11 Simple Steps to Prepare for your Killer Interview
It’s a fact – a good interview wins you the job. Over 90% of hires are based solely upon the interview, according to a Harvard Business Review study. And if that didn’t convince you of the importance of impeccable interview preparedness, 63% of hiring decisions are made within the first 4.3 minutes of an interview (courtesy SHRM).
So lets dive into what it takes to prepare for that killer interview.
- Be on time.
In fact, be early. Give yourself enough time to go in relaxed and ready to project a confident demeanor. - Bring extra resumes with you.
Count on meeting more than one person. - Do your research.
Be prepared. Make it clear that you know the company’s history, solutions, verticals, main competitors, value proposition and their industry edge. - Know your audience.
Investigate their background, professional work history, common interests and their connections. - Listen!
Do not over speak. Give the interviewers every opportunity to describe the position, company history, culture, hiring profile and why they joined the company. - Stay on point with your responses.
Don’t find yourself straying off the topic or question. - Do not dwell on the negative.
If asked about recent quick job changes, give brief answers and a positive spin as to why. - Do not exaggerate!
A skilled interviewer will know when you do. They will know when a stated performance level on your resume does not tie in with your quota attainment and W-2 history. - Talk about the numbers.
Use your resume as a guide for talking points when presenting your performance history. Do not be shy. You earned those figures! Present your quotas and attainment, company ranking and achievements with pride. - Be clear about the value you bring to the organization and how strong of a fit you are for the position.
Mention your C-level connections within the industry, territory and major contract wins including contract value. Speak to how your contributions to the team will help the hiring manager achieve their goals.
- Close. Close. Close.
During an initial interview, close on proceeding to the next step in their process. If it is a final interview, close on an offer. Regardless of whatever stage you are in their hiring process, gain commitment from them to advance you to the next step in their process.