INTERVIEWING STRATEGIES

WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF STRATEGY?

Having a set approach to any interaction, especially with a prospective employer, will give you confidence and control in a variety of situations. By considering various possible scenarios, you can practice being mindful of your tone, expressions, articulation, and posture when engaging in an interview.

PREPARATION TOPICS NEEDED FOR ANY INTERVIEW

Every interview has a segment that focuses entirely on you and who you are. Despite the numerous possibilities of questions, common responses can be prepared and adapted when needed. 

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1. Prepare an answer about yourself and hobbies you enjoy. Suggest a mixture of introvert and extrovert activities, even if you are more of one than the other. 

2. Choose someone who inspires you, and a quote that demonstrates how you connect to them. A relative or a friend is a poor choice since your interviewer is unlikely to be able to relate to such individuals. 

3. Pick three strengths. For example: Takes initiative, team-oriented, and strong communication skills. It helps to relate your strengths back to your professional experience for emphasis.

4. Pick three weaknesses that you have improved on or overcome. Acknowledging your weaknesses shows humility, and taking action demonstrates initiative. 

5. Choose a job title you may aspire for in five years. Don't worry, this career goal does not need to be set in stone. It shows you have some idea of what direction you may want your life to take. 

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Suggestion: Write or type short hand answers, and bring them with you to the interview. Notes will give you confidence in case you get a bit nervous. 

I AM AN INTROVERT

There is a common misconception that introverts struggle in the work place. This is false. Introverts tend to have a higher skill set for listening, analysis, and organization. More so, introverts can be more approachable than a boisterous extrovert. You do not have to change who you are to get a job, or to be successful. Keep the following in mind:

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1. Introverts do well in research, project management, development, or back-end administrative roles.

2. When articulating recluse behaviors, bolster it with descriptions such as "focus, engaged, deadline oriented." This makes it less about not being around people and more about needing a focused environment to complete important projects and tasks.

3. Although reading, drawing, and painting are great hobbies, include one extroverted activity such as going to the beach, jazz clubs, hiking, etc. Your hobbies still need to open the door for the interviewer to be able to relate to you. 

4. Never outright say you don't like to be around people. This creates negative energy, and could kill promotion possibilities down the road. You never know how you may change as an individual.

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Suggestion: As introvert, you may not be a strong talker. Practice projection by reading books or poetry aloud, while standing or walking. Avoid a situation where the interviewer asks you to speak up. 

I AM AN EXTROVERT

Is there an advantage to being social and outspoken? Definitely. Many careers paths are dependent on who you know, aka. networking. Yet, being an extrovert is a double-edged sword. Depending on your ambitions, being quick to speak your mind or take charge can give you the jump start you need, or can drown you before you take a step in the door. Keep the following in mind:

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1. First and foremost, learn how to actively listen. This sounds like a simple concept, but it is a skill set many sorely lack. 

2. Remember, being follower is just as important as being a leader. Let the interviewer or manager know you are as much there to grow as you are to achieve your goals and set the pace. 

3. Beware of rhetoric. Telling an interviewer or manager how things should be when you have been there for only a short time can label you as difficult to work with, and slow to integrate (notice, it does not say "assimilate").

4. Being an extrovert is not an excuse for being inconsistent or unorganized. Be dependable and prepared. 

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Suggestion: Practice interviewing with someone who will give you honest feedback about what type of personality you are conveying (boastful, leader, hot-tempered, etc.). This way you can adjust your answers so you present yourself in the way you want. 

HANDLING INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Whether you are introverted or extroverted, the approach to handling questions are similar.

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1. Before answering any question, ask yourself why they are asking it and what are they looking for in a response.

2. Tie every answer back to the applied role and drive home the point you are a great fit! Focus on the positive.

3. Don't be afraid to tie your hopes for the prospective company into questions about contributions, expectations, and goals.

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Very strong suggestion: Not only research common interview questions, practice answering them as well with a friend or a mirror. Practice, practice, practice. 

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PREPARING QUESTIONS

A lack of questions show a lack of interest or preparation. Also, take into consideration when certain questions should be asked. First and second round questions should be about the company and role responsibilities. Subsequent interviews can include questions about benefits and compensation. Examples are below. 

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First or second round questions

1. How would you describe the culture and/or energy in the company?

2. Why did you (interviewer) join the company?

3. What does success look like in this role?

4. What growth opportunities are available?

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Third round interview+

1. Is clear communication a priority from the top down?

2. How does the company foster a healthy work environment?

3. How are contributions acknowledged within the company?

4. What are next steps following this meeting?

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Suggestion: Don't use all your questions during the interview. Reserve at least two for the end. These questions are a great opportunity for you to take on the interviewer role and dig into your concerns about the company.