Job interview

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A lot of job seekers worry about how other candidates are performing in job interviews. However, if you are too concerned about your competition, it can affect your own performance.

After all, there is no point worrying about stuff you have no control over. You can only focus on doing your best. Having said that, here are some of our top interview secrets on how to be more confident in a job interview and stop worrying about your competitors:

1. Focus On Your Unique Abilities


Man tries to beat the competition in a job interview

We all have something we are really good at, and this is what you need to focus on during a job interview. This is your specialty—the service you provide to employers.

You are a business-of-one. In the job interview, you need to articulate how you will make or save the company money with the service you provide. Whether it is your strong analytical skills, ability to win clients, or experience in running marketing campaigns across various countries, focus on what you bring to the job and always back up your answers with examples.

2. Provide Specific And Tangible Examples


Woman tries to beat the competition in a job interview

Most people have a mediocre resume that doesn't show recruiters why they are a strong candidate. The way to avoid that is to provide specific, tangible examples of what you've achieved in previous/current jobs that would be relevant to the job you're applying for.

In a job interview, you'll probably be asked a few behavioral interview questions that require you to provide an example in your answer. Use the "Experience + Learn = Grow" model and the STAR technique so your answers are clear, concise, and structured.

3. Use Evidence And Concrete Examples To Back Up Your Statements


Man tries to stand out from the competition in a job interview

A continuation of the previous point, it's important to back up every statement you make with numbers. This is especially true in regard to your resume, where you should be quantifying your work experience.

Numbers are great for demonstrating your skills and expertise. Did you increase revenue or save time? How did you improve processes or procedures? How many clients did you deal with/win every month? You definitely want to have a few stories prepared related to the job description using the STAR technique.

4. Demonstrate Your Soft Skills


Woman tries to stand out from the competition in a job interview

People hire people they like. During a job interview, you'll want to demonstrate that you have good communication skills, know how to deal with people, have integrity, and so on.

The truth is employers hire for three things: personality, aptitude, and experience. You could have the right experience for a job, but if the hiring manager doesn't think your personality is a good fit for the company culture, you probably won't get the job offer. So, make sure you demonstrate your soft skills to prove you're the best candidate for the job, not just the most qualified.

5. Forget About The Competition


To make competition irrelevant in your job search, simply stop worrying about other candidates. You don't need additional stress when looking for a job. Focus on what you can bring to the company instead.

If you're confident in yourself and stop worrying about the things you can't control, you'll have the right mindset to conduct a successful job search.

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.


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5 Interview Secrets That Will Help You …



The longer your job search drags on, the more you start to doubt your interviewing abilities. Or worse—you start to doubt your skills and experience as a job candidate, which in turn affects your interview confidence.

You may begin to ask yourself, "What are employers really looking for in a job candidate?" The good news is we can help you understand just what you need to convey in a job interview to stand out to employers and finally land a job.

Employers want you to answer three questions they won't ask you directly. So, it is your job to answer those unasked interview questions in order to move on in the hiring process.

Here are three things you should be sharing in your job interview to make the right impression and send the correct message to potential employers:

1. How Do You Save Or Make Companies Money?


The first thing you need to convey in your job interview is how your skills and expertise save or make a company money. You are a business-of-one. As an employee, you provide a service to an employer. So, in your job interview, you have to prove to the employer that the services you can provide for the company will either save or make them money.

It comes down to your ability to justify the initial cost it would take to hire you. Most professionals don't know that it costs an employer between 130% to 140% of their salary to hire them. It's a big investment for a company to hire a new employee. That's why you need to convey your efficiency and effectiveness as an employee in job interviews.

To prove you could save or make a potential employer money, quantify your past experience (on your resume and in the interview) and cite examples of how you've saved or made your previous/current employer money. Once a potential employer understands that you will provide a good return on investment, they will automatically consider you a great candidate for the position.

2. How Do You Like To Deliver Value?


Professional woman shakes the hiring manager's hand during a job interview

Make sure you talk about how you deliver value too. No employee performs a job the same way. We all work on tasks differently and go about accomplishing goals with different processes and strategies. If a company doesn't think you'll be able to do the job the way they want you to do the job, you probably won't be offered the position.

In order to explain how you deliver value, you need to know exactly what you do and how you do it. During a job interview, let the employer take a peek inside your brain to help them get a better idea of how you would perform certain tasks that the job requires.

A great way to explain how you deliver value is by answering behavioral interview questions with the STAR technique. Begin answering a behavioral interview question by describing the situation or task you were faced with. Then, explain how you took action, walking the employer through your decision-making process. Finally, quantify your results so the employer can clearly see how you deliver value.

