Interview prep

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3 Surefire Ways To Connect With Your Interviewer



The difference between most areas of life and the job search process is that, in most areas of life, you know who your competition is. You can analyze the competition's strengths, capitalize on their weaknesses, and prepare accordingly to give yourself the best chance to win.

The job search process is different: you don't know who you are competing against.

Dozens, sometimes hundreds of applicants are competing for a single role within a company. And you never quite know how you stack up against them. So, how do give yourself the best chance to win?

The key is connection. When we connect with others (in this case, an interviewer), it is going to be harder for them to forget your name. Don't make it easy for them to forget you. You have to focus on what makes you unique, and what makes you unique in relation to your interviewer.

Here are three ways you can connect with your interviewer:

1. Research & Relate


Woman on laptop researches how to connect with an interviewer

When you are given the name of the person conducting your interview, the first thing you should do is research their role within the company. Find out as much as you can about their professional life: where they went to school, what roles they held before this one, and what big projects they've had the opportunity to work on.

This not only demonstrates your curiosity but also opens up a space where you can ask questions and connect with the interviewer on a deeper level (in a deeper way than you would if your questions were primarily focused on the job and company as a whole).

The goal is to find something you and the interviewer have in common. No matter how different your professional paths have been, there are commonalities. You just have to do the work to find them.

2. Compliment (The Right Way)


Man connects with his interviewers during a job interview

In some cases, it's probably not the best idea to compliment your interviewer on their outfit. While it might be genuine or innocent, it can come off as insincere, even flirtatious—and you likely won't receive any "brownie points" for it.

Complimenting (the right way) is an art. For an interview, it comes down to research (again!) and specificity. Avoid complimenting your interviewer on their appearance. Instead, focus on their career accomplishments.

For example, if in your research you come across a project your interviewer worked on, don't be afraid to bring it up. You can say something like: "I noticed you worked on X project last year. The solutions you proposed to deal with Y problem were really creative and original. How did completing this project change your role?"

By complimenting your interviewer in this way, you are focusing on the interviewer as a productive and valuable employee. They will remember how you made them feel long after the interview

3. Tell A Story


Woman tells a story during her job interview

Nothing engages an audience like a story. During an interview, you should think of your interviewer as your audience. Storytelling has the power to connect anyone. It can also help you ace those tough interview questions.

When asked about an obstacle you've overcome recently, don't just go over the facts. Tell them a story. You might find the "Experience + Learn = Grow" model used for answering behavioral interview questions to be helpful.

But remember, every story should end with you on top. What did overcoming that obstacle teach you? What skills did you develop by overcoming it? How did it change your outlook on work? Life?

Don't be afraid to get personal. That is, after all, how we connect with others.

Doing these three things in your next job interview will help you connect with your interviewer, therefore helping you stand out in the hiring process. Connection is the key to making your interview unforgettable.

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3 Pre-Interview Confidence Boosters



Sweaty palms. Shaky voice. Blank mind. These symptoms of nervousness can seriously sabotage a job interview, no matter how prepared and qualified you are.

To quell these natural responses and help you muster more confidence in anxious situations, consider these quick pre-interview confidence boosters so you can perform better right before your next job interview—no energy drinks or cheesy motivational speeches required!

Amy Cuddy, social psychologist at Harvard Business School, talked about what people do while waiting for a job interview to start in a popular TEDGlobal presentation.

“You're sitting down. You're looking at your iPhone or Android. You're looking at your notes."

This common waiting room behavior is not really ideal for maximizing your confidence right before an interview. Instead, the following activities will make you way more confident before meeting a potential boss:

1. Strike A Power Pose For Two Minutes


Confident job candidates wait to be interviewed

According to Cuddy, rather than hunching up and making yourself small in the waiting room chair as you scramble to soak up last-minute notes or practice one final interview question, you should actually find a private place to do what Cuddy calls a power pose.

There are a few variations, but the Wonder Woman pose is easy to remember. So, 10 minutes before your interview, go somewhere private, like the bathroom, and strike a strong pose where you can take up as much space as possible.

2. Repeat A Positive Affirmation


Confident man waits before his job interview

"Repeating a positive affirmation can reduce production of cortisol and stress hormones by almost 50%, slow the mind, lower your blood pressure and heart rate, and make you feel confident and powerful," says Kathleen Hall, founder and CEO of The Mindful Living Network and the Stress Institute.

Hall offers the following examples:

  • I am confident in all things.
  • I have unlimited potential.

Joyce Marter, psychotherapist and CEO of Urban Balance, would agree and suggests deep breathing while you recite a positive mantra in your head "using language you will want to use in the interview, such as 'I absolutely will succeed in this job if given the opportunity.'"

