Create an advantage before the job interview even starts
Did you know that it is possible to take control and create a personal competitive advantage over other candidates who are interviewing for the same job that you are interested in landing?
Consider yourself “onstage” from the minute you arrive at a place of business for a job interview. If there is any waiting time before you meet the interviewer, make good use of that time and act as if the interview has already begun. Your posture, how you carry yourself and what you say to others in the office might be relayed to the person who is doing the hiring. And yes, these pre-interview actions can make or break your opportunity.
Your physical demeanor sends a message to those around you. Walk with confidence, but not with an arrogant swagger. Keep in mind that making casual eye contact with everyone you speak with is respectful — and remember, a friendly smile acts as a neutralizer. These habits can possibly make a significant difference in the outcome of your interview.
Mentally, be prepared to answer any questions — even one as simple as “How are you today?” Don’t use “cool” or routine responses such as OK, not bad, good, fine, etc. A confident “Terrific, and how about you?” is a solid example of a great answer to a basic question. This type of response can result in you being viewed as a person who has a positive attitude and a caring demeanor. Practice, and be ready to answer the “how are you?” greeting to your best advantage.
Should you be seated to wait in a common waiting area, look for opportunities to create positive interaction with others. Don’t be unprofessional or a nuisance — but be friendly. The person you talk to beforehand could turn out to be the interviewer or another key player in the organization.
Your behavior should position you as a person who would be a positive influence in the workplace.
Most hiring managers are looking for people they’d like to have on their own team or would be a good fit within their establishment. Let your interactions before the interview work in your favor. For instance, if you have a positive conversation with one of the business’s customers, it could lead that customer to tell someone at the company that you would be a great addition to the team.
In a nutshell, you will never regret being positive and nice.
— Gary Moore is president of Insight Edge, a company that offers executive search services, personality-based hiring tools and interview, leadership, communication and staff-development programs. Visit www.insightedge.com, or email garymoore@insightedge.com.