Interview Success
I’ve never read a tips sheet, had coaching, or read a book on how to succeed at job interviews. So, what I’m about to write should be considered for what it is: a list of my reflections and experiences related to interviews and how to succeed at them.
- You’re interviewing to be a team member, not just an employee.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that your solid preparation is enough. The people interviewing you are likely to be the same people you interact with on a daily basis. They probably expect you to have adequate knowledge, as your resume would likely shed light on your skills. Fulfill the other requirement they have by being friendly and easy-going. However, in trying to be friendly, don’t present yourself as a meek individual. Have a mind of your own - that’s what they’re looking for. - Be completely honest.
The people interviewing you aren’t idiots. They will ask you honest questions and they expect and deserve honest answers. If you made a serious mistake in a project you worked on, don’t lie about it. Explain what you learned from the mistake, why having made the mistake actually makes you a stronger candidate, and why it will never happen again. - Be neither a braggart nor a liar.
People put too much importance on modesty. Don’t hide your strengths. If you can slip a quality into the answer to one of their questions, do it. At the same time, don’t fish for opportunities to talk about your qualities. Let them come naturally. - Practice your handshake.
Not enough people have adequate handshakes. Always make eye-contact as you shake their hand, be firm but not lethal, and don’t bend into it. - Dress comfortably.
Everyone knows you shouldn’t wear gym shorts and an undershirt to most interviews. But don’t dress so “professionally” that you’re fidgeting throughout the interview. Some clothes itch, ride, scrunch, and sit differently than others. Take the time to find affordable and appropriate attire that you know you can sit comfortably in for an hour or two. - Don’t over-prepare.
While it’s a good idea to give yourself a refresher course on the essentials, don’t prepare so much that you can’t answer any questions off the cuff. More often than not, they’ll know when you’re reciting a rehearsed response. Trust yourself to say the right thing when it matters. - Pack light.
Don’t go into the interview with so many materials that you take forever to pack up. Have what you know you’ll need and what you probably will need. It will reflect very poorly on your powers of organization if they’re sitting and watching you pack your bag for a minute before you leave.
This is by no means the authoritative guide to interviews. There are a wealth of other sites and books with more pages than I’m willing to read. Some of them are probably even helpful. These are just a few things I’ve been thinking about for the past few days.
6 comments December 1st, 2005