(If you're not sure how you deliver value, take this free quiz! You may be surprised by the results.)

3. Why Do You Feel Connected To The Business?


Job candidate answers the hiring manager's questions during a job interview

The last thing you absolutely want to convey to an employer is how you feel connected to their organization. Consider the company culture and their mission, and use that to your advantage.

During a job interview, it's important to explain to an employer how you feel like you're a part of their "tribe." Why do you want to be a part of the team of people dedicated to solving this specific problem? You can also talk about why you admire their products and services, why you understand and identify with their customers, and what you love about the way they do business.

Tie all your pre-interview research back to what excites you about working for the company. Employers want to hire people who would integrate well within their organization. By talking about the above factors, you'll connect with employers on a deeper level and show that you're passionate about the job. Therefore, you'll come across as a great cultural fit.

You can also begin to convey that connection to a potential employer in your disruptive cover letter. A disruptive cover letter catches an employer's attention and gets them excited about you as a candidate. So, even before you walk through the door to your interview, an employer will already feel a connection to you.

Knowing what to say in an interview in order to make the right impression can feel incredibly overwhelming, maybe even impossible. If you follow these three tips, you'll be sure to send the correct message to an employer, and ultimately increase your chances of landing the job.

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.


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What Employers Are REALLY Looking For In …



You polished your resume and sent it to the right person, along with a stellar cover letter. You got a call. You aced the interview. You were brought back in—twice! You sent thank-you notes after each interview, to each interviewer. Your follow-up was polite and appropriate. You were told you were a finalist. The HR person thought it was looking good for you...yet they gave the job to someone else.

After all that effort and waiting and wondering. After joking with the receptionist about being a “regular" in the lobby. After establishing what seemed like a genuine rapport with the executive in charge of the department. After what the HR person said about it looking good...

Yes, it's a disappointment. But in spite of what you might think, all is not lost. What can you do to maximize your chances of having some good come out of this seeming loss?

Here are three ways you should react to a particularly disappointing job rejection:

Be Gracious


Yes, you were obviously the best candidate, at least as far as you could tell. And maybe some of the people on the other side of the interview desk thought so too. But a decision was made, no matter how difficult. And it's time to touch base one more time with a thank-you note to all involved for their time and consideration.

Be A Resource If You Can


Professional man gets rejected from a job

If there's some topic that was discussed and a piece of information that the interviewer wished they had, track it down. If the interviewer wanted to connect with someone you know, offer to make the introduction. There's not always an opportunity like this, but if there is, take advantage of it.

By doing this, you're not only being professional about the rejection, but it's also an opening to add the hiring manager to your professional network. Consider connecting with this person on LinkedIn down the line.

As they say, "Out of sight, out of mind," so try to stay on the hiring manager's radar.

Keep The Door Open


Young woman and HR manager discuss the next steps after she is rejected from a job she applied to

Even though you didn't get the job, it's important to reiterate your respect and admiration for the company and the fact that you would like to work there. It's okay to say, "If another position comes up—or if the candidate you hired doesn't work out—I would still love the opportunity to join the team over there."

A sentence like this can cement you in their minds as the backup or as the first person to be called when something else becomes available.

HR officials will sometimes forward resumes of promising candidates to colleagues at other companies for their open positions. Getting the original job is just one good outcome of the job interviewing process. Consider a "near miss" at getting hired one more step in building your reputation for overall career success.

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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3 Ways Professionals Should Respond To Job …



There are a few ways you can impress hiring managers in a job interview. You can stand out for your answers, your personality, aptitude, and experience, your knowledge of the company, and the questions you ask.

But which questions do hiring managers expect you to ask?

According to a recent study by Zety, there are a handful of questions hiring managers expect you to ask before the interview concludes. Here are the top five:

1. Can You Show Me Examples Of Projects I'd Be Working On?


Why a hiring manager wants to hear this: They want to know you're serious about wanting the job and excited to add value to the company from the very start. It shows initiative. If you're already thinking about working on projects this early in the hiring process, that puts you way ahead of the other candidates who are just trying not to bomb the interview.

What their answer will tell you: You'll get a sense of what your average project will look like. You'll also be able to get a better idea if this is the type of work you want to do. Could you develop your skills working on these projects? Is this work that will challenge you to grow as a professional? If the hiring manager stumbles trying to answer this question, they might not have been completely transparent about what the position actually entails.

