Always ace your interview!



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One of the best things about my job is that it gives me an opportunity to meet and interact with some amazing professionals. And most of the people I meet are usually speaking to me about their jobs or want advice on their career moves. I also meet with many candidates on a formal basis when I am doing a search for my clients.

There are some basic things that stand out in most of interactions. And it is the level of 'unpreparedness' of most of the candidates.

Whether you are actively looking for a change or not, I personally believe you should be prepared for the meeting. Whether it is with a search consultant or with an executive of the hiring company.

Here is a quick check-list to prepare you for your next meeting :

1. I am surprised by the number of people who do not even read the 'job description' properly before coming in for the meeting. Hiring managers/ consultants mentally cross you out because they feel you are not serious about or not interested in the opportunity.
2. I am always impressed by people who have not only read the JD, but have also done additional research on the company, the industry, the key people in the organisation, the interviewer, etc.
   If the company you are meeting is a listed entity, then you will usually find substantial material online in the form of financial statements, annual reports, analysts' reports, etc.
   This level of preparation always shows in the quality of the discussion and always impresses the interviewer.
3. To quote an oft-repeated cliche, first impressions matter. The way you are turned out, and the manner in which you greet and acknowledge people. This almost always sets the tone for the conversation ahead. (More about this in a future post.)
4. If you think about it, you can actually pre-empt about 70-80% of the interview and prepare accordingly. Based on the stage of evolution of the organisation and the specific role they are hiring for, you can expect a list of questions that would come your way; and you can go in well-prepared with specific answers.
   You can also expect questions on any gaps in your profile, your experience, your relevance, etc. And if you have thought through these before the meeting, you come across as a genuinely interested, meticulous, 'thinking/ analytical' kind of person.
5. And always use opportunities to ask questions. But don't come across as being arrogant or confrontational, when posing the qusetions.
   Your questions can say a lot about you. It communicates your interest, your business acumen, your ability to see the big picture, and your skill in unearthing the essentials.

These are a few basic pointers to help you make a great impression in your next hiring conversation or interview.

And as always, I look forward to you sharing your pointers with me as well.