Have you followed all the recommended interview protocols and accurately portrayed your skillset and experience, but have yet to land a job? While it might seem like coming out on top is a privilege reserved for those who hold the secret formula, the truth is, there’s no secret. But there is a simple formula that those who get the jobs have learned, and you can too.
Cultural and personality fit is important. If your prospective employer doesn’t feel a connection with you, your skills probably won’t be enough to convince them. So how can you stand out from the crowd and make a connection from the start?
Here are a few things you should keep in mind as you prepare for your interview to make yourself likable and memorable, for the win.
1. Think before you go
Don’t show up at your video
interview waiting for the interviewer to direct the conversation. Know what it is that you want to convey, and make sure that every thoughtful response you give leads the conversation where you want the focus to be. And that direction doesn’t just include words—because everything from your body language to the way you speak and convey your message will help shape the impression of who you are and what you’re about.
2. Ask your interviewer questions
Most people show up to interviews as simply interviewees, instead of realizing that this is a two-way conversation in which you are interviewing the company for the right fit as well. Don’t make questions an afterthought. Come prepared to find out all you can not only about the company and the day-to-day, but ask for your interviewer’s insights and experiences as well. Not only will you get more insights yourself, but you’ll stand out among the masses—because people who show interest in others are generally more likable and memorable in the end.
3. Be excited
The interview jitters are completely normal—but they could leave you bashing yourself afterwards wondering why, in your nervousness, you didn’t say such and such. But nervousness follows the same physiological process as excitement—the only difference is how you frame it in your mind. Work to redefine your nerves as excitement, and get fired up for your chance to show off your skills.
4. Break the mold with a story
History is full of stories and myths because it’s the way we naturally communicate—and the things we remember. Rather than simply stating the professional facts in response to questions, share real-life stories that illustrate your capabilities to
handle whatever life might throw your way. Not only will it be way more captivating to listen to, but it will subtly show your personality and style and make you more likable.
5. Expand your mind
Podcasts can help open your mind to new ideas, and give you some interesting fodder for conversation, as well as insights that could set you apart from the last interviewee. Are you in finance?
Check out these podcasts to amp your interview style (and industry know-how).
6. Follow up
Now that you’ve had a great interview, you’ll want to solidify their memory of you by following up with a ‘thank you’ email within a day. Take the opportunity to mention anything you may have forgotten to say during the interview, and to remind them why you
really want the job—and are the right person for it.
Ready? View our thousands of open positions right here at: CyberCoders.com