2. What Are The Skills And Experience You’re Looking For In An Ideal Candidate?


Man shakes the hand of the hiring manager before his job interview

Why a hiring manager wants to hear this: It shows that you're curious and want to know exactly what you need in order to succeed in the position. You are interested in being that ideal candidate. You are interested in being a successful employee.

What their answer will tell you: You'll know exactly what they are looking for, all the skills and experience they didn't mention in the job description. It also gives you another opportunity to prove you have the skills and experience they're looking for. A great way to provide proof is by using the STAR technique (or the "Experience + Learn = Grow" technique) we recommend job seekers use to answer behavioral interview questions.

3. What Are The Most Immediate Projects That Would Need To Be Addressed?


Hiring manager listens as the job candidate asks her a question during the interview

Why a hiring manager wants to hear this: Even more so than the first question on the list, this question shows that you are a proactive employee. You are already imagining yourself working for the company and contributing to its success. You are eager to add value and prove that you are an excellent employee.

What their answer will tell you: You'll have a clearer understanding of what your first few months will look like on the job. It'll help you imagine working for the company, and allow you to brainstorm ideas for the projects they mention. Also, it'll help you plan ahead. In the case you do get the job, you'll already be prepared to jump in and add value from your very first day.

4. What Does A Typical Day Look Like?


Man asks the hiring manager a question during his job interview

Why a hiring manager wants to hear this: They'll know that you're already imagining yourself in the position. Hiring managers are looking for serious job candidates. They're not looking for candidates who don't care what they'll be doing day to day because those are usually the same candidates who are only interested in a paycheck.

What their answer will tell you: It's simple. You'll find out what a typical day in this position looks like. Don't like what you hear? That's probably a red flag. But if you like what the hiring manager says, that's a good indication that you'll be happy working the job.

5. Do You Expect The Main Responsibilities For This Position To Change In The Next Six Months To A Year?


Woman shakes the hiring manager's hand before her job interview

Why a hiring manager wants to hear this: You're seeing if there is potential to stay at the company long term, either in the job you applied for or in a different position if you get promoted. They want to know if you hope to stay at the company for longer than one or two years because it costs employers a lot of money to hire new employees. They might get the impression that you'll be a loyal employee.

What their answer will tell you: It'll tell you whether you'll be expected to do tasks you weren't originally hired for or not. If the hiring manager says the main responsibilities for the position will change, you can ask them to elaborate. Do the changes align with your career goals? Is that how you want to grow in the company, in your career? If not, you probably won't see any long-term career potential there, and it might be best if you look for a job elsewhere.

Never leave a job interview without asking the hiring manager a few questions. If you don't ask at least one of the questions above, hiring managers might choose the candidate who does (if all else is equal). Just remember to ask the questions you really want to know the answers to, the questions that will help you decide whether or not you want to work for the company.

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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Top 5 Questions Hiring Managers Expect You …



As a candidate, can you really say you “enjoy” a job interview? From the moment you walk into the room, it’s the interviewer asking the questions and setting the agenda. You feel like a deer in the headlights.

This fear comes from feeling like you are not in control.

Take Back Control — Nicely!


Man smiles while the interviewer / hiring manager reads his resume during a job interview

It doesn’t have to be that way. When you attend a job interview, you are attending a sales meeting and selling your flagship product: yourself!

Do salespeople sit and wait for their customers to ask questions about their product, hoping they ask the right ones? No! They ask questions themselves! This is how they find out what their customers' needs are so that they can present their product as the solution that meets these needs.

If you’re in a job interview, you need to do the same!

How Can I Do It?


Woman listens to the interviewer's / hiring manager's question during a job interview

Interviews normally follow the same format. The interviewer starts the meeting with a few words of introduction. They tell you something about the position. (Usually, it’s on the job description, which you have already studied in detail.) Then they will ask you questions. They will give you about five minutes at the end of the interview to ask questions yourself.

If you let them follow this plan, your opportunity to really influence the conversation will be in the last five minutes of the interview. That is too late.

To turn your interview into a sales conversation, you need to ask your questions while the interviewer is telling you about the company and the job.

A sales professional asks questions to find out what the customer might need from his product. You need to find out what the employer needs from this position.

Try asking questions like this:

“Ms. X, can you tell me how this position contributes to the company’s success?”

If you want to be more direct, you could ask:

“Ms. X, what problem does this position solve for the company?” or “What need does this position fulfill?”

Watch the interviewer’s reaction as they answer the question. If the interviewer seems happy to answer the question and gives you an in-depth answer, then you can ask for more details. Be sure to say, however, “I’m sorry for interrupting your flow,” and then ask the question.

