Developing a Remarkable in-Person Interview
Whether you are searching for a new position in good times or recessionary times — or if you are unemployed — these interview tips could set you apart from your competition and land you the job.
If you are interested in a free 15 to 20-minute consultation, reach out to our Molloy Associates Client Partners/Recruiters — Susan Campbell, susan.campbell@molloyassoc.com, or Jim Gavaghan, jim.gavaghan@molloyassoc.com.
Interview Tips:
1. Do your homework
Prior to the interview date, perform due diligence on the company, job, and people you will be meeting with — visit websites, LinkedIn profiles, and company reviews and reach out to people. These steps will help you get a feel, not only for the job description, skills, and experience the company wants but also the culture.
Know in advance if you are interviewing for a replacement or a new position.
If it’s a replacement, ask questions about what the former employee possessed that the hiring managers want in a new hire and any additional skills or experience they are looking for.
If it’s a new position, ask questions regarding what led to the creation of the job, whose idea was it to create the position, who is handling the responsibilities now, and what the transition will be like.
If it is a management position, ask questions about the span of responsibility (direct reports, markets, assets under management, P/L, budget, etc.).
2. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare
If the interview is via video conferencing or phone, ensure the logistics are in place well in advance. Check out our latest article about video conferencing interviews.
Dress the part and know the company’s dress code. Bring copies of your resume and any other documentation you were asked to bring. Having both of these can reflect to the interviewer your professionalism and how you handle responsibility.
Know in advance if you will be asked to complete any pre-screening employment assessments, such as personality, behavioral, or competency. It may be beneficial to brush up on your knowledge with regard to these assessments using online resources.
3. During the Interview
Be cordial, professional, and engaging with everyone. A number of companies ask assistants and interns for their impressions about prospective candidates — the opinion of every employee matters, so keep this in mind. The same holds true for the opinions of recruiters (internal and external) and all HR/talent acquisition folks.
Allow the interviewer to set the stage for how the interview will go. Listen as much as you talk and be an active listener. Body language matters so be conscious of yours and the different messages you may be sending.
Bring a sense of energy and enthusiasm to the interview — be yourself but be engaging.
4. Prepare Answers to Potential Questions
Be prepared to provide an elevator speech about yourself. Know what you want, your strengths, weaknesses, and how you have overcome setbacks or obstacles — be ready to explain and have specific examples for each. This includes answers to behavioral questions, ones that begin with, “tell me about a time…”
Be prepared to address gaps in employment or education. In addition, be able to articulate why you are interested in making a move toward something (more positive) versus away from something (more negative).
Be able to address availability as well as any strings to your current employer — be clear on when you can start and be able to describe the terms of any non-solicit/non-compete agreements.
Below are sample interview questions from sales and management interviews:
Sales:
Walk me through your sales process for the most complex or challenging deal you ever won?
What do great salespeople do that makes them the best and produce the most?
How would you rank your sales ability?
What is your daily, weekly, monthly work routine?
What are your top three weaknesses/strengths?
What is the last book you read on selling and when?
Describe or rank your technology/computer skills.
Why should our company be compelled to bring you onto the team?
Management:
Tell me about your management style.
Tell me about your worst manager and what did you learn from that?
On a scale of one to five, how would you rank your management effectiveness?
Talk to me about your performance management skills.
Follow up to the above: What percentage of those achieved a satisfactory or better performance rating?
Follow up to the above: If some failed, why did they fail to achieve a satisfactory performance rating?
What is the most difficult situation you have had to face as a manager?
Why do you feel you are an effective leader?
What is the difference between management and leadership?
What was the last book you read on leadership?
Tell me about the business planning processes you have gone through.
5. Questions You Should Ask
Asking good questions shows that you have done your research and are interested in the role and the company. Search for press releases/announcements and develop a question or questions around these topics.
Ask what the first 90 days on the job might entail and what year one ramp up and steady-state annual performance goals might look like. Understand travel, hours, evening, and weekend commitments.
Leave questions about compensation, benefits, and career advancement until the end and/or until you meet with the HR contact, if applicable.
6. After the Interview
Trust your instincts about your true interest and fit in the company. This is an important decision and compensation will not make up for a misguided career move.
Send a thank-you note (or notes, if multiple people were involved). Doing so through email is fine, but a handwritten note may set you apart.
Follow up as soon as possible with any post-interview information or requirements. If there is any delay on your part, keep parties advised of the status.
Don’t neglect to follow up and check-in. People are busy. No news does not mean no interest. Show initiative and reach out for a status update.
If you do not get the position, ask to be kept in mind for other future opportunities that might be a better fit — think about how you want to be remembered.