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Staging A Great Interview

reprinted from Net Temps

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Staging Great Interviews: Eight Ideas for Improving Candidate Success

Be prepared, not surprised

Hiring managers are often surprised at how unprepared many people are for some of the most typical interview questions. Take the time to practice some sample questions to help them prepare prior to the interview. These could include common ones, such as: "Tell me about yourself;" "Why are you exploring a job change?"; and "What are your short and long-term goals?"

Avoid the political approach

Politicians are often accused of not answering a question completely. The same is also said of some people in interviews. Hiring managers are not only looking for the answer to a question asked, but are also using this to assess the listening skills of candidates. With this in mind, pay careful attention to what the interviewer says and what is being asked.

Great questions can land you the job

Dianne, a hiring manager, shared, "I have hired more than one person because of the thoughtfulness of the questions they asked me. I think one of my all-time favorites is, 'What could I show or tell you right now that would convince you that I am the one for the job?' I never told him this, but at that moment the job was his—and he still works in my department six years later." Create a list of 10 or more provocative questions that you would like answered during the interview.

You do your job, and I’ll do mine

Avoid asking "what can you do for me?" questions, especially in the first interview. These include questions regarding salary, benefits, bonuses, and vacation time. Remember, the Renascent Group is the negotiator and will handle all of these details for you.

It’s what you know to avoid a NO

Employers are often frustrated when a candidate knows little or nothing about the company for which they are applying. Learn as much as possible about the company where you are interviewing. This includes details about the job or assignment, the organizational structure, and the products or services delivered by the company. Visit the company’s website and review any materials provided by the recruiter regarding the company profile and job description.

Being "suited" for the position

The appearance of individuals attending interviews needs to be appropriate and professional. Candidates should be dressed in business attire for interviews, regardless of the level of the position. For men, this includes a pressed shirt and tie or, even better, a suit. For women, the recommended attire includes a business suit or dress in a conservative color.

The early bird gets the job

Being on time is no longer the standard. Managers take special note when candidates arrive promptly for the interview. Arriving ten to fifteen minutes early sends a message of strong interest and professionalism.

Say NO to negative remarks

Negative comments leave a negative impression, even when those comments are accurate. Never make disparaging remarks about current or previous employers, managers, or co-workers. Remember, “if you can’t say anything nice, it’s better to say nothing at all!"

Through some planning and deliberate effort, you can be confident that you are prepared for the interview. By taking the proactive steps outlined above, you have an opportunity to distinguish yourself from your competitors. These skills will give you the ability to improve your career, get back to work, or transition from an undesirable employment situation to a better one.