Job interviews are often stressful. Everyone wants to make the “right” decision. Job applicants want to say the right thing, and companies want to hire the right person. To reduce your stress and stand out as a candidate, take advantage of the situation. Initiate a conversation with each person you meet about the “right” person for the job. This information will allow you to determine if you are a good fit, demonstrate how you meet their expectations if you do, learn more about the company and interpersonal dynamics, and establish yourself as a personable and responsive candidate.
Start with a few general questions: What skills will the right person possess? What type of demeanor is a good fit for this team and company? You can use this information to help decide if you are a good match for the job, and if you are a good match, you can provide examples to support your qualifications. You will notice that each person’s answer is somewhat unique. These differences can stem from several possibilities (e.g., the position encompasses several roles, there is a lack of agreement). As you note the differences, you can explore more to decide what explanation is most likely. This information is useful in understanding the role, expectations, team dynamics, and other factors that can help you make a more informed decision if (when) you receive an offer. This shift away from a traditional interview and use of open-ended questions can help the exchange feel more like a conversation. This approach also shifts the attention away from you. This accomplishes several important goals as you develop rapport with the people you meet and create opportunities to display warmth and competence. People appreciate feeling heard. As you ask about their perspectives and expectations and connect your skills and experiences to those expectations, you create a chance to acknowledge their perspectives in a personable and meaningful way. Overall, it is tempting in an interview to fill the time with information about your skills and experiences. Nervousness, imposter syndrome, and other elements contribute to this tendency, which can result in a rushed, frantic, and self-centered presentation. Taking a moment to consider the person sitting across from you helps the interview become a discussion about the company’s needs and how you can address them. This change in focus improves the interview experience for all involved, and it increases the odds they decide you are the right fit for the job.
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AuthorDr. Rasco is a social psychologist with a passion for students and their success. Archives
October 2020
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