One word of caution. NEVER say: “I’m sorry for interrupting your flow, but...”

The “but” is the killer. It communicates the idea that your apology was for nothing and that you didn’t mean it.

Use That Information!


Man treats his interview like a sales conversation

Once you get this information, refer back to it when you answer the interviewer’s questions.

If the interviewer asks you about your experience solving technical issues with customers, you can answer his question by saying: “That sounds a lot like what I would be doing for your customers. Am I right?”

If the interviewer asks you about your knowledge or experience, answer with: “I did something similar to what we were saying earlier about…” and then expand on your knowledge and experience as appropriate.

By referring back to the purpose of the position / problem it solves, this gives you the chance to position yourself as the candidate who is the solution to this problem.

Limitations


Man listens to the interviewer / hiring manager during a job interview

​You need to know your interviewer:

Many jobs require multiple interviews with different interviewers. Each interviewer may perceive the role from a different perspective, so be ready to ask this question multiple times, and get different answers from different people.

If you are in a later interview, your interviewer may question why you are asking this again. Respond by explaining that different interviewers have different perceptions of the role and you want to be sure you are on the same page.

Your interviewer may not be comfortable with the question:

Not all interviewers have been trained to interview candidates. They don’t always want to be doing this and they may think that they have better things to do with their time.

If their answers to your question are short, or they refuse to answer, then don’t press it. You might want to think about their reaction, however. The question is not unreasonable. Why would they refuse to answer it?

If they don’t want to interview you, then they don’t want you as a colleague.

If they think you should shut up and answer the questions and “know your place,” that’s the kind of company you’ll end up working at.

If they haven’t got the time to handle one simple question from you, then you have to ask how serious the position is or how serious the company is in recruiting someone for it.

They Are Buying You, But You Are Also Buying Them.


Man shakes hands with the interviewer / hiring manager after a job interview

This question is sometimes the human equivalent of a “ping” test: software engineers send a signal to a website/server, etc. The response he gets back tells him a lot about the connection.

When you ask this question, watch your interviewer carefully.

Don’t just listen to her answer. Watch her behavior.

This can tell you a lot about what kind of people you will be working with.

Let me know how you get on!

Further reading...

For more ideas about reading people’s behavior, please check out: Reading People’s Emotions: A Beginner’s Guide

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Why Not Handle A Job Interview Like …



Want to get hired? Of course you do! Employers nowadays are looking for a more holistic group of skill sets in the people they hire. It's not enough to just deliver on your core skills anymore.

What will make you most valuable and have the most impact at a company is a combination of your core, personal, and intangible (soft) skills.

Here are six intangible skills that can get you hired today and certainly again in the future:

1. Adaptability


The "relentlessly changing" world we live in requires its workers to be able to flow with change, adapt to change, and navigate change with a can-do attitude. Those who can adapt the best to personal, policy, and leadership change will be valuable assets to their work teams and workplace.

2. Team Player


Woman greets hiring manager during a job interview

The most successful sports franchises all have a balance of veteran, experienced, and rookie players. Working together with people of different generations, cultures, and demographics is a coveted intangible skill that will become more and more important as the workplace becomes more culturally diverse.

Your "human relations" skills—be it developing rapport, listening, motivating others, or delegating with respect—will be what makes you an important part of any team.

3. Leadership


Man displays intangible skills at work while talking to his coworker

Owning the job you have and making things better and more effective, instead of just showing up daily to do the same thing, is an intangible that will make you stand out. You don't have to be the "owner," president, manager, or CEO to show leadership.

Just look at all the employees honored for their work in the awesome program "Undercover Boss." Most of these workers just have a strong sense of personal pride and work ethic, regardless of their personal lives of showing up to do a great job and making a difference every day.

4. Multi-Tasker


Woman uses her intangible skills at work during a meeting

This is pretty simple. The workplace requires people to do more tasks and take on more responsibility than ever before. Expect it and get prepared for it.

Certainly, this should have realistic boundaries. It's important for you to find work-life balance in whatever position you land. You don't want to experience career burnout.

5. Open-Mindedness


Man talks about his intangible skills during a job interview / work meeting

Being open and flexible to learning new skills and approaches, interacting with new people, and trying new ways of doing things shows resilience and perseverance to do whatever it takes to do the job and get it done.

Nobody wants to hire someone who's stuck in their ways. In the interview process, it's important to come across as open-minded and coachable, especially if the company values a dynamic work environment.

