You finally get that one call for a job interview you applied for. What might be the first thing that comes to mind? Indeed, job interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right guidance and coaching, you can transform them into positive experiences. Here are some strategies to reimagine job interviews:
Pre-Interview Preparation:
Self-Reflection and Preparation:
Know Yourself: Reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, and values. Understand what motivates you and what you’re passionate about.
Research the Company: Learn about the company’s culture, mission, and values. Understand how your values and skills align with their needs.
Mindset Shift:
Not a test: The interview is your opportunity to find out about the company and showcase your fit. So instead of seeing interviews as a test, view them as a conversation.
Positive Visualization: Imagine yourself succeeding in the interview. Visualize confident interactions.
Practice, Practice, Practice:
Mock Interviews: Practice with a career coach, friend, or even your own bathroom mirror. Focus on concise, impactful answers that highlights your fit for the company and role.
STAR Technique: Use the Situation, Task, Action, Result framework to structure your answers.
Amid the Job Interview:
Body Language and Communication:
Eye Contact: Your shoe isn’t listening to you. Maintain a fair level of eye contact with the interviewer to convey confidence.
Smile: A genuine smile doesn’t hurt. It shows a positive impression.
Active Listening: Do your best to show interest in what the interviewer says.
Storytelling:
Share Stories: Who doesn’t like a good story? Share relevant stories from your previous or current work experiences. Use the STAR technique to highlight your achievements.
Quantify Results: Provide specific numbers or percentages to demonstrate impact.
Post-Interview Efforts:
Reflect on the Interview
Learn and Adapt: Reflect on what went well and areas for improvement.
Document Insights: Write down key information or details you have learnt during the interview to record progress.
Follow Up Appropriately:
Respect Timelines: If the interviewer has mentioned a specific timeline for decision-making, wait until that period has passed before following up.
Be Polite: If you have not heard back, send a follow-up email or phone call inquiring about the status of your application.
Stay Engaged
Network: Connect with the interviewers on LinkedIn to expand your professional network.
Company Updates: Follow the company of interest on social media.