Why do some people get hired and others not and do you have any control over the outcome?
I say, "Yes, but first you need to learn and practice what I call the "sizzling seven"—strategies that can turn a job interview into a job offer.
Sizzling Strategy Number 1: Polish Your Resume
Don't even think of presenting a resume with typos and long-winded sentences or inaccurate information. Read it again. Review it again. Repeat the process again.
Sizzling Strategy Number 2: Plan Ahead
This includes setting out your wardrobe, shoes, and accessories the night before so you can leave in plenty of time to arrive early. Ladies, leave dangling earrings at home to avoid them swinging as you speak. And men, empty your pockets so you won't be tempted to play with your change. Wear clean comfortable shoes and conservative but attractive clothing—business suit or sport coat and trousers for men and a pants suit or skirt and jacket for women. This might seem obvious but you'd be surprised at how many people appear in a professional setting in jeans and flip-flops. Example: "American Idol" hopefuls!
Sizzling Strategy Number 3: Know the Company
What could be more embarrassing than walking into an interview at ABC Corporation and not knowing anything substantial about the company? It would be 'good-bye' before you even finish saying 'how do you do?' A bit of homework ahead of time will pay off handsomely.
Sizzling Strategy Number 4: Prepare Real Life Examples
Jot down some anecdotes from your current or previous employment, volunteer experience, or community service. If you are quick to solve problems, bring a sane response to a conflict, or deal successfully with difficult coworkers or customers, be sure to talk about this. When asked a question, respond with a real-life illustration that will show rather than merely tell.
Sizzling Strategy Number 5: Think Before You Speak
It's okay to pause, to reflect for a second, and to take your time answering a question. Avoid blurting out your faults. On the other hand you don't want to inflate your abilities either. Be honest. If you learned from a mistake it's fine to admit that. Share how you were able to turn around something you regretted or how you handled a challenging situation to the benefit of everyone involved.
Sizzling Strategy Number 6: Follow Up With a Thank You Note
Regardless of the outcome of the interview, be sure to express your appreciation at the end of the meeting and with a handwritten note as soon as possible. This will show your thoughtfulness as well as your desire to keep in touch. You may not get the job. But that doesn't have to change who you are. If you make a good impression with your kindness, honesty, and professionalism you may be the one the hiring manager thinks of when a new position opens. I know a college professor who lost out to someone with more experience, but three months later he won a position at the same school when the previous employee retired.
Sizzling Strategy Number 7: Create Some Questions
When the interviewer asks if you have any questions, that's your chance to voice yours. Avoid going blank because you haven't come prepared. Ask for the information you need to make up your mind about whether or not this company is one you want to work for if the offer comes in. Find out about the working conditions and environment, the chance for promotions, and the specific duties you'd be expected to carry out. Save the questions about salary and benefits for the meeting that will come after you've been offered the job.
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Written By Jimmy Sweeney President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new, Job Interview "Secret"