You might feel a little silly at first, but these words will help you emit a more positive appearance—and that sure beats a nervous one!

3. Read Over Nice Things People Have Said About You


Confident woman greets the hiring manager with a handshake during a job interview

Thinking back to a time when you were successful and confident is a great way to recreate that confidence right before an interview. A quick and easy way to do this is to print out and compile anything nice someone has said about you. Read old letters of recommendation, LinkedIn endorsements, letters, or notes from colleagues or teachers that have boosted your confidence in the past.

If you're not really feeling this method, "quickly review your biggest accomplishments in your head before going into the interview," says Katherine Walker, founder and executive director of Lifetime Behavioral Health. "This trip down memory lane will instantly create a sense of confidence and serve to get your brain thinking about items the interviewer will no doubt ask you about." It's the best way to remind yourself that all of your previous experiences have helped shape you and prepare you to succeed in this job interview!

We hope these three tips will help you feel more confident during your next interview so you can land that dream job!

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3 Pre-Interview Confidence Boosters

7 Things That May Surprise You About The Job Search Process



Unless you've been really lucky, you've probably discovered this simple fact about the job search process: it's not easy.

The process is littered with ups and downs, small victories, and brutal defeats. By the time you achieve the ultimate victory—landing a great job—you're both physically and emotionally exhausted.

As difficult as the job search process may be, the lessons that you learn from it will come in handy if you ever find yourself on the job market again. Some of those lessons may actually catch you by surprise.

We'll make the job search process a little easier for you (or at least mentally prepare you) and tackle some of those surprises now.

Wow! There Are Many Ways To Find A Job


Wow is right.

In a simpler time, a long time ago (in a galaxy far, far away), one would just read the classifieds section of the newspaper to see what was available for employment.

Today, while the classifieds still exist (they're online), there are a large number of online job websites that specialize in job searches from all over the country and world.

Websites like Indeed, Monster, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Craigslist are some of the most well-known job boards but there are many others, including some that may be tailored for individual states, regions, and professions.

The number of choices can be very overwhelming, especially if you haven't been involved in a job search recently.

The best thing to do is explore multiple websites to see which ones align best with your needs. Also, seek counsel from friends and colleagues who have been through the process to hear about their experiences with the various websites.

While these websites are a good resource for seeing what's available for jobs, it's important to not over-rely on them. If you've identified some companies you want to work for, conduct a proactive job search and make personal connections via networking. Don't rely solely on the online job board to express interest and submit your application.

There Are A Lot Of Ways To Write A Resume


Job seeker on laptop struggles to write his resume

You haven't updated your resume in a while and want to see what the latest formats look like, so you type "resume format" or "resume template" into your online search engine. All of a sudden, you're presented with another overwhelming amount of choices.

Seeking resume guidance online is like trying to self-diagnose yourself by using a medical website—you sometimes get more than you bargained for.

When working on your resume, it's important to initially focus more on the content, which will eventually allow the format to fall into place.

It's also important to realize that there isn't a "one-size-fits-all" resume, as each resume should be tailored to the job for which you're applying. You want to make sure that your relevant skills and accomplishments that would translate to this new job are at the top of the resume. A recruiter should be able to see these transferable skills within the first six seconds of reviewing your resume.

Work It Daily has multiple resume resources, including a resume review by our career coaches.

The Thought Of Personal Branding May Make You Panic


Professional woman with a strong personal brand

Resumes and cover letters are not enough anymore. At Work It Daily, we like to say that you're a "business-of-one," and personal branding is a big part of that.

Personal branding may seem overwhelming if you've never thought about it before, but it's really not that bad. Think back to when you were preparing your resume. Think about what type of career you're seeking and think about the type of skills that you have that translate to that industry. Think about what really makes you stand out.

Once you've determined this, share it with the world. Use LinkedIn and social media to your advantage.

Your goal is to let people know what you're up to professionally at all times. That way your professional network will be aware of what your personal brand is, which could turn into referrals whenever you're on the job market.

If you worry that you lack a personal branding strategy, don't panic. Take your time, put some thought into it, and consult with colleagues and mentors. Everyone has a personal brand; it's just a matter of putting everything together and executing it.

There's More Than One Way To Do A Job Interview


Job seeker takes part in a video interview

Phone, video, and group interviews are all becoming more common. No matter what type of interview you're a part of, the key is always preparation.

Treat every interview the same. Prepare answers to all the common interview questions the interviewer could ask and do your research on the company before the interview. Prepare questions for the interviewer so they know you're interested and have done your research. Also, be sure to dress professionally (more on that in a minute).

Most people are familiar with the in-person interview and, while it can be nerve-racking, it's also familiar. There's comfort in familiarity. It's those types of interviews you're not as familiar with that can be the most intimidating to prepare for.

