Interview Tips from Denise Grier

Here is a reprint of an interesting article by Denise Grier from Leadership Turn, Five Steps to a Successful Interview.

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I hope this doesn’t sound like bragging, but in 35 years I can’t remember NOT landing a job I really wanted. I feel that qualifies me to offer you advice on landing the job that YOU really want.

Of course, unless you have inside connections, maybe your father owns the company, you can’t get the job without first acing the interview. Here are ten steps to make that happen:

Dress for Success: First impressions mean everything. No matter how smart you are, or how qualified for the job you might be, if your appearance is not up to par it could sour the deal. I covered this extensively in my post, “Tips for the First Time Speaker.” The same rules apply.

Be on Time: This goes without saying, but I read on a forum not long ago a post from a man who said he had a girl call him twice, late for her interview, with one excuse or another. Needless to say, he didn’t hire her. Punctuality is tantamount. If you can’t make it to the interview on time how can you make it to work on time?

Make Eye Contact and Offer a Firm Handshake: To me, this is one of the most important aspects of the interview. I spoke in another post about charisma. This is your chance to let yours shine. And make sure you make eye contact and offer a firm handshake both in the beginning of the interview and at the end. You want to be remembered, and by presenting yourself coming and going as someone polite, professional, and confident you will definitely accomplish this.

Be Yourself: When I mention that I am nervous about a meeting, an interview, or a date, and friends tell me just to by myself, I always say,
“Who’s better qualified?” There is only one you, and that automatically elevates you to the level of unique! Don’t be concerned that your interviewer might find you too eager, too laid back, too this or too that. Afer all, you can pretend to be someone else, but the person who interviews you will be able to detect such deceit. Trust me.

Be Prepared: It is so very crucial that you have your resume polished, that your portfolio is professionally done and up to date, and that you have taken the time to consider any questions that you may be asked during your interview. Some of these questions could be about your past performance, your personal references, why you feel you are the person for the job, what you can bring to the table, etc. Don’t despair if a question comes out of left field. If you are have done a good job in previous positions, if you really are qualifed and want this job; if you show enthusiasm, you should be able to handle whatever comes your way during the interview.

I honestly believe that by using these tips you will be able to ace your next job interview and be the person who is hired.