Catch Them and Keep Interviewers -  at Hello!

Brenda Griffin Get A Job Expert

 

You must choose the thoughts and actions that will lead you to success. - R.C. Allen

    

     You've taken off your coat, been taken to your interview location, and chit chatted a bit with your first interviewer.  Maybe you're asked about how the directions were, if you need anything, next you're off.  Your interview begins! You are at "hello,"  just like Jerry McGuire. Are you ready to seize the moment?      Typically, interviews start by way of invitation.  Typically, something like "Tell me about yourself".  Here is your golden opportunity. What's the best way to draw them in and keep them at hello?

 

     Think what the interviewer is really asking: "Tell me what you can do for me and the organization." "Tell me why I should hire you." "Tell me how you will make my life easier."  "What are you bringing to the table?" Get the idea?

 

          The unprepared lose them. Why?  Because they don't shift their focus to what is important to employers.   Employers are busy people!  When they ask questions, they really want to know how you can help them.  At that moment, they need to be the center of your universe! That is how you catch them and keep them at hello.

 

     So, what answers will tune them out? "I want to work at your company because you're in growth mode and look stable."    "I'm looking for a job in this field and wanted to explore this one."  "I'm unemployed, been on 50 interviews with no luck, and wondering when you will make the hiring decision." 

 

     Why?  Because the focus is on your needs! This is not the time to wonder what they can do for you.  It's a time for you to show what you can do for them! They will be thinking, "Enough about you, what can you do for me?" Worse yet, you may have already lost them.

 

     Other responses that will lose them include:  "I'm a mother of three wonderful children and I enjoy needle point." "I just moved from Atlanta and am new to the area." "I'm looking to make a career transition and this position looks interesting."

 

     All good to know about you the "person," but how will you sell yourself as you, the "potential employee?"? That's the problem.  You won't.  You'll lose them at hello.

 

     What responses will catch them and keep them?  Those that clearly state what you will do for them.  Here is an example. "I am enthusiastic with people, make effective presentations, and have produced results for my current employer.  I led my team to a 25% increase in sales last year and I can do the same for you."

 

     When you sell them with statements of what you can do for them, you can bet they will be tuned in and listening.  You'll have them. Right where you want them.  At hello!