Of all these different types of interviews, you'll most likely experience the phone interview, where you're interviewing just for the chance to be invited to an in-person interview. That in itself is a lot of pressure, but when you're doing a phone interview you also lose the advantage of certain social cues.

During an in-person interview, you're able to make eye contact with the interviewer and are better able to convey enthusiasm and emphasis. You're also able to look at the interviewer and attempt to gauge their reactions.

Phone interviews also move a lot quicker than in-person interviews. You get less time to get your points across. Even though all interviews carry with them some level of stress, the condensed timeline and impersonal nature of the phone interview make it one of the trickiest interviews to go through.

You'll Obsess Over What To Wear To Your In-Person Interview


Young professional wears a suit to a job interview

It's true, you will...and that's okay!

You want to dress for success and the interview is your chance to make a first impression. Deciding how to dress goes back to your company research. You want to determine what the company's culture is and then dress one level above it.

For example, if the company is very casual, show up to the interview in business casual attire.

You may already have the perfect outfit or you may spend some time in front of the mirror changing outfits. It's okay to be picky, just as long as the outfit you choose matches the company culture. Make sure your shirt is ironed and your shoes are clean.

And, if you bought new clothes for the interview, make sure to take all the tags off!

You Can Have A Great Interview And Still Not Get The Job


Interesting woman shakes hands with the hiring manager before an interview

There are times when you may know immediately that you didn't get the job. You weren't as prepared as you needed to be or the position just wasn't a good fit. While no one wants to have a bad interview, sometimes it's easier to mentally accept, particularly if you're able to pinpoint where it went wrong and apply the lessons moving forward.

But, what if you did everything right? What if you left the interview feeling like you crushed it and that the job was in the bag, only to later learn that you didn't get the job?

It could be that you did, in fact, have a very awesome interview, but the mistake that you made was assuming that you would automatically get the job because of it.

When employers say they had many qualified candidates apply for the job, it's not just lip service. Chances are they had a tough choice to make and, while you gave it a good effort, there was just another candidate that was a better fit for the position.

It can be a major blow the first time this happens to you. Let it humble you but don't let it deter you. Build on the things you did well and do an honest self-assessment and fine-tune the things that you can do better.

Make sure to thank the interviewer for the opportunity and continue to express interest in the position. There's always a chance they could come back to you at some point in the future.

Salary Is Important But May Not Be Everything


Young professional is happy to receive his first paycheck

A lot of people change jobs to get a better salary, while many others do so because they're not happy in their current jobs. Whatever the reason, salary still remains a crucial component. It's important to do your research on the average salary for the type of position you're pursuing in your geographical area.

However, as you go through the job search process, your stance on salary may change. You may like a company's work-life balance and benefits package so much that you're willing to take a cut in salary. There may also be cases where the demands of a job are more than anticipated and you need to up your salary requirements. Individual circumstances also play a major role in salary negotiations.

When it's time to negotiate salary, be flexible. Don't short-change yourself but also understand your priorities. Salary is an important part of the equation but you also need to factor in everything you've learned about this position during the search process to make a well-informed decision.

One thing is for certain when it comes to the job search process: you learn a lot along the way!

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7 Things That May Surprise You About …

How To Connect With Potential Employers During Your Job Search



It's hard to be passionate about a job when you have no connection to the company. How do you show enthusiasm in your cover letter and job interview if you don't absolutely love what you'd be doing, or where you'd be doing it?

Fortunately, there's an easy way to demonstrate your enthusiasm for a company during the application and hiring process.

Here's how you can make meaningful connections with potential employers during your job search...

1. Find Information About The Company


If you're not totally excited about the company you're hoping to get hired at, then it's possible you just don't know enough about them (or maybe they don't belong on your interview bucket list). Before writing a cover letter, and especially before going in for an interview, you should always check out the company's website.

Also, go to Glassdoor.com to see what past and current employees have to say about the company, and take a peek at their social media accounts. By doing this, you'll get a better sense of their company culture and how they get involved in their community.

2. Reach Out To Current Employees


Man on laptop reaches out to connect with employees of the companies he wants to get hired at

Reaching out to the current employees of a company is the most direct way to form a connection with a potential employer. This is where LinkedIn comes in handy.

You should start a chat with current employees on LinkedIn to get an inside scoop on what it's like to work at the company. And once you've connected with a person at the company on LinkedIn, you'll feel a connection to the company itself by default.

3. Research The Company's Values & Beliefs


Woman on laptop connects with a company while researching for her job search

A company's core values and beliefs can greatly impact how passionate its employees are about their work. That's why it's important for you to know whether your personal values and beliefs align with the companies you're hoping to get hired at.

