The Small Things Still Matter - Interviewing.
I read an interesting article that examined how the average survey of Americans that is focused on social trends from any outlet reports an increase in “feelings of loneliness and isolation” and “a distrust in information found online.” Likewise, we see AI being pushed into every facet of our lives while similar surveys report that Americans prefer having someone to talk to vs AI-generated customer service. As things continue to change and improve in certain areas while declining in others, it is important to remember that certain small steps you can take before, during, and after an interview still have a profound impact. Let’s look at a few that will help you stand out from other candidates who, like many, have left these in the dust.
First, do your homework! We live in an era where information and data are easier to grab than ever before. Stop looking at social media and go to the company’s website. What do they say about themselves? What do they advertise? More and more, companies are advertising their environmental and sustainability impact, what they are doing in their local communities, and who their employees are outside of work. Take the time to see what the company has been up to and if you have more connections or interests in common than you may have realized. This will help you make a personal connection during the interview while demonstrating that you are a person who does their homework. That always leaves a positive mark!
Dress for success. In this era of being casual, show the Hiring Manager that you care about this opportunity. That is the message that you convey by putting on your best outfit, beginning the meeting by shaking their hand and making eye contact, and being engaged throughout. Many Hiring Managers tell me about how an interview can be over before it begins because the candidate doesn’t seem engaged. Oftentimes, Hiring Managers want a relaxed environment in order to facilitate a conversation rather than simply posing and answering questions. That is important, a conversation is a much better way to get to know someone. However, you still want to show them this meeting is important, and being the best dressed in the room sends a much better message than the alternative.
The lost art of the follow-up email. I wrote an article on this that will share how to construct an effective ‘thank you email’. I rarely speak in absolutes, but every Hiring Manager I work with has pointed out at least once or twice that they appreciate thank you emails, or they ask why they aren’t receiving thank you emails. The thank you email is hard to screw up, but do read my article as it will help to make sure your message leaves the correct impression. This little step that takes less than 5 minutes to complete will demonstrate how you behave on the job, that you care about the meeting you just left, that you do not want to be forgotten, and that you did listen and capture what was being conveyed.
If you are preparing for an interview and want to make sure you’re at your best, let’s set up a time to chat. We’re happy to help!
