Are You Making These Common Interview Mistakes?

Face it, the most important skill set in job search is conducting successful interview that will lead to a job offer. You may have an awesome resume and LinkedIn profile, a truly remarkable brand, and numerous accomplishments throughout your career. But if you are unable to articulate your value to a prospective employer in a phone and in-person interview, you will likely be passed over for another equally qualified candidate who is more adept at interviewing.

I've spent most of my professional career as an Executive Recruiter and have interviewed thousands of candidates. These days I focus exclusively on Executive Career Transition Coaching where I coach candidates with all aspects of their job search. Interview coaching is the number ONE area where ALL of my clients needed improvement. No exceptions! Most clients overestimate their interview performance until they hear and see themselves being interviewed during my INTERVIEW BOOT CAMP mock interview sessions.?It's truly eye-opening!

Here are three common interview mistakes:

1.??Inability to answer the 'Tell me about yourself' question. This is a common ice breaker question that gives you the opportunity to engage the interviewer in your strengths and value. You will need to be able to articulate your personal brand, strengths relevant to the position you are interviewing for, the value that you'll bring to their company, one or two major career accomplishments and a brief career summary.?Your answer should be no longer than two minutes. Write down your answer and practice saying it aloud until it becomes second nature.

2. Talking too much. Have you ever timed yourself while answering an interview question? Most people underestimate the length of their answers and end up talking too much. They are trying to provide too much information hoping that the listener will grasp onto something that is relevant to the position, so they'll move forward in the interview process. When I coach my clients, we conduct a videotaped mock interview so they can make improvements. Most of them are surprised at the length of their answers. My advice is always to stop talking when you've said enough.

3. Not listening to the question. It has been my experience that interviewees are very focused on how they are going to answer a question rather than listening to understand the question itself. This often happens when interviewees are not thoroughly prepared in advance of the interview and 'wing it', hoping to ace the interview. HOPE IS NOT A STRATEGY! I can always tell when candidates have not been coached on how to conduct an effective interview. They fumble around and try to make up an answer that has no relevance to what I asked. Take time to carefully listen to what the interviewer is really asking you. If you aren't listening now, they will assume that you won't listen to them if they hire you.

In summary, an interview is an audition for a role. Actors and singers practice their craft so they will land work. They don't wing it. Candidates must be thoroughly prepared to ace an interview. If you are in a job transition or are currently employed and want to launch a confidential search, you MUST hone your interview skills. I can help with my effective and affordable INTERVIEW BOOT CAMP! Let’s work together so you'll come across as a strong and polished candidate and land the right job, faster. Text me at 612-720-7448 or email at [email protected] today! Visit www.hockenbergsearch.com for more job coaching services.