How to get ANY job you want: Expert reveals 10 ways to give a memorable interview (including a very powerful closing statement)
- Interviews are a good opportunity to set yourself apart from other candidates
- Career expert has revealed 10 tips on how to make sure you are remembered
- Engaging small talk and a powerful closing statement are both very important
Businesses want to hire employees who stand out from the crowd so it is important that your interview is memorable for all the right reasons.
Career expert John Lees, author of Knockout Interview, has revealed 10 tips on how to set yourself apart, from engaging small talk to a powerful closing statement.
While some might seem obvious, others will give even the most experienced professionals pause for thought.
'At the end of a full day interviewing candidates, most recruiters admit that they have forgotten most interview performances,' Mr Lees said.
'People who receive job offers give something beyond clichéd answers and "vanilla" evidence. Employers can find average candidates without breaking into a sweat, but they’re looking for something extra.'
Lost in the crowd: Interviewers want to hire dynamic candidates who set themselves apart
INITIAL IMPACT
First impressions count. And it is never more true than in an interview. In the opening 20 seconds the interviewer will make judgments based on a range of signals, including how easily you make conversation.
Mr Lees said: 'So start off clearly, confidently and positively - even if the first question is about the weather, or your journey.'
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LISTEN HARD
It might seem straightforward, but the wording of the question being asked might be slightly different to the one you are expecting.
'It's easy under stress to listen ineffectively, so keep your "radar" switched on throughout,' said Mr Lees.
Enthusiastic: Employers are looking to offer jobs to candidates who have plenty of energy
BE CONCISE
Interviewers are busy so don't waste their time by waffling.
Mr Lees said: 'Short answers, focused on the needs of the job, help interviewers to get through their checklist, and allow time for probing of facts.'
COMMUNICATE ENERGY
There are no points for appearing underwhelmed or disengaged. Explain with enthusiasm what attracted you to the role and how it fits your career goals.
MAKE SENSE OF YOUR SKILLS
You will understand all the ins-and-outs of your current role, but your potential employer might not. Show how your skills transfer by explaining them in language which is both relevant and exciting to an employer.
AVOID BEING PREDICTABLE
While interview questions might sometimes be predictable, that does not mean your answers need to be.
'Interviewers have heard all the clichés from candidates claiming to be team players and winners,' Mr Lees said. Try to think of original ways to phrase your responses.
Lasting impression: Most interviewers focus on your opening and closing statements
TELL STORIES
Make yourself stand out by turning dull facts into interesting stories that interviewers will remember long after you left the room. To ensure you don't waffle, rehearse three-minute stories which reveal your experience and motivation.
SHARE KEY MESSAGES
Decide on three-four key points you are going to get across during the interview, even if the relevant questions aren’t asked.
CLOSE ON A HIGH
Mr Lees said: 'Interviewers are more likely to remember the first and last thing you said more than anything else, so make your final point a clear statement about how you match the role.'
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