A Good Interview & A Not-So-Good Interview…There Is a Difference

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A good interview & a not-so-good interview…there is a difference.

You have worked diligently to secure an interview for a new job.  You have made sure your appearance is that of an employee who has good cleanliness, pride in his or her appearance, and a real interest in making a good impression as the interview is conducted.

All that is well and good, but there are some things that can still end your possibility of being hired.

• Always plan enough time to be sure you are early for your interview; that way even if something goes wrong, you still have the chance to be there on time.
• Always look your best. That doesn’t mean new clothes but your clothes should be clean and presentable.  Shoes should be clean and shined if they are leather.  Your hair should be combed or at least properly in place.
• Try to learn something about the potential new employer. If they are a manufacturer, what do they make?  If they provide services to others, what kind of services?
• Even if you’re having a not-so-good day, try to put that behind you and wear a smile, and respond with answers as quickly as you can; and, if you don’t know the answer say so; or if you didn’t understand the question, say so and ask if they could rephrase or repeat the question.
• Remember that the person interviewing is human just as you are and can understand if you don’t have an answer at the tip of your tongue. Better than saying something that doesn’t make sense or simply saying nothing, you can simply say you didn’t understand the question or haven’t had experience.

You should have planned what you will say when asked why you are seeking a different job.

That is a very natural question and can make or break your chances.  Something along the lines of…”I am looking for a career opportunity where I can learn more and earn more as I prove my worth.”  Or you might indicate that you don’t feel challenged by saying, “I am seeking a position that will help me learn more and become more valuable as an employee.”

If you have a friend or a family member that you can convince to help you, you might ask them to ask you questions as if they were the company person you’d interview with so you can get accustomed to being ‘on the spot’ if that isn’t something you have done before.

Remember that the interviewer is a professional at asking questions.  Being being honest and truthful no matter the question is very important.

That being said, also be sure not to volunteer personal information that was not requested by the interviewer.    Even if a question throws you a bit before you respond, do your best, and tell the truth.   You can always tell the interviewer that you aren’t proud of that, but you have to own up to it and you have worked hard to change for the better.

Fred D’Amato,  President