Getting a Job – The Goal of the Interview

Most people approach an interview the same way they approach a purchase. They want to ask, “Is this what I’m looking for?  Is it my best option?  Am I going to be happy about this later?”

This is perfectly natural and correct when the time is right.  Unfortunately, prior to the interview, you have not yet reached that point.  In this case, your “product” must decide it likes you first, and then the decision is all yours.

Your objective in the interview is not to evaluate the opportunity for yourself, but to continue the process until an offer is made.  Once you have gained that leverage, the decision is yours to make and you can ask any question you like.  Get the ball in your court.  Indeed, many are surprised to learn that the goal of the interview is to receive the offer.

• Your interviewer’s main objective is to narrow the applicant pool to one person – the person who receives the offer.  You do not want to give them a reason to screen you out.
• Your focus will need to be geared toward what you can do for the company, not what the company can do for you.
• Postpone judgment until the interview process is over.  Many doom their chances before they walk in by making assumptions that prove incorrect.
• There is a huge difference between “confident” and “arrogant”.

“With staff reductions in companies across all industries, there are more talented candidates than ever looking for positions. It is more crucial than ever to do everything you can to show a desired employer that you are the right person for the job. Interviews are perhaps the single most important part of the hiring process, so these are some helpful tips that should help you make a fantastic impression on your next interview.”
– Senior Candidate Consultant

INTERVIEW “BLOOPERS”

Take a moment to read some of the most common reasons a candidate is passed over by an interviewer:

• Lack enthusiasm / disinterested
• Too focused on money
• Trashing past employers
• Failure to make eye contact
• Limp, fishy handshake
• Late to the interview
• Asks no questions about the job
• Sloppy appearance
• Indefinite response to questions
• Overbearing, over-aggressive, conceited “know-it-all” attitude
• Inability to express oneself clearly
• Lack of direction in career
• Lack of confidence
• Lack of manners
• Indecision
• Merely shopping around
• Cynical
• Low moral standards
• Lazy
• Intolerant
• Inability to take criticism

These can all be avoided with an “attitude” check prior to the interview – don’t be screened out for making these mistakes.

Next Steps

While a lot more goes into being accepted into your dream position, we hope the above tips will help you make a great impression at the interview. If you have any questions on your particular situation and how you can best position yourself, feel free to call us or email us through our website at www.addisongroup.com. We look forward to working with you on your job search!