Net-Temps - The Job Interview - Opportunity or Dreaded Event?

The Job Interview - Opportunity or Dreaded Event?

Job interviews — most people cringe at the thought. Interviews top the list of dreaded activities along with having a root canal, public speaking and cleaning the cat box. Yet we can find ourselves in a position to interview at a moment’s notice. The loss of a job, an opportunity for a promotion and the necessity to transfer all trigger an interviewing event. Are you prepared? Do you have an up-todate resume? Have you put in the "thought time" to be able to respond intelligently to interview questions?

In some ways, we’re always interviewing, or at least we should be. As we perform our regular jobs, we run into "career moments of truth" on a daily basis. Potential bosses or future employers are lurking around many corners, both at work and after work. If we’re aware and prepared, we can seize these opportunities. Interestingly enough, the same activities that are necessary to prepare for a great interview are also necessary to capitalize on opportunities that may come up on a daily basis.

The preparation required to be at the top of your game and ready for anything (in a career sense) falls into two categories: mental preparation and career planning preparation. Just as in any competition, your mental preparation is essential for a successful interview. Here are some thought starters.

Mental Preparation

Accept the notion that an interviewing opportunity could come up at any time and that the time to prepare is now.

Explore the possibility that you are really always interviewing. Potential managers could be evaluating your performance on a daily basis. It would be difficult and awkward to talk about your timeliness in an interview when that manager has continually observed your tardiness!

Be on the lookout for interviewing opportunities. To stay fresh and current, challenge yourself to seek an interviewing opportunity as least once or twice a year.

Embrace networking opportunities. Many people shy away from networking events; however, extending your circle of professional friends is a must. Planning for a Great Interview Congratulations, you’ve secured an interview. Don’t panic. A little planning and preparation will ensure that you put your best foot forward.

Research the job and company thoroughly. Make a list of the three important facts about the company and the job. Bring this list to the interview, and incorporate your findings into the conversation.

Prepare a list of three questions about the job and the organization. Ask questions that demonstrate your understanding of the company. Ask about departmental priorities, current issues and values. Insightful questions take the focus off of yourself and put it on to the core of the job.

Anticipate the questions that will be asked. Prepare your answers in advance. Ask a trusted friend to conduct a "mock interview" with you. Be sure to ask for feedback.

Draft an action plan outlining how you would approach the job in the first 90 days. How would you prioritize your time? What areas would you improve or change? What problems would you solve? This exercise will ensure that your answers to interview questions are forward thinking and relevant to the task at hand.

Cover the basics. Arrive early, bring your notes, and be prepared to take notes. Dress appropriately, bring extra copies of your resume, prepare some "ice breaker" questions to ease the tension. And remember to smile.

Create a career portfolio that includes your "career evidence." A career portfolio can include sample projects, awards, certificates, letters of recommendation or any other evidence to back up your resume.

Remember the "48-Hour Rule." To solidify your standing in the interviewer’s mind, follow up within 48 hours with a thank you note or additional information. It is important to demonstrate a desire for the position. If there are two top candidates, this approach can differentiate you. With a small mental shift, interviewing can go from a dreaded event to an opportunity.

The key is planning and preparation. Good luck, and enjoy that new job!

-Lisa Magnuson
Lisa D. Magnuson is the author of the popular book "The 48-Hour Rule and other strategies for career survival." To learn more or to contact Lisa, please visit www.the48hourrule.com

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The Job Interview - Opportunity or Dreaded Event?