HOW TO IMPRESS AT A JOB INTERVIEW: THE DO’S & DON’TS

When you think of a job interview, what comes to mind? Pant suits, a notepad and pen, with a printed resume resting in between the pages. And while some of this still apples (like wearing nice, corporate clothes), impressing a potential employer requires edge.

Yes, you want to make a good impression and show them that you ‘know your stuff.’ But think about all the other applicants walking through those doors. They’re all trying to do the same thing.

Have you heard the phrase WIFM: What’s in it for me?This is where a lot of job seekers go wrong. They focus too much on themselves – what they’ve done, what they want, what they don’t want. This needs to be flipped and focused more on what you can do for them, how you can fill what they want.

How can you go that extra step? Let’s say you’re going for a design gig in a creative agency. Forget the resume. They’ve already seen it. Instead, spend some time preparing an imaginary campaign for one of their clients (or potential clients). It matters little who and what you choose. The point is to show them that you think out of the box and you’re not like every other applicant.

Sell yourself even more through body language, as well as what you’re verbally saying. Know exactly what you want out of the role and how you can master it. Be honest, open, and drop the act. What we mean by that is actually let them get to know, feel and connect with you. This doesn’t mean you have to be casual about it. But all too often, people put on an ‘face’ that they think people want to see. Instead, get to know yourself and celebrate all parts of it, in everything you embody.

Lastly, know your audience. Learn about their company culture, major successes, and explore gaps that they’re not tapping into. This is your edge. You can match your USP to fit this, so youbecome to the solution, the stepping stone to achieve this.

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It’s not about getting just any job, but the right one, for you. This will give you clarity on the best paths to take, based on your likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses, and personality traits.

Go on, dare to go big.