In other words, would you be a good cultural fit?

This question is as important to you as it is to the potential employer.

While researching the company, before you write your cover letter or go in for an interview, you should try to find information on its values and beliefs as an organization. Maybe once a month the company volunteers in the community. Maybe a percentage of their profits go to causes you support. Maybe they're dedicated to environmental sustainability in all areas of their business. Whatever the company's specific values and beliefs are, they're perfect opportunities for you to connect with them.

4. Create A Connection Story


Man on laptop writes a connection story in his job search

After you do all of the above, you should have an excellent idea of what the company does, who they are, and what they stand for. Now, it's time for you to create a connection story to tell in your cover letter and in your interview.

Start by answering this question: Did something happen to you that made you respect, appreciate, or admire what the company does?

You could be a loyal customer of this company or a good friend of an employee. But if you didn't already have that connection to the company or that passion for what they do, you have it now from your research and your conversations with current employees.

In your cover letter and in your job interview, talk about how you were, or are, affected by the products and services the company provides.

To create a connection story that will stand out to employers, you need to connect your personal story to the company's mission. If you do this, you'll write a disruptive cover letter and be memorable in your interview.

We hope these tips will help you connect with any potential employer you come across during your job search. You'll probably become passionate about a company or employment opportunity you never considered before...it may just take a little research.

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How To Connect With Potential Employers During …

How To Answer The Dreaded “Tell Me About Yourself” Question



The dreaded interview question, "Tell me about yourself," stumps a lot of folks. People of all ages and experience levels often fail to answer this one correctly, in a way that conveys meaningful information to the interviewer—information they will actually use to consider your candidacy.

First off, please know they are not asking you for a boring chronological recap of your professional history. That is the quickest way to lose their interest! What an employer is really asking is, “Why should I hire you?"

That being said, here's my three-step process for giving them an answer that gets their attention.

1. Explain What Business Problems You LOVE To Solve


Enthusiasm for solving a business problem they need help with is the quickest way to get a hiring manager's attention. Let's face it, they aren't hiring you for the heck of it. You need to explain how you can make things better for an employer.

You are a business-of-one. At the end of the day, you provide a service for your employer. By talking about the problems you love to solve and how you go about solving them, the hiring manager will clearly see the type of employee you are and could be for their company.

2. Show Them HOW You Know This Is A Good Problem To Solve


Man answers the interview question, "Tell me about yourself."

Companies hire people who can save and/or make them money. So when you provide examples from your personal and professional past that demonstrate the value your problem-solving skills bring, you are proving your worth.

It also shows that you are thinking like an employee who understands that their job is to make things better for the company.

The research you conducted on the employer before your interview will come in handy here. Connect your past accomplishments and problem-solving experience to the current problems you know the company is trying to solve (from your research). You'll impress the hiring manager with your knowledge of the company and you'll further answer the question, "Tell me about yourself."

3. Explain WHY You Want To Leverage Your Problem-Solving Expertise For The Employer


Woman answers the question, "Tell me about yourself," in a job interview.

Let them know how you hope to grow your skills and abilities by taking your problem-solving skills to the next level. Also, mention how passionate you are about what the company does and how you feel connected to its mission (echoing what you wrote in your disruptive cover letter). This lets the employer know you plan to focus on being successful and expanding your value to the organization if you get hired.

Employers love candidates who clearly plan to hold themselves to a higher standard. If you make it to the last round of interviews, you should consider coming prepared for your final interview with a 30-60-90 day plan.

But that's the long game. In your first interview with an employer, combining your problem-solving expertise and your passion for the company in your explanation is an excellent way to answer the interview question, "Tell me about yourself."

If you follow this three-step guideline when answering, "Tell me about yourself," in your next job interview, I guarantee you'll create a compelling story that will have the employer sitting up and taking notice. This is your chance to sell your value—don't pass it up!

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How To Answer The Dreaded “Tell Me …

30-60-90 Day Plan: What It Is & Why You Need One



If you've never heard of a 30-60-90 day plan, you're not interviewing as well as you think you are. A 30-60-90 day plan is one of the most effective interview tools any professional can use, no matter their industry or job level.

Unfortunately, not a lot of job seekers know what 30-60-90 day plans are, or why they would need one in the first place.

What Is A 30-60-90 Day Plan?


A 30-60-90 day plan is a timeline for your first three months on the job. It lists your goals and the tasks and actions you will take to accomplish those goals. What will you do when you get hired? When will you do it? How will you make a difference from Day 1?

The idea is to run through your plans/ideas for those first three months on the job in your final job interview. Present your 30-60-90 day plan to the hiring manager and have an in-depth discussion about how you will approach the job and be successful in the role.

