6 Tips to Help You Get the Job!

March 14, 2019

“I got the job!” 

Those four words were music to my ears.

“I am so excited and incredibly grateful for all of your advice and guidance to help bring the best me possible,”  Sarah (not her real name) continued. “I truly appreciate it.”

Sarah was getting ready to graduate from a major university in a few months and was feeling stressed because she hadn’t landed a position yet.  “I get called for interviews, and sometimes I’m confident, but other times I get so nervous,” said Sarah.

She had two important interviews coming up, so our goal was to prepare her for them.  Over four coaching sessions, we worked on strengthening her interviewing skills.  The process involved making sure she was confident in answering and asking questions, as well as providing techniques that would enhance her executive presence.  We also made minor changes to both her resume and LinkedIn account.

The job she wanted most was for a management trainee program, and the interview for that job involved participating in all-day meetings and preparing and giving a formal presentation based on a question the company provided in advance.  This type of interview can be a challenge even for the experienced.

To fully prepare for the interviews, Sarah left no stone unturned. Here’s some of the preparation that helped her get the offers:

1. Research the Company—Make sure you understand the business and anticipate the kinds of questions the interviewer may ask.  Research includes doing a Google search, as well as reviewing the company’s website (press releases, media), as well as its competitors.  Also, research the backgrounds of people who will be interviewing you via LinkedIn.
2. Prepare for Potential Questions—Anticipating potential questions in advance will help you prepare polished responses.  Don’t try to wing it!  Also, make sure you are prepared to ask questions related to organizational culture and any other information that might help you decide if this is the company for you.  Remember, it’s a two-way conversation.
3. Share Experiences—No one has time to hear your life story.  Create concise soundbites regarding your relevant experience and transferable skills.  Remember, the reason most people don’t get the job is because they haven’t provided a convincing story as to what makes them the perfect candidate. 
4. Practice! Practice! Practice!—I worked with Sarah on potential questions and responses.  I also was able to make her aware of how she was coming across through her speech and body language.  Consider doing a practice interview with friends or family members who have experience interviewing.
5. Review Your Social Media—Prospective employers often look at social media when considering a candidate.  Google yourself to see what pops up and delete any embarrassing information that could impact the decision with a prospective employer. 
6. Be Confident—Knowing she already had a backup offer made Sarah even more confident to go for the one she really wanted.  Also, I advised her to dress in the outfit that made her feel the most confident and, before the interview, to take a few deep breaths to calm her body down.

We’ve all been there when we just needed a little help.  I’m proud that Sarah got the job and wish her the best in her new career.  By following some of these tips, you will be better prepared and more confident for your interviews.