6. Positivity


Coworkers talk about their intangible skills at work

"Whistle while you work." Nothing is more attractive and powerful than someone who is a bright spot in anyone's day and shows up with a positive attitude of gratitude. Leave the personal, heavy stuff at home and come to work ready to greet colleagues and customers and make their day brighter.

You can talk about your intangibles through specific personal stories that demonstrate how you used them. Nothing beats a great, real story that gets people to relate to you. This can be a huge competitive advantage in addition to documenting achievement and accomplishment in your core skills.

If you need some help discovering some of your intangibles, think about three jobs where you took on a project, made it your own, and were successful. Ask some of your current or past colleagues to tell you what they think your intangible skills are. If you need to practice, volunteer outside of work or ask your boss to give you a small project that can stretch you!

In today's job-seeking world, there are your core skills, personal skills, and intangible (soft) skills. More often, if it comes down to you and someone else, the person who has the intangibles usually wins! What are the intangible skills that have impacted your jobs?

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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6 Intangible Skills That Can Get You …



As the job search advances, one of the top questions becomes "what salary do I ask for?" So, let's talk about salary!

When a candidate meets a company and falls in love with their dream job, they need to have some awkward conversations before they can commit to each other. Salary is one of those conversations.

But talking about salary doesn't have to be awkward!

The important thing is to be prepared. You need to do your homework and understand what's fair. The last thing you want to do is to price yourself out of a job because you didn't know you asked for too much. Or worse, sell yourself short because you didn't ask for enough. It's business time…so, let's get down to business.

Here are some things you should know before you talk about salary:

The Essentials Of Salary Discussions


1. Always Be Prepared

You never know when an employer will bring up the salary question—it could be in the job application or it could be during your final job interview. That's why you want to be prepared for it. Know your numbers before you apply for the position so you're not caught off guard.

2. Don't Be The One To Bring It Up First

A common mistake people make during the hiring process is bringing up salary too soon. This can hurt your chances of getting the job offer because the employer might think you're only in it for the money. Wait until the employer brings it up, then go from there.

3. Know What's Competitive

Do your homework. Know what's competitive for that role in that industry. You can use websites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and Salary.com to research competitive salary rates for similar positions.

4. Know Your "Walk-Away" Rate

After you do your research, you'll have an idea of both the highest and lowest salaries for similar roles in your field. This is an important thing to know because it will allow you to have a range to work with during negotiations (i.e., it will give you some wiggle room). When you're thinking about your range, it's important to know your "walk-away" rate. This is the absolute lowest offer you will accept without eating Ramen noodles for the rest of your life. You don't want to take an offer that's not going to pay you enough to live comfortably. Otherwise, you'll likely be on the job search again looking for a role that pays you more money. However, you do want to understand the going salary rates for that position so you don't a) price yourself out of the job, or b) sell yourself short.

Other Important Factors To Consider During Salary Negotiations


Job seeker negotiates salary with human resources professional during a job interview

5. Don't Limit Yourself To Money

While you should aim to get a competitive salary, don't focus only on the money. You can negotiate for other things too, like work-from-home opportunities, flextime, vacation days, and other perks. It depends on what's most important to you. Again, this will give you some wiggle room during negotiations.

6. Give Them A Reason To Give You More

In order to get the salary you want, you need to prove that you'll be a valuable asset to the company and that your unique skills/experiences make you the best fit for the role. You need to show them that you're worth the investment.

What To Do When Salary Negotiations Get Tough


Woman negotiates a better salary during a job interview

7. Don't Be Afraid Of 'No'

During salary negotiations, it's okay to say "no" to a job offer if it's not in line with what you feel is appropriate based on your research and needs. Remember, saying "no" opens up negotiations. Also, if the employer says "no" to your counteroffer, it doesn't mean he or she isn't willing to work with you to find something that works for both parties (that's why they call it negotiating!). This is why you do so much prep work in the beginning. If you know your numbers, have a "walk-away" rate, and demonstrate your value to the employer, you're more likely to negotiate an offer that works for you. If not, it might not be the right opportunity for you at this point. Your dream job is still out there, you just haven't found it yet,

8. Chill!

Yes, salary negotiations can be stressful. However, it's a big part of the hiring process. If you choose to forgo the negotiation process because you're afraid, you risk selling yourself short. Don't do that to yourself! If you get nervous, try practicing your negotiating skills with a friend or a career coach. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll get doing it.

See? You can do this whole salary dance! And it doesn't have to be awkward. As long as you apply these tips, you don't have to worry about salary negotiations, and you'll able to answer the "what salary do I ask for" question with ease.

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.


