Interviews are both an art and a science.
Success boils down to:
Preparation, first impressions, Q&A and finishing strong.
Let's look into part 4 of 4 finishing strong and top tips for proactive job seekers.
You're confident you've made a good impression. There's talk of the next stage, rapport and laughing. It's about as picture perfect as an interview can be.
Watch out! Complacency at this point in the process kills job offers.
It's very easy to think 'phew, thank god it's over'. It's natural after all that hard work and nervous clock watching. However, if you're still in the presence of your interviewer you're still being assessed. Have you considered your interview technique at this point in the process? Have you chosen your mindset and set your intention?
Energy
- Successful people know how to self manage for peak performance. It requires self reflection and practical strategies.
- Interviews are tough and can be both energy boosting and energy draining at different points. What can you do before, during and after an interview to fully charge your batteries?
- Set your intention before each interview and let that be your anchor throughout the meeting.
- What's your current mindset and does it serve you?
- If you have a tight schedule and lots of interviews be aware of 'interview fatigue' and don't gloss over it. It's far better to deal with it than to plough on ticking boxes but under performing.
Top tip: go to your calendar now and book an appointment with yourself. Use this time to do something totally unrelated to your job search that feeds your soul.
Closing the interview
- If you identify a niggling doubt (yours or theirs) as the interview draws to a close, address it when you're given the opportunity to ask questions.
- If you sense a lingering concern but can't put your finger on it. It's perfectly acceptable to ask if any of your responses require further details or clarification.
- Subtly enquire about objections "Is there anything that might prevent me from being shortlisted for the next stage / selected for the role?"
- Express interest in the position, re-iterate why you want the job and where you see yourself adding value.
Top tip: listen to your gut instinct at this stage and be guided by it.
Leave on a high note
- Don't forget to thank the interviewer for their time.
- Maintain your professional interview filter during the final pleasantries.
- That big smile, good posture, positive entrance and self awareness should be exactly the same on the way out as it was on the way in.
- Be cautious about talking on your phone as you're leaving, you never know who might be listening.
Top tip: be confident, appreciative and positive.
Post interview
- When you've left the vicinity, call your Recruitment Consultant to give feedback (if you used an agency). It's better to call while everything is fresh in your mind. If you're pro-active and responsive you'll come across as reliable and professional.
- Give honest feedback and if you have concerns don't be afraid to voice them. It's important to get answers to your questions at this stage so you can make a fully informed choice.
- It's a good idea to make a few notes. If you feel you could have offered a better answer to a question, write it down so it doesn't catch you out next time. Interview memory fades quickly and it's frustrating when you can't remember these things later on.
Top tip: It's best not to post anything about your interview on social media.
That's a wrap folks!
Thank you for taking the time to read the interview alchemy series.
I hope you took away some empowering insights and felt supported from start to finish.
If you have questions, a story or feedback I'd love to hear from you.
If you'd like to find out about 1-to-1 career change & development programmes, or coaching for your team/organisation get in touch bev@aumida.com or click here to book a call.
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