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Things interviewers would like to tell candidates before the interview

There is always a lot of advice being dished out for job candidates preparing for an interview, telling them what to do and what to avoid.

We recently came across an interesting take on the subject, which instead discusses what interviewers wish they could convey to interviewees ahead of the interview. We’ve extracted a few points we think are particularly important to bear in mind.

Of course it all starts with compiling a strong CV that will make prospective employers take notice in seconds. Once you’ve ticked that box and get a call back for an interview, you will need to do preparation of a whole different kind.

In addition to knowing a sufficient amount about the position and the company you are interviewing at, as well as being professional and well-mannered, there are other essential points to remember. Below are some of the things interviewers would like to tell candidates before the interview, if they had the chance…

1. The employer-employee relationship starts in the interview

You obviously want to make a good first impression and part of this is establishing a real connection with the person interviewing you. Your qualifications can only take you so far, so you need to show them your personal qualities that will make you someone others would like to work with.

Let’s face it; if you slouch in your chair and don’t show enthusiasm for the job, chances are they’re not going to be as likely to hire you.

2. You will be remembered by certain “hooks“

Interviewers, especially those who meet with several different candidates, will often only remember the ones that stood out by impressions they made. It’s rare that they’ll remember a lot of what you said, but they will recall something that made you different (the “hook”). Perhaps it relates to your outfit, upbringing or career.

Either way, you want to make sure you stand out for all the right reasons and make an impact on your interviewer.

3. Treat the interview like a first date

Maybe not in a literal sense – but you want them to see the best possible version of you and the relevant skills you have to offer. Avoid being negative as much as possible, particularly when the topic of your previous job and boss comes up.

You don’t want to burn any bridges and you also don’t want to complain or whine to your interviewer. Rather focus on why you’re right for this job and use relevant examples to demonstrate this.

4. Ask lots of questions – but keep them relevant to the job

Don’t just ask questions for the sake of asking questions. Think about what matters most to you and to the business when it comes to the role at hand.

If something hasn’t come up that you would like to know so that you can assess whether the job is right for you, ask away. As long as it is still work-related, you’re good to go. It will also show you’re interested and have some initiative.

5. Tell them that you want the job (if you really do)

If, by the end of the interview, you’re confident that you’re well-suited to the job, then by all means reiterate your interest by asking for the position. Most importantly, you must be able to explain why you want the job. Delve into a specific strength or two that will prove you’re the best person to fill this role.

Article written by Kim Grove, taken from employersjobs.com’s blog.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by employersjobs.com .