The Hurdles of the job interview
When writing about the dreaded job interview the old cliché of “fail to prepare, prepare to fail” should always be the key message to get across.
People often go in unprepared and don’t understand how or why they’ve missed out on obtaining an offer. Preparation is key. Much like an athlete, most of the work is done before the main event. I’ve always been a fan of the hurdles and to say there are obstacles to overcome here would be literal but true.
When you consider someone like Sally Pearson; she goes in prepared, starts strong and finishes strong. She’s out of the blocks on the ‘B of the Bang’ and has mastered the “dip” – the technique of leaning forward at the finishing line.
The race preparation, confidence and momentum from a quick start and knowing she can close the deal with the ‘dip’ has made her one of Australia’s greatest athletes.
Your “pre-race” preparation
Research the company – have they made any announcements in the press?
Know the elements of the job and know what the company is doing within the marketplace.
Know the people you’re meeting with. Look up all relevant individuals using www.LinkedIn.com. Make a mental note of any synergies between yourself and these people and use this information if the opportunity arises. It doesn’t come across as stalker-like. It shows you’re thorough and serious.
Have at least five questions prepared of which you will ask one or two at the end. Examples – Career progression opportunities, 5 year plan of the company, current rate of staff turnover. Do not ask about hours of work, salary, holiday entitlements or anything self-indulgent.
Do they have a Position Description? If so, ask for a copy in advance and scrutinize it and think of a situational example of how you have carried out each required task. These will represent the body of the interview of which you will drive. A simple yes or no does not build confidence in the interviewer. I know the role requires……, I can do …… and previously did this within this role and the successful outcome of me carrying out that task was …….
“The B of the Bang”
Start strong and stay calm. Arrive before time to ensure you’re relaxed and ready to go.
Stand and greet them with a smile and offer a firm handshake.
Once underway, bring out your recent and relative key achievements within the questions that you’re asked. There is nothing worse than interviewing someone and trying to encourage them to sell themselves and get them talking. Your answers with situational examples will naturally flow if you have prepared well.
The “dip”
At the end of the interview, ask your pre-prepared questions, having made a mental note of which answers haven’t already been covered.
Thank them for their time and be sure to let them know if you’re interested within your closing statements – Calm enthusiasm rather than desperation.
Detailed preparation is the key factor. Just like athletes it’s the repetitive, drab, time consuming part that has to happen before the race.
The interviewer’s first and last impression will decide the close calls so start well, use your preparation to get over the hurdles and finish with a well-timed dip.