When I send a candidate out to interview with one of my clients, I cover a few basics, but I'm sure to the applicant, I sound like a broken record (as my co-workers will support)... but people seriously make these kinds of mistakes and often don't know why they didn't get the call back!
Most of what I tell folks seems obvious- but I swear the only reason I'm telling you about it is because these things ACTUALLY happen! I don't THINK you - my candidate - will do these things, but you and I both would hate it if you did and I didn't remind you! You want the company to decide on hiring you based on YOU not a mistake or mis-judgement.
Check out this article by Dave Kerpen on LinkedIn today. It really effectively summarizes some common (and not so common) mistakes but also the thought process that employers use when these things come up. This is a must read for everyone- I'll definitely be sending it to folks who are going on first interviews with me!!
My favorites are:
#6- Not Preparing Anecdotes
This is well put... I try to tell people to think of time that you did what the interviewer is asking so that you can speak with confidence- often if you picture the time you sound less vague. But this tip takes it one step further.... prepare some instances that might work for a few questions or some obvious ones and really color them up. Make them lively and interesting so when you tell those stories you're really painting a picture for them.
#10- Talking Themselves Out of the Job
I don't often cover this with candidates, because I think most people must want to sell themselves, but the article brings up a good point... you have to convince someone you're right. They probably automatically are inclined to see how you don't fit... its your job AND OPPORTUNITY to show them why they're wrong! You haven't used Salesforce? Talk about any other databases you use, or that you watched you tube videos and you've used similar programs and are confident you could get caught up on this particular skill very quickly. Sell it!!
#11- Hedging Bets
Another good point- you and I know you're going on a lot of interviews, but you want this company to feel like you're only interested in this role for them and nothing else matters. If they like you but for another position, have faith they'll see it and make that connection on their own!
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