I have not written in a few months but have had the opportunity to observe dozens of additional interviews. I am sad to say that many ,many qualified candidates are not landing positions solely due to their poor interviewing skills.
Here are some comments I’ve heard from the hiring authority after the candidate leaves the room:
- “The candidate did not mention some of their most relevant experience in answering the question”. We all get nervous at an interview and think later about what we could have added or should have said. One tip is to jot down three or four significant accomplishments you believe the interviewers should know about you. It is absolutely fine to refer to your notes. If you are not asked questions that elicited those answers, ask if you can make a quick statement at the end of the interview – then do so — be succinct and indicate you have some additional accomplishments you want to be sure they are aware of.
- “The candidate did not make eye contact.” I hear this all the time. Be sure when you enter and leave the interview that you shake each person’s hand, look them in the eye and smile. Then, be sure you are making eye contact around the table as you answer the question. Speaking of answering the question…
- “The candidate did not answer several of the questions.” You may have talked a lot but you may not have answered the questions. Be sure you listen carefully, answer the question, provide an example relevant to your experience, if appropriate, and end your answer.
- “The candidate fiddled with their water bottle, their cell phone, etc – it was distracting!” Fold your hands in front of you and keep your forearms on the table – this will ensure that you are leaning into the interview and appear as engaged as you are (no leaning back in your chair!) And never, ever, ever answer or look at your cell phone. Turn it completely off so it does not buzz or vibrate!
- “I am not sure the candidate even visited our website – they did not seem that interested in the job!” Displaying excitement for the position is still the number one reason candidates do not get the job they are seeking. Be sure that you do your research (it is easier than ever before) and incorporate your research into your answers. If you visited the community as a part of your research, be sure and tell your interviewer.
See the home page of our website for the Top Ten Tips on Writing a Resume and on Interviewing!