Are you going to job interviews but not hearing back after the meeting or not getting the job interview success you expected? You are probably wondering what you could have done differently. Sometimes, behaviors may be impacting your results. In this article, we discuss what you can do to get more responses from potential employers who are excited to start working with you, and we will cover 5 factors that effect your job interview success.
Manners and Professionalism
Besides being qualified for a job, your manners and professionalism before, during, and after an interview can be a significant factor in whether or not you land a job. Every nuance is taken into account so “showing up” and being conscientious both online and in person will set you apart from your competition.
● Show up about 10-15 minutes before the appointment time and make observations as you wait.
● While waiting in the lobby, be ready for the interviewer to show up at any moment.
● Make sure that your phone is off during the interview and focus on listening, having thoughtful answers and questions, and an overall confident presentation of the value you’ll offer to the position.
Appearance and Body Language
This is the time to look your best and demonstrate the body language that shows interest such as maintaining a good posture and a positive attitude. For group interviews, you may have had the opportunity to learn about each person before the meeting, so don’t be afraid to mention something that you noticed from their profile.
Saying Thank-You for the Interview
In an article about job search mistakes you may be making, Careerbuilder notes that “Sending a thank-you note after an interview seems like an obvious step, yet 57 percent of job seekers don’t do it.” So sending a thank-you note can help you to stand out from most of the job candidates who are interviewed. It also affirms your continual interest in the job.
Sometimes, you may not be given the contact information of the person who interviewed you. Make sure to always get this information before the interview ends. Some offices also have business cards of all the staff members in the front lobby.
Send the thank you note as soon as possible, within 24 hours of the interview. In the note, you can attach samples of your work or share information about how you can contribute to their business.
Competence and Interest
Here are some ways to show your competence and interest to your interviewer and stand out from the competition:
● Be prepared to thoughtfully ask and answer questions based on the job description that helps you determine whether the position is the right fit for you.
● Thoroughly research the company, including their website and social media pages.
● Show samples of your work. You can provide a link to a portfolio or present samples during the interview.
● Know the job description requirements and responsibilities and specifically how your skills and accomplishments have added value to prior companies and what you’ll contribute to this new role.
Your Online Presence
To boost your job interview success, make sure that your online profiles, posts, and conversations are up to par and represent you as the professional you are. Potential employers can see all of this information.
Having conversations with connections in your field can provide you with referrals as well as give you practice for how to build relationships and present yourself in interviews.
At 2Actify.com, we offer individual and mastermind group programs for career seekers that teach strategic online networking skills.
Success Story…
A client that recently landed her job was excited about the 2Actify program. After being referred to a company that saw her profile and resume, they wanted her “in the company”, so they CREATED a position for her!
Our client, T.Y. said …“I have to thank you specifically for your help on my resume. Comments on my prior resume were that it showed I bounced around and did not accomplish anything specific. Now, I’m hearing that I’m very focused and have a wealth of knowledge. I also did a lot better in my interviews!”