What's Included In A 30-60-90 Day Plan?


Man looks at his 30-60-90 day plan for a job interview

There are a few things you should always include in your 30-60-90 day plan. In the first 30 days, outline the steps you'll take to complete any onboarding or company training. Also, explain your process for getting to know your teammates, and list any immediate goals that can be measured.

In the next 30 days, set realistic goals related to people, processes, and productivity. These goals shouldn't be too detailed. A high-level approach is enough.

The last 30 days are the most important part of your 30-60-90 day plan. It's the section that shows your potential as a long-term employee. Here, list achievements you expect to have accomplished by the three-month mark, and highlight additional goals geared towards exceeding expectations.

You'll need to have a solid idea of what the job entails before creating your 30-60-90 day plan, so make sure to ask good interview questions and use the job description as a guide.

Why Create A 30-60-90 Day Plan For Your Job Interview?


Job candidate hands the hiring manager his 30-60-90 day plan during an interview

Ultimately, a 30-60-90 day plan is a competitive advantage. It's something so few job candidates use that if you bring one to your final interview you'll already have that edge over the other applicants. It could be the reason you get offered the job.

When you present your 30-60-90 day plan to the hiring manager, they'll be extremely impressed by your "go-getter" attitude. They will automatically envision you being successful in the position because you've clearly outlined how you will be. And that will make them much more likely to hire you.

We hope you now have a better idea of what a 30-60-90 day plan is and understand why it's important to have one while interviewing for jobs.

Remember: Not only does bringing a 30-60-90 day plan to your interview boost your chances of getting the job, but it also gives you a solid foundation once you start.

With your 30-60-90 day plan, you know that you and your new boss are on the same page. You can start your job with confidence, knowing you're on the right path to success.

So, what are you waiting for? Write your 30-60-90 day plan today! Once you realize what a game changer it is, you'll never interview without one again.

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30-60-90 Day Plan: What It Is & …

3 Interview Hacks That Will Help You Land The Job



Interviewing is one of the most stressful aspects of the job search process. Waiting for a response for an interview from employers can take weeks. Not knowing how many others are interviewing for the same position as you can create even more stress.

Whether you are planning your job search now or preparing for your first interview ever, these hacks will increase your chances of landing that dream job.

1. Always Research The Company Before The Interview


Man researches a company on his laptop before his job interview

As they say, "Knowing is half the battle." The same applies to a job interview. Knowing the company's mission and core values, knowing how market trends are affecting the company, and knowing who exactly are the company's competitors are all important hacks that will impress the employer during your interview.

Another key trick is to find out who is interviewing you and research that person on LinkedIn to know his/her career path and story.

In the job interview, don't be afraid to ask how your interviewer got to where they are today. Show interest. Be curious. Walk into the job interview with as much information under your belt as possible, and you'll be surprised by how much easier it is to answer questions—and ask them, too.

2. Dress For The Job You Want (Not The Job You Have)


Woman dresses nice for a job interview

It's true when they say that first impressions are everything. It's highly recommended that you arrive 15-20 minutes early for the interview, bring copies of your resume in a portfolio, and dress conservatively in clothing one level above what the current employees at the company are wearing. You want to look professional, but not like you don't fit in with the workplace culture.

Most importantly, be engaging and enthusiastic during the interview. Remember that multiple people are interviewing for that same position and you want to convey that enthusiasm in your appearance, attitude, and energy. By being enthusiastic, you'll be memorable—in a good way.

Don't forget to ask questions and send a thank-you note to everyone you met at your job interview following the interview to reaffirm your enthusiasm.

3. Know Your Key Skills & Accomplishments


Woman answers a questions during a job interview

It's one thing to list your key skills and accomplishments on your resume, but it's another to be able to sell or market them in an interview. Make sure you list your top skills and accomplishments on a piece of paper before you go into the interview, and be sure to convey how those skills are valuable to the company's goals/objectives, productivity, and profitability.

Most employers nowadays ask behavioral interview questions. A great way to answer these questions while highlighting your skills and accomplishments is by using the "Experience + Learn = Grow" model and/or the STAR technique (situation, task, action, result).

What was the situation/problem? How did you solve this problem/overcome this setback? What did you learn from this experience? How did you apply what you learned to your career? Whether you accomplished something great or developed a new skill, your interviewer will be impressed by your story and remember it long after you walk out the door.

Mastering these three hacks will help you ace your next job interview and increase your chances of scoring a spot with the company of your dreams. At the end of the day, preparation is key!

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3 Interview Hacks That Will Help You …

6 Ways To Be Interesting During Your Interview



Congratulations, you've scored the interview! But, now what? You're going to do your homework to research the company, practice your elevator pitch, and pick up your suit from the dry cleaners...exactly like your competition.

