As an experienced recruiter, I can tell you that many candidates believe that they are showing that they want a job simply by turning up to the interview. My clients often offer the candidate who demonstrates they really wanted the job. This article will show you how to let them know you really want it!
So how can a candidate make it clear to an interviewer that they want the role more than the next person? As a Rec2Rec consultant working with leading recruitment agencies and executive search firms, this post will focus on the lessons within the industry, but they are applicable outside recruitment too.
1) Research
Recruitment businesses are doing more and more to highlight their sector and functional specialisms, their working culture, their benefits and commission structures in order to attract employees.
Whether this be on company website, their social media pages/feeds/blog posts – there is a wealth of information accessible within seconds to a half committed interviewee. They key is to ensure you are able to digest this information and reflect what you have read in the content of your answers during the interview or in the questions you ask at the end.
2) The 5 Ps – Perfect Preparation Prevents Poor Performance
If there is one thing your interviewer expects you to know – it is yourself and your current job. If you don’t know your current duties, KPIs, pay or commission structure, candidate pool, billings, average fee, clients and their competitors then you are not going to be able to show an interviewer why you will be a good fit for their business.
More importantly, if you do not have (or can’t show) commercial acumen in your current role – why should a prospective employer think you will bring that to their job?
Don’t let the hard work you have done researching the company go to waste by thinking just turning up and talking about yourself will be enough – it won’t.
3) Two-way street
Whilst some would argue that the sole purpose of an interview is for an interviewer to assess the suitability of a candidate – it is essential that the candidate also uses the opportunity to leave the meeting having gathered enough information to believe that the job is suitable for them.
Asking relevant questions about the job, future career progression, training and development as well understanding the direction of the business, the wider culture and the challenges facing business demonstrate that not only are you keen to ensure you’re joining a business that is right for you but also that you’re not just moving to somewhere that is like your current firm.
Ask the right questions and your interviewer will be impressed that you are genuinely interested in their firm and how you could develop there.
4) A picture paints a thousand words
Often, it doesn’t matter what you say but how you say it and present yourself when doing so. Opening the interview with a broad smile, a firm handshake and good eye contact is essential – it shows you want to be there. Speak clearly and ensure your responses answer the question asked – this shows you are honestly trying to get the job and respect the interviewer by telling them what they need to know. Listen attentively by maintaining eye contact and giving visual reassurances that you are interested in what your interviewer has to say. Ensure your body language is positive and open – do not slouch, yawn, look away whilst talking, fidget with things in your pocket or constantly look at your watch as this shows disinterest.
Any individual wants to feel that their time is valued and good body language has a significant positive impact on your verbal communication and therefore how your interviewer feels about you and your commitment.
5) A brave question
Towards the end of the interview, you’re going to get the chance to ask any further questions. This is a great time to ask a brave question: ask whether the interviewer thinks you are capable of succeeding in the role and if you’re a good fit for the company.
This gives you a good opportunity to sell yourself and overcome any concerns the interviewer may have.
Should you feel comfortable or should they not have any concerns, this is a great chance for you to confirm your interest in the role.
Your interviewer will leave the meeting knowing you are keen on the position.
If you utilise the above advice during an interview – you will be more successful than if you do not. All of these points will take up time before the interview whether doing your research, preparing your answers or practising some of the skills involved but that time is well spent – just like the extra pay you’ll get in your new job.
