Interview Tips, Part 2 - Land your dream job

Part 2 - Here are some additional tips to help prepare you for your 21st century dream career interview.

WHY SHOULD WE HIRE YOU? WHY ARE YOU A MATCH FOR THE JOB?  WHY DO YOU WANT TO JOIN THIS COMPANY? WHY DO YOU WANT TO HAVE THIS JOB?

Actually, every answer/comment should keep the job requirements in mind… but this is where you need a home run.

Be prepared to say why you're the candidate who should be hired. This is not the time to be modest (although neither should you be arrogant). Make your response a confident, concise, focused sales pitch that explains what you have to offer the employer, and why you should get the job. This is another good time to review the qualifications and the requirements in the job listing, so you can craft a response that aligns with what the interviewer is seeking.

TIP ->>> “Memorize” their website and articles about the company. KNOW WHY YOU WANT THEM. Be prepared with a few examples.
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WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

Another trap question. They want to know if you’re career-oriented and if that aligns with their company plans. My suggestion is to talk about building a career with this company. As we all know, circumstances change. (Notice I included “career orientation” in Strengths” — talk about that early.)

WHY ARE YOU LEAVING YOUR LAST JOB?

ALWAYS talk positive about your companies and schools. You are a product of them. My suggestion is to answer this question praising the new opportunity. Look forward, not back.

WHAT ARE YOUR SALARY EXPECTATIONS?

My suggestion is to avoid a number if you can…but be prepared. Do research, especially Glassdoor to get information of market rates.  

The best answer: “I’d like to be paid fairly in comparison to my new colleagues and the market. I want to fit in.” If comfortable, you can go on to say, “Once I’m in the job, I’d like to be evaluated on merit and achievement, and have the opportunity to earn compensation as a top performer.”

DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?

ALWAYS HAVE QUESTIONS. Ask about the company (from your website and article homework mentioned above). As you interview with many people, OK to ask the same questions — see if they have different or the same answers. NEVER SAY YOU HAVE NO QUESTIONS…

LAST BUT NOT LEAST!

A day or two before, write out your answers in advance and then read them aloud to ensure they sound natural. Try to keep answers short, but informative. There’s a balance between talking about yourself and being self-absorbed. Granted, it’s a hard balance to maintain during the interview process. You may even want to make this comment (with a bit of humor) when you have a more lengthy answer.

“I’m normally a pretty humble person, but to talk even more about myself…”

Once again, Good luck!

Nadine C. North
The North Point
Human Capital / Talent Science
www.thenorthpoint.net