Needle, Meet Haystack

Interviews might seem like the most daunting part of the job application process, but if you know how to interview well, you will almost always get an offer.  Here are 10 things that I do in every interview that have helped me get the job (or at least an offer) every time.

1. Go in with a game plan. I treat the interview more like a performance review than a job application.  In this way, I am more comfortable talking about myself and the company, and am less likely to lose focus.  Also, I try to plan out how the conversation will go (more on this in steps 7 and 8).
2. Talk to the receptionist. As I’ve said before, the receptionist (or “gatekeeper”) can give you more insight into how the company works than almost anyone else.  However, you should avoid this step if they are busy (and I mean actually busy, not playing Minesweeper).
3. Shake hands properly. I can’t stress how easy it is to mess this one up.  Practice with a friend or family member if you have to, but this one is critical.
4. Make good eye contact. Most people are bad at this one too.  Remember the focus points and that you should only be making eye contact 60% of the time.  I go into more detail about eye contact in this post.
5. Practice active listening. Always have a follow-up question to whatever your are asking or have been asked that can’t be answered in less than two sentences.  Getting your interviewer talking will make them more comfortable with you.
6. Take notes. This shows you’re organized and are paying attention to the conversation.  I write only a few major points in shorthand for later reference and so I’m not staring at my writing pad all the time.
7. Show the benefit. You should already have a plan as to what you can say would be the way in which you would benefit the organization.  Make as many points as you can to show this throughout the interview.  In addition to upping your value to the company, this also is a way to deflect the “Why should you work for us?” question.  There are some good tips on how to brag without bragging here and here.
8. Cycle back. I like to have specific stories or examples that I mention several times during interviews to illustrate the points that I’m making about my experience, how I can benefit the company, and so on.  By seeding these conversational tidbits throughout the interview, it’s easier to call back to them and remind the interviewer about what else you’ve said you can do.
9. Ask questions. NEVER go to an interview without having a few questions ready.  You can make up your own, or even flip around some questions that they might ask you, like the ones listed here.
10. Leave with a schedule. If I haven’t received a job offer due to a mandatory multi-step interview process, I make sure to set an appointment with the interviewer, and then double-check it with the secretary.  Don’t let them say “we’ll call you” or “come in next week.”  Get a specific date and time.

Interviewing might seem like going through a construction zone on the road to a job, but if you take the time to make a plan and stick to it, you’ll be cruising on the employment highway in no time!