I’ve observed hundreds of interviews and candidates who have trouble succinctly answering the interviewers’ questions nearly always fail to advance in the process, regardless of their credentials. Here are some signs that you are having trouble focusing your answers:
If you feel compelled to ask the interviewer if you answered the question, chances are you did not. Often candidates will give a longwinded answer and then, at the end ask, “Did I answer your question?” If you feel that you really must ask this, try rephrasing it this way: “Can I provide you with more specific information with respect to any of the areas I touched upon?”
If the interviewer gently (or not so gently) reminds you that they have a lot of questions and a short period of time, you are likely rambling or taking too long to answer a question. If this happens, it is not fatal as long as you take corrective action. Apologize and then shorten and focus your responses. Interviews are very stressful, but the good news is that most interview panels recognize this and appreciate it when you take the corrective action. I suggest taking the time to practice answers to questions you know you are likely to encounter such as:
- Tell us why you are interested in this position.
- Tell us about your management style.
- Tell us what you know about our organization.
- Tell us about your most challenging management problem and how you solved it.
You do not want to sound rehearsed, but you should give some thought in advance to how you would answer very predictable questions. Bring along a pad of paper, preferably in a notebook and jot down some key accomplishments you want to be sure you convey to the interview panel. The notebook will also come in handy if you are asked a three part question. Interview panels are often impressed with the candidate who jotted down parts of the question so they could keep track as they answered it. If you find that you did not have a chance to bring up a key accomplishment in the interview, then ask at the end of the interview if you can make a brief closing comment. You can work in your accomplishment at that point. Or you can include it in a “take away…” More on “take aways” next week! Remember when interviewing to always make eye contact and exhibit energy and excitement for the position!
written by Heidi Voorhees, President, Voorhees Associates, LLC