Interview Tips from LES

Top Ten Interview Tips from LES

The tables have been turned a bit here at Local Eye Site. Typically, we’re facilitating hiring for our customers, but now we are the hiring party. Over the last few months, we have been interviewing quite a few candidates for a Marketing and Sales Support position we plan to fill in early 2012. We’ve seen a lot, good and bad. Here’s a list of “to-do’s” and “to-don’ts” that every job-seeker should consider.

1. For goodness sake, educate yourself about the company you are interviewing with. If you don’t have a clue what they do, then you might as well go home. Nothing says, “I didn’t prepare for this interview” more than watching a candidate squirm in their seat trying to guess at why your company exists (this is #1 on the list for a reason).
2. Prepare examples of work you’ve done in the past that demonstrate your ability to do this job. If that doesn’t quite do it…
3. Offer to complete a project for the employer at no charge that will prove your ability to exceed their needs. Trust me, that will give the employer a warm fuzzy, and you a leg up on the competition.
4. I want YOU to want MY job. Being prepared, and knowledgeable about a specific opportunity and company is a good sign. Put yourself in the employer’s shoes. Would you rather hire someone that is looking for just any old job, or would you rather hire someone that is actually excited about your company and your opportunity.
5. First impressions are a big deal. Remember, the employer is meeting lots of people, and has to make a tough decision based on limited exposure. Do what your Mama told you…sit up straight, make eye contact, be attentive, be knowledgeable, be excited and give a firm handshake.
6. Write a cover letter specifically to the employer that explains why you are the right person for the job. The cover letter is an old staple, but you would be surprised what a small percentage of job-seekers take the time. If you’re looking for a competitive advantage, here’s an easy one.
7. Come prepared with great questions. It’s hard to believe that you really want this job, but you don’t have a single question about it? I’ve answered every single curiosity or concern…really?
8. Smile. I know you’re nervous, but wouldn’t you rather work with energetic, happy people. I would.
9. Transparency. Maybe I’m not like everyone else, but I want the truth, and I can handle it. We all have something in our professional background that we wish had gone differently. It’s okay. What I can’t deal with is wondering if I can trust someone to tell me the truth.
10. Follow up. Your Mama probably told you to write thank you notes too. Listen to your Mama-she knows what she’s talking about.