Written by: Gabriela Deno, Summer Intern ’19
Although you can build up your resume to be near perfect on paper, the real test comes down to the interview. This is your best chance to set yourself apart from other candidates.
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An article in Forbes suggests 4 key tips that will “land you your next job.” The tips include: pre-identify three things you want your interviewer to know about you, push back the salary conversation, don’t give too many details on why you are looking for your next career move and lastly, be yourself.
As communications experts, CommCore has suggestions to guide you to communicate most effectively during an interview. Our best selling book, Get To The Point: How To Say What You Mean and Get What You Want, written by CommCore CEO and President Andrew Gilman, is filled with effective communication techniques to prepare you for your next big interview:
- Be prepared. Research the organization and the position you are interested in beforehand. Recruiters and hiring managers tend to be impressed by applicants who have done their homework.
- Develop questions in advance. Have a list of points you want to discuss for easy reference and to make sure you do not forget them. The more the hiring manager talks in response to your questions, the more you learn about the job and can position yourself favorably.
- Review your resume. Adapt it to fit the job’s listing requirements. Have at least one strong anecdote or detail for each point listed on your resume.
- Make sure to communicate the organization’s WIIFM: What’s in it for us to hire you? What’s the significance of your accomplishments and experiences for this job?
- Respond to all questions asked (specifically those you would rather not answer) even if you have to bridge from a challenging question to a positive response.
- Be aware of your body language. First impressions are vital. Dress appropriately for the organization’s culture (you can call ahead and ask about the dress code). Note how you walk in and greet the interviewer, your eye contact, posture, vocal tone and gestures. Most hiring managers will form an initial judgment of your suitability within seconds of seeing you for the first time.