In this exceptionally competitive job market, job seekers need to put their best forward on an interview and differentiate themselves as best as possible! Here are a few pointers to make you stand out and leave the most favorable impression with the hiring manager.
1. Align yourself with a reputable recruiting firm: Recruiters are a good source of connecting with firms that you might not otherwise have access to while also facilitating the entire interview process from inception to offer stage. Keep in mind that there are a lot of firms out there but there are only a handful of solid, reputable ones. Do your research and ask friends or colleagues for referrals. Only work with a firm and a recruiter that you feel comfortable is going to work hard on your behalf to represent you in an honest and effective way.
2. Be on time for interviews: Leave extra early and be sure to arrive a few minutes before the interview, as arriving late always leaves a bad first impression. If you find yourself in an unavoidable situation which could cause a late arrival (i.e., traffic or train delays), call your recruiter to let him/her know you’re running late. If you can’t reach the recruiter, bring the # of the person you’re meeting to show a respect for his/her time and will be arriving late. On the opposite end of the spectrum, don’t however arrive too early (20 minutes or more) as that doesn’t always sit well with hiring managers.
3. Research the company and the reasons you want to work there: Research the company and learn as much as possible about the company’s mission, objectives, goals, and future plans. Have questions prepared to show that you’vbe showing much initiative on your part. (One candidate who said that during an interview was understandably not asked to return.)
4. Come prepared with a list of relevant accomplishments or projects: Be prepared to give examples of projects and accomplishment (professionally or personally). Examples are memorable and will help your interviewer better envision you in the role.
5. Be enthusiastic about the opportunity: Acting excited about the position and firm will help differentiate you from the others. A client once told me that the candidate he interviewed seemed totally uninterested in the role. He said the way she acted, “if I were on a date, I would’ve asked for a check.”
6. Bring extra copies of your resume: It’s always a good idea to have copies in case your interviewer doesn’t have one handy. Also if the meeting is going well and someone else is called in, it’s good to have spare copies – it shows you’re prepared and serious about getting the job.
7. Bring a notepad: Take notes when appropriate as it shows initiative and interest. However, don’t overdo it. One candidate scribbled notes during an entire interview and the hiring manager was so distracted, she found it unappealing and passed on pursuing the candidate further.
…stay tuned for Part 2!
Shana Cohen
Director – Human Resources / Office Support