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How To Talk About Salary (Without It …



If you are over 40, have a big skill set, and are struggling to get hired, you've come to the right place. I work with thousands of people who have big skill sets and can't get hired. What's going on? What can you do to stand out in the hiring process and land a job?

When you're networking and interviewing as a seasoned professional, you're probably giving employers the wrong impression because you're sitting there telling them all your skills, all the things you can do for them, and making it sound like you're a Jack or Jill of all trades. And while you think that's what they want to hear because you're thinking, "I'm the best bang for the buck," that's not what they're hearing. What they're hearing is that you're narcissistic. You're a know-it-all. You're going to be difficult to work with, and you're probably going to leave for more money anyway.

Employers don't want that headache.

Now, here's how you fix that...

Best Tips For Job Seekers Over 40


@j.t.odonnell Replying to @luvmy2goldens over 40 job search tips! #over40 #over50 #careeradvice #jobsearch #interviewtips ♬ original sound - J.T. O'Donnell

1. Ask, don't tell.

You want to listen twice as much as you talk in your interviews. The way you do that is by asking great questions.

Examples:

  • How does this job support your work?
  • What about your work is keeping you up at night?
  • What would I need to do in this job to make your life easier?

You really want to get at their pain point and how the job supports them. But you're also sending a message, and that message is, "I get it. I'm the service provider. You're the customer, You're the leader. And I'm going to make sure that you're happy." That's the mindset they need to hear.

2. Make it clear that it's an equitable partnership.

By "equitable partnership" I mean you need to point out all the things they have to offer that you really want because you don't want them worrying that you might leave. You need to talk about the skills you'll be able to develop there, the knowledge you'll gain, and the opportunities you'll have that you won't have anywhere else. You need to hype them up and say, "You have so much to offer me here. This is the place I want to be. You are at top of my bucket list. This is the place I want to spend years at." And you've got to make them see that as well.

Between asking great questions so you're not overselling yourself and also making employers realize that they're exactly what you want, that's how you're going to get the results that you're looking for. Those are my best tips for job seekers over 40. Give them a try.

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Over 40 & Struggling To Get Hired? …



How you communicate with employers after an interview is an important, but often understated, step in the interview process. Most of the career advice surrounding job interviews discusses how to land an interview, and what to do when you get one.

We're here to help you in that difficult (and sometimes lonely!) stage after a job interview when you're not sure where you stand in the employer's eyes.

Here are two ways you should follow up with an employer after a job interview:

1. Send A Thank-You Note


This piece of job search advice is common. Yet, executing a good thank-you note is harder than it looks.

You should send a thank-you note to a potential employer within 24 hours after your job interview. And, since the hiring manager is probably really busy, it's best to send an email, not a handwritten note.

In your note, it's not enough just to say "thank you." You should also explain why you're thankful for the opportunity to interview at the company. Mention specific details from the interview if you can—about the company, meeting members of the team, and the position itself.

During the interview, make it a goal to remember the names of everyone you shake hands with. Then, you can drop the names of the people you met in your thank-you note.

This will show the employer that you pay attention to the details and have already connected with the people at the company you'd be working with if you get the job.

Lastly, end your thank-you note by reiterating why you believe you'd be a great fit for the job, and express your excitement about the opportunity to work there.

A well-written and thoughtful thank-you note like this will definitely stand out to hiring managers.

2. Send A Follow-Up Email


Man on laptop sends a follow-up email after a job interview

After you send your thank-you note, the waiting begins.

It's in your best interest to follow up one to two weeks after your interview. The only exception is if the employer gives you a certain time frame of when to expect to hear back from them. If given a time frame, don't follow up before then.

When you do decide to follow up with an employer, a short, concise email is the way to go.

Ask if there's anything else the hiring manager needs from you. Reiterate your excitement for the opportunity. And finally, close the email with a forward-looking statement, and another "thank you."

Communication with a potential employer after a job interview is an integral part of the hiring process. You don't want to annoy them, but you need to convey your enthusiasm and excitement for the opportunity at the same time.

By following up in these two ways, you'll stand out as an eager and proactive applicant, one with communication skills that will help you shine in any position.

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How To Correctly Follow Up After An …



Your cover letter and resume have made a positive impression on a potential employer, and they've called you in for an interview. Now, you need to ensure the employer stays impressed with you and your potential in their organization.

There's an old saying first impressions count—and there's no better instance of the truth to this than the impressions made during a job interview. A variety of factors are in effect. It may include the way you are dressed, how you communicate, your personality, and a number of other considerations.

