A company schedules an interview only if they know (or has a strong comfort level) that you can do the job. Their intention is to make a hire. Therefore, when you are in front of the employer, make the best of the interview. Gone are the days of just hiring someone who is breathing!
Your resume is a sales document, that’s it. Your resume determines your CAN DO, but, ultimately, the interview determines your WILL DO.
Job Fit Focus
In most job interviews today, candidates spend 80% of their time answering behavioural questions. Interviewers will also focus on attitudes, skills and abilities to ensure that they fit the job and organization. No longer is it just technical questions about your experience.
Expect situational questions, therefore, about skills, personality and attitude. Companies know you can teach the technical aspects of a job but, they truly seek to discover your attitudes. Flexibility, willingness to change and level of responsibility are important. The company knows exactly what ‘type’ of person they want to hire – but are you that type?
Behavioural interviewing is popular. As many believe the most accurate predictor of your future performance is how you have performed historically in similar situations. A competent interviewer knows what is required for your success in the job. They then create situational questions to uncover your profile in the relevant areas.
Help the Company!
It is the interviewer’s job, first of all, to fully understand your background. It is your job to make sure they do. They want to match your experience, skills and personality to the job description and, likewise, the company. Both of you seek job-fit.
Certainly, the only way the interviewer will understand your background is by your responses to the questions posed. Remember the interview as an information give-and-take process, this two-way communication is NOT a power struggle.
You must decide what your chief skills or strengths are. Be prepared to give concrete and defendable examples. Include dates, names, numbers to convey the reality. Be sure to know the job description for which you are interviewing. Jot down specific actions and behaviours that address those responsibilities.
You have no idea how many people are being considered for the role. Who knows how many times they have asked candidates the same questions? Your interviewer may even think they asked you something they haven’t. They are human! If overlooked, make sure to address your chief skills and strengths during your final statements. Don’t miss out on showing yourself as their best hire option.
Don’t walk away from the discussion without representing yourself fully, you will regret it. Even when you did get a chance to represent yourself well during the chat – reiterate it during your closing. Help the employer know why you are their best choice for hire.
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