You were diligent and strategic in your job search, and you’ve scored an interview. But now you’re anxious about sitting down to answer common interview questions in a way that sets you apart from other candidates.
One of the best things about building a strong cover letter and resume out of the gate is that most of the information you should be drawing on for the interview is right in front of you. Now all you have to do is prepare for the interview.
Whether it’s an on-site, video, or phone interview, here are 3 simple tips to help you hone your approach:
#1: Practice your active listening skills.
Each hiring manager is looking for specific abilities, accomplishments, and characteristics. It is up to you to listen to the interviewer and determine what those needs are through the questions she/he asks.
Keep in mind: in a panel interview, interviewers will likely have their own agendas. Take the time to listen closely and identify what they are, and then tailor your responses in ways that thoughtfully respond.
#2: Have examples of your accomplishments
Re-read your own resume and provide examples of your accomplishments. This will help to provide a comfort level to the interviewer that you have a depth of understanding.
Keep your major accomplishments top of mind and readily accessible in the interview. You may overlook some of your accomplishments that speak to your fit within the organization, so commit to reviewing your resume line by line. Role play and think through potential questions the interviewer might ask. Practice makes perfect.
#3: Ask questions that count
It’s always a good idea to ask questions so that you understand the interviewer’s needs. Two critical questions to ask interviewers:
- What do you see as the greatest challenge for the person accepting this position?
- If there was one goal that you would like to see accomplished in the first year, what would it be?
This is like getting the answers to the test before you hand it in. Listen for the answers and use examples and accomplishments that speak to your ability to take on the responsibilities and goals named. You may also want to ask about the company culture and how your role can contribute to enhancing it.
Tackling the end of the interview
Always go into an interview with a can-do approach. Consider your attitude. Show the hiring manager you are positive, enthusiastic, and excited at the possibility of working there. Bring extra copies of your resume. And always leave the interview by asking for the position!
Your focus is not whether you accept the position; it’s that you are empowered to make that decision by getting an offer you may choose to accept – or not. No offer, no decision. Remind yourself you have what it takes. Put these job interview tips to work, and practice, practice, practice!
Team Harmony offers opportunities in a diverse range of non-clinical specialities. These roles can be contract, contract-to-hire, or direct hire basis as well as full-time or part-time.
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Check out more tips for managing your career here.
Hear what it’s like to work for Harmony from our consultants here.