It takes a lot to develop a positive impression, and very little to leave one that does not work in your favor during a job interview.

Here are 10 common mistakes that can ruin any job interview (if you're not careful):

1. Arriving Late


Everyone's time is valuable. Show respect and do not waste other people's time.

Of course, sometimes things pop up and cause unexpected delays. Try to plan ahead so you don't arrive late. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the interview location. Make sure you have an outfit ready the night before, so you're not scrambling five minutes before you're supposed to be heading out the door.

If there is an unexpected delay, at the very least, give a call to apologize and inform your contact of your expected arrival time.

2. Jumping Into The Discussion Of Pay And Benefits


Woman asks about pay and benefits during a job interview

There will be a time for this discussion—generally not in the first interview, unless the employer brings it up themselves. You do not want to appear as though all you care about is, "What's in it for me?"

At the same time, approaching the topic of salary is especially risky. You may end up putting yourself in a position where you are asked to present a desired salary and fall under what the company hadn't anticipated. Learn more about the position and conduct research before going into the salary discussion.

3. Answering Your Phone


Man answers his phone during a job interview

Show respect by letting your employer know this interview is more important than any call, text, or notification. Turn off your cell phone. If you forget and it rings, apologize and turn it off.

4. Talking Badly About Your Previous Or Current Employer


Woman badmouths her current employer during a job interview

Regardless of the reality of the situation, never talk badly about your current or previous employer(s). It brings to question if you will do the same with this potential employer in the future.

If they ask why you are leaving your current job, be honest, take ownership of the situation, and focus on the future.

5. Being Brief, Hiding From Questions, Or Talking Too Much


Job candidate listens to a question during an interview

Just as you want to learn about the employer, the employer wants to learn about you. At the same time, you don't want to be the only one talking throughout the interview. You also don't want to be too brief with your answers. You'll come off as unenthusiastic and uninterested in the position.

Learn to listen and have a balanced conversation where you both have a chance to receive information and ask questions.

6. Not Asking Questions


Man doesn't ask questions during his job interview

Regardless of how thorough the interview discussion is, when asked, "Do you have any questions for me?" always have a question. Preferably two or three.

When you do not have a question, it may come across as though you are not sincerely interested in the opportunity.

7. Dressing Inappropriately


Man dressed inappropriately for a job interview

Your appearance includes not just what you wear but how you groom yourself. Employers will not be impressed with a sloppy appearance. You need to appear and dress the part of what is expected of the position.

We recommend dressing one level up from the employees who work at the company. If the workplace culture is casual, wear something that's business casual. You should look like you want the job, while also appearing like you'd fit in.

8. Being Unprepared


Man stressed out during a job interview

Conduct research so you have at least a general sense of the type of business the company is in and what the position you are applying for is about. The hiring manager will know right away whether or not you're clueless about the job you applied for.

With thorough research, you will be able to better tailor your questions and answers during the job interview.

9. Lying


Woman lies to the hiring managers during a job interview

False information can lead to immediate disqualification and exemplify your weaknesses. You will most likely be blacklisted by the company, too.

Lying on your resume or during a job interview is never a good idea.

10. Being Inattentive


Man listens to the hiring manager during a job interview

Carefully listen to what the interviewer is saying and show you are attentive. You do not want to appear disinterested and come off as inattentive. It is not a desirable characteristic for any position.

If you're not interested in them, they won't be interested in you.

Most candidates will only receive one opportunity to make a good impression. Make sure the one you leave is as positive as possible by avoiding these 10 common mistakes during your next interview.

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10 Mistakes That Can Ruin Any Interview



Job seekers spend hours drafting their cover letters and contacting different companies, hoping to get a job interview. A smart job seeker knows the common interview questions a hiring manager will ask in a job interview and will prepare answers accordingly. Anticipating and crafting interview questions and answers gives you the best shot at making a good impression.

Usually, employers ask a common set of questions. So, we're going to share some important points regarding those questions and how you should respond to them. Here are five smart tips for answering interview questions:

Do Not Be Impulsive When Answering Questions


Different hiring managers speak at different speeds. Allow the hiring manager to complete the question and listen to each and every word carefully. Some questions start off similar to other questions but demand different responses.

For example, an employer might ask you, "What skills do you have to deal with a customer?" Here, if you listen to only the first part, that is, "What skills do you have…?" you will end up giving a wrong answer.

Take A Pause Before Answering A Question


A job applicant speaks calmly during her job interview

Wait a few seconds after the employer stops speaking to make sure you heard the complete question. Create a mental list of points to include in your response. Do not wander off the point, and answer directly, covering all main points of the questions. Be sure to answer all parts of the employer's question.

