Day 12: #BlogLikeCrazy – I Have An Interview, Now What?

As we wind down on our professional talk segment of #BlogLikeCrazy and as I prepare for my official birthday countdown, we will wonder down the lane of interviewing.

I cannot tell you how many countless times I have been completely frazzled and unprepared for an interview.

The thought of spending a solid 30-45 minutes convincing a panel of people on WHY I should be hired or considered for a particular opportunity has always caused me to spiral.

I mean, it can be an extremely intimidating situation. But, over the years, I’ve learned the importance of preparation.

With access to so much via the internet in today’s time, there is absolutely no reason we should walk into an interview unprepared.

So, as we take a quick deep dive into the topic of interviewing, my first tip to you is this.

PRACTICE.

Why, because PRACTICE builds CONFIDENCE.

You may have anticipated that I’d say practice makes perfect, but since we are an imperfect people, that is not true.

However, practice will ALWAYS build confidence.

As we discussed on yesterday, your resume serves as an appetizer (introduction) to who you are and therefore, your interview can be considered the main course.

An interview allows you the opportunity to defend the knowledge, skillset, and expertise you’ve placed on paper.

Additionally, the interview process serves as an opportunity for YOU to learn more about the company, culture, and expectations of the organization.

In short, an interview also helps you determine if the opportunity of interest is a good fit for your life.

The topic of interviewing is not the most entertaining, but it is a very beneficial conversation and skillset to have.

I have just a few important things for you to consider as you prepare for your next interview opportunity so let’s get started.

BE ON TIME: This one should be given but I’ve learned that common sense isn’t always common. If you are a serial unpunctual person, plan ahead, and leave early. I would hate for you to miss out on an amazing opportunity because you failed to properly account for your time.

BE PREPARED: Every time I think about preparation I hear this saying, “if you don’t have time to do it right, you must have time to do it over”. A lack of preparation can surely cause failure and the unnecessary step of doing it over. If the opportunity means a lot to you, as I mentioned earlier, PRACTICE.

KNOW THE COMPANY: Research the company that you will be interviewing with so that you are able to address any areas of interest and concern. Glassdoor and the company website can be great resources to learn more about the organization.

THINK FIRST, SPEAK SECOND, AND SPEAK CLEARLY: Never answer an interview question in a rush. Slow down to consider the question asked so that you can effectively process your response. When doing so, you can speak clearly and with confidence. Never be afraid to ask for the question to be repeated.

USE THE S-T-A-R FORMAT: STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Utilizing the STAR format is great for behavioral based interviews. In behavioral based interviews, you are typically asked to provide an example. The STAR format aids in providing a well throughout and detailed response.

ASK QUESTIONS: Remember, the interview is not just for the company to determine if you’re a good fit, but it is also for you to determine if the company aligns with your personal goals, morals, and beliefs. Take the proper time to ask informational based questions that show your interest in the opportunity.

FOLLOW-UP: Send a follow-up email thanking the panel, hiring manager, or recruiter for the opportunity to interview. In taking this extra step, you aid in leaving a lasting impression on the team.

Although interviews can be intimidating, they are a necessary evil to determine the caliber and character of a person or company.

Today’s segment was quick because interview conversations are straightforward.

BUT, if you want to build your confidence or have additional questions, please feel free to shoot me an email at info@keyinspires.com.

I’d love to help prepare you for your next big opportunity.

Until Next Time, #KeyInspires.