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The
Secret to Interview Success
Assuming you're
qualified for the job, the outcome of your employment interview
will be dependent on your ability to discover needs and empathize
with the interviewer.
You can do this
by asking questions that verify your understanding of what the interviewer
has just said, without editorializing or expressing an opinion.
By establishing empathy in this manner, you'll be in a better position
to freely exchange ideas, and demonstrate your suitability for the
job.
In addition
to empathy, there are four other intangible fundamentals to a successful
interview. These intangibles will influence the way your personality
is perceived, and will affect the degree of rapport, or personal
chemistry you'll share with the employer. They are:
Enthusiasm.
Leave no doubt as to your level of interest in the job. You may
think it's unnecessary to do this, but employers often choose the
more enthusiastic candidate in the case of a two-way tie. Besides,
it's best to keep your options open. Wouldn't you rather be in a
position to turn down an offer, than have a prospective job evaporate
from your grasp by giving a lethargic interview?
Technical
interest.
Employers look for people who love what they do, and get excited
by the prospect of tearing into the nitty-gritty of the job.
Confidence.
No one likes a braggart, but the candidate who's sure of his or
her abilities will almost certainly be more favorably received.
Intensity.
The last thing you want to do is come across as "flat" in your interview.
There's nothing inherently wrong with being a laid back person;
but sleepwalkers rarely get hired.
Most employers
are aware of how stressful it can be to interview for a new position,
and will do everything they can to put you at ease.
Other
Important Factors.
Since interviewing also involves the exchange of tangible information,
always make sure to present your background in a thorough and accurate
manner and gather data concerning the company, the industry, the
position, and the specific opportunity.
A worthwhile
interviewing goal is to link your abilities with the company needs
in the mind of the employer so you can build a strong case for why
the company should hire you. The more you know about each other,
the more potential you'll have for establishing rapport, and making
an informed decision.
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