Getting an interview is a huge hurdle to clear and a wonderful sign that you're on the right track with your job search efforts. Now it's time to shift your focus to becoming a rock star candidate.

Approach your interview with the expectation that your competition is equally qualified. Having the skills and wanting the job badly isn't going to cut it in today's market. You need to figure out specific ways to stand out and be interesting.

Here are some strategies to do exactly that...

1. Get Your Interviewer Talking​


Hiring manager answers interesting question from a job candidate during an interview

We know that the more you make me talk, the more interesting I'll think you are. Humans are funny like that. Use this knowledge to your advantage, and immediately engage all the people you meet in conversation—about themselves.

Whether it's the receptionist, the HR manager, or your future boss, ask people questions about themselves, and do as much as you can to draw them out. At the end of your interview, they'll have a much more positive impression of you.

2. Be Prepared With Interesting Questions


Woman tries to be interesting during a job interview

Don't ask the same old, tired questions as every other candidate. You can combine this strategy with the one above and ask your interviewer about his or her experience at the company or perspective about a hot new product or service.

You can also use this as an opportunity to flex your creative powers and ask questions that show you've not only done your homework and research on the company (and the people who work there) but that you went above and beyond to create solutions for the problems they're facing.

3. Be Prepared With Interesting Answers


Man tries to be interesting during a job interview

Most people will answer situational and behavioral interview questions with straightforward examples from their career. It is very important to do this in your job interview, and highlight the results you've achieved on the job. But the truth is, employers hire for three things: personality, aptitude, and experience—in that order. You need to let your personality shine through in the job interview in some way to show that you fit in with the company culture.

Differentiate yourself by being prepared to share stories from other areas of your life that are equally impressive. Did you survive a solo ride on your motorcycle to the Arctic Circle? Create a hip-hop website that gets hundreds of thousands of unique visitors per month? Start a non-profit to save a historic building in your hometown? Share those tales in ways that highlight your problem-solving skills, intrinsic motivation, and unique experience (and always relate it back to the job opportunity).

4. Show Off Your Style


Hiring manager looks at interesting job candidate during an interview

Conventional wisdom says you should stick to neutral, conservative styles for your interview appearance. In general, it is best to go with classic suits and subtle accessories. But if you're the type of person who normally has some artistic flair to your look, you don't need to stifle it completely.

Choose one or two ways to let that style and personality shine through—a bright accessory, unique jewelry, or moderately funky hair. As long as you look professional, it's okay to have an accent.

5. Create A 30-60-90 Day Plan


Hiring manager refers to a resume from an interesting job candidate

When preparing for your interview, create an overview of how you plan to tackle your first 30, 60, and 90 days on the new job. This is called a 30-60-90 day plan, and it never fails to impress hiring managers.

If you've done your research on the company and position, you'll have a sense of what kind of strategy you'd employ to start adding value right away. Write it down on a page or two, and pull it out at the end of the interview to leave behind as a form of marketing collateral for you, a business-of-one.

6. Mind Your Body Language: Mirroring & Power Poses


Interesting job candidate shakes hands with the hiring manager after an interview

Interviews are stressful, and it's easy to get tense and physically awkward. Pay attention to your interviewer's body language and do your best to mirror it. Mirroring tends to disarm people and make them feel more comfortable with you.

To really impress them, use power poses immediately before your interview, in private, and avoid weak poses at all costs. Everyone's subconscious will perceive you in a more flattering, confident light.

What have you done to be interesting in job interviews? Are there techniques that you've found to be particularly successful? If you think you need to work on being more interesting in job interviews, try one or more of these tips during your next job search to stand out from the competition!

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3 Ways To Build Confidence For A Job Interview



The interview is one component of the job search process that most people love to hate. While it serves as a sign from the employer that you are being strongly considered for a position, it also can be a source of angst for candidates who fear they'll make mistakes that will cut them out of the running.

A great way to overcome the anxiety interviews produce is to begin feeling good about the process. Need help getting there? Here are five ways to build confidence for a job interview.

Conduct Research


Woman on laptop researches a company before her job interview

One great way to build your confidence going into the interview is by conducting plenty of research on the company and the position that you're going after. A common question interviewers ask is, "Do you know anything about our company?" Most times, candidates give vague answers, or—in a worst-case scenario—answer, "No."

If you're able to share the company's background information and showcase knowledge of its future goals for the position in question, you'll have an opportunity to impress the interviewer.

Review Common Interview Questions And Practice Them


Woman conducts a mock interview with a work colleague

By understanding how to answer common interview questions, particularly behavioral interview questions, you'll build a lot of confidence going into the job interview.