Respond By Stating Your Key Points


Woman answers a behavioral question in a job interview

Repeat your key points 2-3 times while answering the question. Explain how you have applied these points in your previous jobs. Finish your answer by reiterating these points. This will highlight your skills and reinforce your case to the employer as the ideal person for the job.

Tell The Interviewer Something Unique About Yourself


A job seeker tells his interviewer a unique story about himself while answering an interview question

If you are good at creative things like graphic designing, essay writing, event planning, and so on, then you should definitely let them know about your extraordinary skills. It's important to leave the interviewer with a lasting impression.

Each response must tell the interviewer something new. For example, when you answer questions like, "Tell me about yourself," you can start out with "As a longtime volunteer at XYZ organization..."

Some final things to keep in mind while going through the job interview...

Listen carefully to your interviewer. It does not matter if you get the job or not, an interviewer is giving you an opportunity for professional growth and therefore deserves respect. Put your phone on "silent mode" before going into your job interview. A ringing tone or message alert may distract you and the interviewer from the discussion.

If you remember these tips during your next job interview, you'll impress the hiring manager and stand out as a smart, capable, and qualified job candidate. Never underestimate the power of good interview questions and answers!

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4 Smart Tips For Answering Job Interview …



When you have an employer calling and saying they want to schedule a phone interview with you, that means you look good on paper and they now want to see if you are all that you say you are. The phone screen is a critical stage in the job search process because how well you communicate and perform will pave the way to the big opportunity of a meeting at their office with the decision makers.

In most instances, the phone screen is conducted by someone from HR. They'll primarily review your professionalism and communication skills to see if you are articulate, knowledgeable, and have the right experience and skills for the job.

The ultimate mission is to screen out candidates so that the ones who are invited for an in-person interview are the best in the bunch. So, here's how you can ace the phone screen:

1. Watch Your Intonation & Build Rapport


Your intonation and body language account for 90% of the effectiveness of your communications. If you are on the phone with no video, your intonation is all you have so be enthusiastic and try to build rapport as people hire people they like.

At this point in the process, the screener is also looking to clear up any questions or hesitation they may have about you from reviewing your resume. Be aware of anything on your resume that may be a red flag and prepare to respond to it without coming off as defensive.

You want to be honest and address any concerns, but also know how to steer the response to something more positive that brings back the message of "this is what I have to offer that you need."

2. Dress The Part And Talk The Part


Woman listens during a phone screen

Are you struggling with confidence before your phone screen? Wear your favorite interview outfit. The one you know you look good in. You'll feel confident and professional.

Also, today's "phone screens" don't necessarily mean just voice. Many employers may request a virtual interview, so be prepared to not only talk the part but dress the part too.

How you look and sound leaves an impression, just like it would from an in-person meeting. Express energy and enthusiasm in your tone.

3. Speak Of Accomplishments When Asked About Previous Jobs And Responsibilities


Job seeker on a phone screen

Employers asking about your past experience aren't looking for a description of your job. If you want to impress, you need to speak of accomplishments and success and how those experiences have prepared you to contribute and bring success to future employers.

Quantify your experience. Do your research and talk to the need that the job posting highlights and then talk about how you've been there, done that, and can directly contribute to the employer's needs.

4. Be Prepared To Handle The Offbeat Question


Woman answers a difficult interview question during a phone screen

Some phone screens have standard questions directed toward your experience and skills, but there are also employers who may put you on the spot with a scenario to see how you react and respond.

The important thing is to not let these types of questions rattle or stump you. Keep a can-do attitude. Make sure you know your experiences, accomplishments, skills, and strengths like the back of your hand. Also, know how you can help the company reach its goals. It'll be hard to stump you when you've done your research.

5. Be Ready To Talk About Salary Requirements


Man aces his phone screen

You will be asked this to see if you are in their salary range. This can be tricky because if you present a number below what the employer has budgeted, you lose any chance of securing a higher salary, one the employer may (or would) have considered. And if you present a number that is too high, the employer may decide to dismiss your application and resume even before you have had the chance to make your case in an interview.

The best way to respond to a question about salary during a phone screen is to say, "Although the job and the challenge are most important to me, you should know that I am considering a salary in the XX to YY range." If you make it through the interview process to the last round of interviews, you'll also want to hone your salary negotiation skills.

Each employer will have a different method of screening applicants over the phone. But with these tips, you'll be prepared for whatever comes your way.

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5 Tips For Nailing Your Next Phone …