INTERVIEW TECHNIQUES TO SHORTEN THE JOB SEARCH
When you’re interviewing for a new job, timing can be stressful. Even if you have plenty of time, a prolonged hiring process can keep you from jumpstarting your career. To streamline your job search, follow these 7 easy interview tips!
1. KEEP YOUR RESUME UP-TO-DATE
If you are looking to make a quick career move, keep your resume as current as possible. Staying on top of your metrics, your quota attainment, and your different projects will ensure that you can send your resume over as quickly as possible. Especially when networking, being able to email a resume on the spot can make a difference in utilizing a connection’s network.
2. COME PREPARED WITH QUESTIONS
Do your research on the company, the industry, and the role you’re interviewing for. Don’t waste your first interview round just going over your own resume and the hiring manager’s background. Diving into job specifics on the first round can demonstrate your eagerness for the position and your readiness to start working at the company immediately.
3. ASK FOR HESITATIONS
Addressing a hiring manager’s hesitations in the interview can boost you through the hiring process quicker. Be direct and ask them “ Do you have any hesitations about my background for the role” or “Do you have any concerns about moving me forward in the process?” This gives you the opportunity to address their concerns head-on and have a discussion around your skill set that they may have overlooked on your resume. Also, beyond just knowing your strengths, it is important to understand what areas you need to grow in, and how you are actively doing so.
4. SET NEXT STEPS
Additionally, set concrete next steps at the end of your interview. Identify when you’ll hear from the hiring manager and what the next step in the hiring process entails. This way, you’ll be able to begin prepping immediately. Don’t wait for the hiring manager to reach out to you if you truly are excited about an opportunity. Setting expectations early will hold both you and the hiring manager accountable for making decisions quickly.
5. BE AVAILABLE
If you are looking for a new job, keep a flexible schedule. Being available as soon as possible is key when trying to shorten the job search. Always try to set the next interview step as soon as possible. This way you can stay fresh in the hiring manager’s mind and can reach an offer sooner than later. Don’t start looking for a job if you know you’re completely busy the following week or are planning a long vacation. Keep up your interview momentum!
6. WRITE QUICK FOLLOW-UPS
After an interview, be sure to immediately write a follow-up thank you note. Having the conversation fresh in your mind is important so you can craft a personal email that touches on the major points you covered. If you’ve already established next steps and have overcome hesitations, the follow-up can be a great place to re-demonstrate your professionalism and eagerness for the position.
7. USE A RECRUITER
Of course, the fastest way to get hired at your dream job is to use a recruiter. Tapping into a recruitment company’s extensive network can shorten the job search to a matter of weeks. If you’re interested in a new role and want to start looking immediately, connect with a recruiter today!