Another great way to build confidence for a job interview is to practice before the big day. You can do this by answering questions in front of a mirror to read your own facial expressions and body language, or you could have a friend help you with a mock interview.

It's also great to find a professional outfit you feel comfortable wearing. Feeling good in your clothes and knowing you've fully prepared can work wonders for boosting your confidence before a job interview.

Make Sure You Have No Skeletons


A young professional on a laptop interacts with others on social media

An important step in preparing for your interview is being able to recall your own career history and discuss prospective goals with the company and in your professional life as a whole. But, as you look back over your career, be sure to research yourself online to ensure there are no skeletons on the internet that could be brought up in your interview.

Remember, companies conduct background checks often via search engines, so it's up to you to ensure your social media profiles are professional and/or private.

It's normal to feel some anxiety before a job interview, but you can take steps to minimize those nerves. We hope these tips help you build confidence for your next job interview and shine in the hiring process!

Need more help building confidence for a job interview?

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6 Tips To Ace Your Phone Interview



If your resume has made it into the "yes" pile, then the first thing a company will do is a phone screening. The purpose of this is to test your communication skills and to do a quick check of your skills and experience to determine if it's worth bringing you in for an interview.

Here are six important tips that will help you ace your next phone interview:

1. Be Prepared


Basic preparation steps include having your resume in front of you, making sure you are on a good phone line where there are no disturbances, and allocating enough time for the phone interview, even if it goes beyond what was scheduled.

2. Research The Company And The Interviewer


Job seeker researching before phone interview

The first question I used to ask job seekers was, "What do you know about us?" If I did not think they had spent the time to do their homework, they were immediately downgraded. So, spend some time researching the company before your phone interview. Check out their website and social media accounts, and see what employees say about them on Glassdoor.

Also, go to LinkedIn and review the background of the person conducting the interview. Check if the manager you will be reporting to participates in LinkedIn groups and discussions, and see if you have anything in common.

3. Exude Energy And Interest


Job seeker showing interest during phone interview

The words you use account for only 15% of the effectiveness of your communications. Intonation and body language are most important, and since you are on the phone, you live and die by your intonation. Put energy in your voice and demonstrate a high level of interest. An old telemarketing trick is to have a mirror in front of you and smile when you speak since that automatically affects your tone in a positive way.

4. Ask Questions And Build Rapport


Woman answers the phone for her phone interview

People hire people they like, so it is important to turn the interview into a conversation by asking intelligent questions. Show off your expertise by following up their question with an insightful question of your own. Those who just answer questions and wait for the next question will lose here. Use a conversational tone, as if you are having lunch with a friend, telling a story, instead of just responding to questions.

For example, here are two ways to respond to, "Can you tell me about your experience at Bank of America"

"At Bank of America, I was hired to oversee the integration of systems that were the result from acquisitions."

Or...

"You know, that was a really challenging experience because I had to integrate all the different systems that were the result of acquisitions. You can just imagine how tricky that would be since there were so many differences between them, and I had to research and document the trade-offs from an integration of each one."

Which is more interesting? I did some interview coaching with a highly accomplished technical manager at Intel who was getting interviews and no call backs. It was immediately clear that he was just responding to questions in a fairly monotone manner and was about as interesting as a memory chip. After some coaching on how to build rapport using the above technique, he had three offers in four weeks.

5. Ask The Most Important Question


Professional woman asking questions during phone interview

Companies have a reason they are looking for talent and it is your job to find out what their chief source of "pain" is. Do this by asking:

"What is the biggest challenge someone will face in this job in the next six months?"

This lets you target your responses and demonstrate how you have successfully handled these challenges before.

6. See If They Have Any Concerns


Job seeker acing phone interview

Don't just end the call wondering how you did. Ask them. If you are going for a sales position, this is mandatory. State something like:

"Based on what we discussed today, do you think I am a good candidate for this position?"

Now, when they respond, you can handle any concerns they may have.

By using these six simple techniques in your next phone interview, you'll be sure to make a good impression on the employer and, hopefully, move on to the next step in the hiring process.

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5 Things I Wouldn’t Do If I Was Looking For A New Job



I'm jumping on this bandwagon of the five things I wouldn't do based on my profession as a career coach if I was in job search mode right now.

If I lost my job due to a layoff, want to change careers, or hate my job, I would not do these five things...

1. I Wouldn't "Spray And Pray"


@j.t.odonnell 5 things I wouldn't do if I was looking for a new job right now... #5things #careeradvice #resume #linkedin #sprayandpray #careertok #jobsearch #edutok #jobtok #jobsearchtips ♬ original sound - J.T. O'Donnell

I would not get on a job board and start applying for everything under the sun. First of all, you don't want 90% of those jobs and there's nothing more demotivating and depressing than getting rejected from companies you weren't interested in. That's exactly what's going to happen. Less than 3% of people ever get contacted when they apply online. So, don't rely solely on job boards, and don't apply to every job you see. It's ineffective and a waste of time.

