Monday, June 15, 2009

How to prepare for an interview

The success of your interview will depend largely on your ability to discover needs and empathize with the interviewer. You can do this by asking questions that verify your understanding of what the interviewer has just said, without editorializing or expressing an opinion. By establishing empathy in this manner, you’ll be in a better position to freely exchange ideas, and demonstrate your suitability for the job.

1) Enthusiasm - Leave no doubt as to your level of interest in the job. You may think it’s unnecessary to do this, but employers often choose the more enthusiastic candidate in the case of a two-way tie. Besides, it’s best to keep your options open. Would you not rather be in a position to turn down an offer, than have a prospective job evaporate from your grasp by giving a lethargic interview?

2) Technical Interest - Employers look for people who love what they do, and get excited at the prospect of attacking the nuts and bolts of the job.

3) Confidence - No one likes a braggart, but the candidate who’s sure of his or her abilities will almost certainly be more favorably received.

4) Intensity - The last thing you want to do is come across as ‘flat’ in your interview. There’s nothing inherently wrong with being a laid-back person; but sleepwalkers rarely get hired.

By the way, most employers are aware of how stressful it can be to interview for a new position, and will do everything they can to put you at ease.

Xodus Advantage serves as expert partners to individuals from the time they contemplate a potential career/job change, through the planning and transition phases. We specialize in making the change process positive and practical by empowering the individual to excel in their job campaign strategies. We are committed to seeing a successful career transition.When individuals find themselves on the job market or interested in a career transition, they are typically very uncertain. It is always nice to offer them the “voice of calm” plus real-world practical strategies to accelerate their down time during the transition.

For a free 30 minute consultation, please contact:
Lori Harbeck - lori@xodusadvantage.com
Janet Blumen - janet@xodusadvantage.com