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Going from finding a job opening, applying, interviewing, to the job offer can be a lengthy process. For some with the right resume, they get through the first few steps with ease, but when it comes to the job interview, things often come to a halt.
The challenge many jobseekers face is presenting themselves in-person as impressively as they have on paper.
Here’s what you need to consider when going through the job interview.
1. Are you connecting with the interviewer?
The right candidate with the right experience and skills also needs to form the right connection. That connection happens when there is a mutual feeling of respect and comfort talking with one another and there’s a sense of understanding in one another. This connection is formed when you find things in common. It may be that you both attended the same college, know the same contacts, or have gone through similar professional experiences. People hire people they like, so if it comes down to you and another candidate with impressive skills and experience for the job, the next thing that’s looked at is who would they like to have around.
2. Are you demonstrating you have what it takes to do the job?
Employers don’t take your word on everything you have written on the resume. When it comes to the interview, you need to demonstrate you have the experience and skills. Have case examples available to refer to in order to demonstrate you’ve succeeded in similar scenarios – it’s the best proof because you’re informing them that you’ve been there and done that, and that you took specific actions that brought the positive results.
3. Are you showing you’re engaged?
Your body language can speak louder than your words. When you are smiling, leaning forward to exhibit you’re listening carefully, and asking relevant questions to discussion points, it’s informing the employer you are engaged and interested. On the other hand, if you are sitting with your arms across your chest, holding a stiff facial expression, and don’t have any questions to ask, it gives off the impression that you are not interested.
Presenting yourself on paper and in-person are two totally different things. Learn to break through the job interview as you’ve accomplished breaking through on paper!