2. I Wouldn't Create An Over-The-Top Resume


Man looks at a resume

An over-the-top resume is a resume where you put everything you've ever done on it. You really try to hype yourself up. Unfortunately, it comes across as narcissistic and desperate. It's also difficult to read and usually gets you tossed. Instead, customize your resume for each position you apply for, and focus on quantifying your work experience.

3. I Wouldn't Skip Using LinkedIn


Woman uses LinkedIn in her job search

LinkedIn is the number one place recruiters search for potential job candidates, and they search for them based on keywords (skill sets). So, if you want to get found by recruiters and hiring managers, you need to learn how to optimize your LinkedIn profile.

4. I Wouldn't Skip Interview Prep


Man prepares for a job interview by writing down his answers to interview questions

I would be practicing right now before I even start looking for a job. You need to know how to answer those tough interview questions because it'll help you stand out, and it can help you not only get the job but get more pay as well. Never skip interview prep, no matter how qualified you think you are.

5. I Wouldn't Skip Networking


Happy woman on laptop networks on LinkedIn

Your network is your net worth. What you need to do is create a bucket list of employers you'd like to work for and start strategically reaching out and connecting with those people on LinkedIn as a way to gain visibility when you start applying for their roles. Networking is always the best way to get a job.

There are other tips and tricks I would recommend, but those are definitely the five things I wouldn't do if I was looking for a job right now.

If you would like to learn more about what you should and shouldn't do in your job search, sign up for Work It Daily's Power Hour Event Subscription. I look forward to answering all of your career questions in our next live event!

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7 Essential Questions To Ask In Your Job Interview



Asking questions in your job interview not only makes you stand out in positive ways. It also helps you find out things you need to know (during the interview and before you take the job).

Asking these seven questions in your job interview will put you miles ahead of your competition and give you a better shot at the job:

1. If Your Ideal Candidate Walked Through The Door Right Now, What Qualities, Skills, Or Experience Would They Have?


Man listens to an interview question

Why would you ask a question like this and potentially highlight how you're not perfect for the job? It's because there is no such thing as the ideal candidate. They can wish all they want, but they probably won't get it.

Where you benefit from this question is that, when you hear what's important to them, you can then talk about those or similar things in your own experience—which elevates you as a candidate. It's almost like getting a cheat sheet for your interview answers.

2. Was The Last Person In This Role Successful? Why Or Why Not?


Woman asks a job candidate an interview question

Knowing the story of what happened to the last person in this job is important.

First, it will help you better answer their questions. If the last person didn't do well, you can talk about how you would do it differently. If the last person did spectacularly well and got promoted, you know what you need to do to be considered successful. Second, you may even discover a few clues that will help you determine if you want to take this job or not.

3. What Will A Typical Day Look Like In This Job?


Man answers a question in his job interview

Their answer to this will help you determine everyday tasks as well as company culture. Is this somewhere you can fit in and be successful?

4. What Are The Biggest Challenges Going To Be For The Person In This Position?


Woman talks during a job interview

When they talk to you about their biggest challenges, you'll know exactly what stories to tell about how you have tackled (and conquered) similar challenges. You will be showing them that you are a great fit for this job.

5. What Do You Love Most About Working Here?


Hiring managers smile while interviewing a job candidate

Asking a positive question like this one will help you get a better idea of the employer and the kind of experience you could expect to have if you were hired, helping you figure out whether the job is a good fit for you or not. This will also be an opportunity for you to connect with your interviewer and stand out in the hiring process.

6. How Will I Measure My Performance In This Role?


Hiring manager asks a job candidate an interview question

By phrasing the question this way, you're taking full ownership of your work, and the employer will notice that. You are sending the message that you will be accountable for your actions.

Plus, if they can't explain how you'll be able to measure your own performance to make sure you're having an impact, that's a huge red flag. This question will help you weed out the positions where there's little opportunity to develop your skills, receive promotions, and earn raises.

7. What's The Next Step In This Process?


Absolutely never, ever leave an interview without knowing what and when the next step is. Employers expect you to ask about it. If you don't they may assume that you're not that interested in the job. So, ask it to let them know you're interested and to give yourself some peace of mind about what to expect.

Find out more questions to ask, how to research the company, the best interview answers, and cutting-edge interview tips in our Free Job Interview Prep Kit.

Always be sure to prepare a few questions to ask the hiring manager before the big day arrives. Write them down if you have to, and review them before the job interview starts. Good luck!

Need more help with your job search?

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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