Three Interviewing Secrets How to have a great interview even when the situation feels anxious, awkward and artificial From: TheLadders.com February 2010

Three Main Points to Remember 1.Pick 3 points and stick to them 2.It’s not about you 3.Have good questions

Pick 3 Points & Stick to Them  You MUST “stay on message”  E.G. Politicians’ Interviews  What are the 3 key things you are looking for in this position?  Ask recruiter, read ad, see web site  KNOW these by heart  Stay focused on them

The 3 Points  Write the 3 points down beforehand  Describe how YOU can meet these needs  If get off topic, steer it back to these needs  When you walk out, your message will stay behind with your future boss!

It’s NOT about you!!  Consider interviewer’s point of view  How you can meet the needs of Co.  Interview = Sales Call  Selling You!!  Your education, experience, skills, talent  He who talks least, wins!!

The BIG Mistakes to Avoid  Talking about yourself without a purpose  EVERYTHING must connect to the job at hand  Never Mention  How difficult the job search is  What your perfect career would be  Any criticism of former boss/job/client…

Have Good Questions!  Always have questions to ask!!  This is NOT optional  50% of questions – address your needs  50% demonstrate your capability to think critically about company & your role in it

10 Sample Questions 1.Biggest change of past year? 2.One year from now, what key accomplishments would you want to see from me? 3.What is your leadership style? 4.About which competitor are you most concerned? 5.How do your sales/marketing/technology operations function?

10 Questions - continued 6.What types of people are successful here? What types are not? 7.What has been key to your success? 8.How did you get your start in this industry? Why do you stay? 9.What are your best/worst working relationships with other groups in Co.? 10.What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest worry? **But do not ask ALL 10!!

Bonus Question!  How do you get annual bonus or recognition & thanks at end of year? How can I best help you do that!  You are thinking about others, not self  Team player  Good Luck!!