So, you’ve got an interview, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. You’ve probably heard that having the right skills and qualifications is crucial; You know by now that your focus, structured replies, and the need for exemplary facts are part of the conversation to come. But something else can make or break your chances: connecting with the interviewer.
In this blog post, I’ll dive into why a connection is a game-changer in interviews and give you some terrific tips to nail it!
Why Connection and Chemistry Matter:
Imagine entering an interview with all the correct answers and an impressive resume. You’re ready to show them what you’ve got, but somehow, you can’t shake the feeling that something’s off. Days later, you receive the dreaded rejection email, and you’re left wondering why.
Here’s the deal: it’s about more than just what’s on paper. Employers want to see if you’re a good fit for their team and if they can see themselves working with you. That’s where the connection comes in. When you can relate to the interviewer personally, they see you as more than just another candidate. They see you as a potential teammate they can trust and enjoy working with.
Your Interviewer: Not an Adversary, But a Teammate:
Here’s a little secret: the interviewer is not your adversary; they’re your teammate, hoping that you qualify and their job is done – they can give you the offer! They want to find the right person for the job who will contribute to the team’s success. So, rather than viewing the interviewer as someone trying to trip you up, consider them your ally in the selection process.
Tips for Epic Connections:
Get Your Research Game On: Before the interview, stalk your interviewer a bit (in a non-creepy way, of course!). Check out their LinkedIn profile and see what they’re into. Do they have any remarkable achievements or hobbies? Knowing this gives you an edge and helps you find common ground to chat about.
Find the Hook: Watch for things in the room that catch your attention during the interview. They may have a poster of your favorite band or a sports trophy. Bring it up casually and let the conversation flow. It shows you’re paying attention and interested in them as a person, not just as an interviewer.
Show That You’re All Ears: Be present and engaged when the interviewer asks questions or shares something. Maintain eye contact, nod, and listen to what they say. Show them that you care and are genuinely interested in the conversation.
Make It Personal: When you answer questions, connect your experiences to the company’s needs. Tell stories demonstrating how you can solve their problems or contribute to their goals. This personal touch makes you more relatable and memorable.
Stay Cool, But Professional: While you want to make a connection, it’s essential to strike the right balance. Be yourself, but remember to stay professional. Avoid oversharing or getting too casual. Keep it friendly, but keep it professional too.
Why Connecting is Your Superpower:
Building a genuine connection with the interviewer gives you a significant advantage. It sets a positive tone for the interview and makes it more enjoyable for both of you. Plus, it helps the interviewer see you as a natural person, not just a bunch of qualifications on paper.
Connecting also shows off your tremendous interpersonal skills. Employers love candidates who can work well with others and build relationships. By showcasing your ability to connect, you stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of landing the job.
Conclusion:
In the wild world of job interviews, standing out is everything. It’s not just about being the most qualified candidate; it’s about making that special connection. By realizing that the interviewer is not your adversary, but your potential teammate, you can approach the interview with a collaborative mindset.
So, go out there and crush those interviews! Please show them your skills, but also show them the real you. When you make that special connection, you’ll be one step closer to landing your dream job. You’ve got this!
In my next post, I shall share an experience of a most interesting interview, which I had the privilege to witness to some extent. Barron HIlton and Steven Bollenbach are the participants in this conversation. For those, who do not know Steven Bollenbach, he was the mastermind behind the restructuring of Marriott Host Corporation, CFO of the Disney Corporation and is credited with saving Donald J. Trump from personal bankruptcy years ago.
Make the best out of today and please let me know what You think.
Helmut
