confidence needed to make a good impression from the start. If you have done your research as described in my last post, you will already have a good idea if this is company is a good fit for you. Confidence goes a long way in projecting a good impression. If also will help to calm your nerves so you may speak easier and be able to think more clearly under pressure.
If you are able to answer to all of the interviewer’s needs described above better than any other prospect and do so with confidence, you will definitely ace the interview.
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Lesley V. Ingves
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