What do you picture in your mind when I say the word 'interview'? Formal, suits, a person or people asking you loads of questions that you're not sure you know the answer to and you trying to impress the person sitting right in front of you because you want that job. Well, when you shift your perspective and think of it as a chat with someone new, it can alleviate some pressure. This blog aims to help you navigate that initial conversation effectively, allowing you to present your true self while maintaining professionalism.
Approaching The Interview As A Conversation
Think of the interview as a conversation rather than a test. Both parties are there to learn more about one another. As much as the interviewers want to find a suitable candidate, you should also be assessing if the organisation aligns with your values and career goals. This mindset can transform your approach and reduce anxiety. Remember that interviews are not just about showcasing your qualifications and skills, this part was already on your CV. This is an opportunity for you to evaluate whether the organisation and its culture resonate with your values and long-term career aspirations.
By changing your mindset around how to do interviews or what people think interviews should be, you will be able to relax into the conversation. Find the time to ask questions you want to ask. Ask about the team size you'll be working with, and what you'll be doing on a normal day. Ask about the shift patterns and the progression of the job. An interview doesn't have to be them asking you the questions, you can ask the questions after you've answered the question, just like a conversation. Since an average adult spends 90,000 hours at work in their lifetime, ask for a tour of the building, just like if you're viewing a property, you want to know if you can work there every day during the week.
By considering the interview as a dialogue rather than an interrogation, while the company evaluates your qualifications, you should also assess whether the organisation offers the professional growth, work-life balance, and values alignment you seek in a workplace.
Communicating With Your Own Voice
While answering questions in a straightforward and honest manner is vital, remember to use your voice. Instead of rehearsing answers word for word, aim to convey your thoughts clearly and authentically. For example, when discussing why you’re interested in a position, articulate your motivations and values rather than regurgitating a polished pitch. They aren't looking for perfect, they are looking for potential.
If asked about your previous experiences, resist the temptation to frame your stories in an overly formal style that feels disconnected from your true self. Tell them a short story, what your experiences were before, and where you are now. Share your journey in a conversational tone. For instance, if you faced challenges in a previous role, discuss what you learned from those difficulties rather than just the outcome. This approach reveals your character, demonstrating resilience and a willingness to grow.
Answering Truthfully and Genuinely
During a job interview, every question is an opportunity for you to confidently showcase your true self to the potential employer. It is essential to express your enthusiasm for the industry and highlight your career path without hesitating. When discussing your accomplishments, it is important to strike a balance between being specific and being authentic. Providing concrete examples to support your work is beneficial, but it is equally important to ensure that they accurately reflect your actual impact in previous roles. Avoiding false statements or exaggerations. Remember, interviewers can easily distinguish authenticity from rehearsed responses, so honesty and sincerity are key which can distinguish you from other candidates.
Navigating Tough Questions
You might encounter challenging questions about weaknesses or past failures. This is where you can truly shine by being honest and reflective. Instead of avoiding your flaws, discuss them openly. Take time to breathe if you aren't sure how to answer the question, as it will give you a few moments to gather yourself together. You can ask the interviewer to repeat the question as well or ask them to rephrase the question so you can get a better understanding of what answer they are looking for. There's nothing worse than understanding half of the question and waffling on about something not relevant. This not only shows initiative but also emphasises your adaptability and showing your communication skills. Employers appreciate candidates who are self-aware and proactive in addressing what they didn't fully grasp at the beginning.
Approaching interviews as a conversation and presenting your genuine self helps build rapport with interviewers. It allows you to be yourself, it allows the interviews to see the real you and you can get a glimpse of the people you will be working with. Interviews work both ways and after the interview, you should receive all the indications, that gut feeling, you need to see if the job is the right one for you.
If you're interested in honing your interview skills and enhancing your communication skills, I have an interview skills programme which will help you excel when it comes to getting that dream job. Go to my website and check it out.
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