Secrets To a Successful Job and Sales Interview

I have interviewed a couple hundred people over the last year and here are some of the secrets to a successful job and sales interview.

We have compiled this information because many candidates did not receive an offer, or received a reduced offer, due to a few key elements overlooked during the interview process.

Some points seem obvious but individually, or collectively, they cost the candidate money or the job offer. Lets take a look at them so you are better prepared the next time you go on an interview.

Be on time. Chances are very good that we have a full day scheduled so please be on time. It doesn’t hurt to be early to complete any necessary paperwork and be prepared when we are ready for you.

Please show up with a resume’. Don’t assume that just because you applied for the job on line and attached your resume that “the panel” will all have a copy. Bring at least three or four copies to be safe.

Be positive during the greeting. The interview should be you at your best. Do not discuss anything negative or personal, keep it business. If you do not have a positive attitude at the beginning of the interview we doubt you’ll develop one if we hire you.

Look us in the eye and greet us with a firm hand shake. That will show us you mean business. Right or wrong, our first impression of you will usually dictate the tone of the interview. If we are not impressed with your greeting it will be very difficult to change that perception during the remainder of the interview.

Know something about our company and business. We know you won’t know everything, but look up a couple key facts to show us you want to work here and are a quick study.

Take notes. If we ask a two part question, please remember the second part or write it down so you don’t have to ask us to repeat it. The best way to respond is to write down the first part and answer the second part first, if applicable. This way you will only have to write down one part of the question because the second part should be fresh in your mind.

Write down everyone’s name and position, particularly if it a panel interview. This way you can address answers to different function leads. Use the persons name in your response. This will make us more receptive to your answers.

A General Manager is typically looking for different qualities in a candidate than a person from Human Resources. The most successful candidates address responses to both groups. If you do this you will separate yourself from other candidates.

Be prepared to ask us one or two questions at the end of the interview. It shows that you are interested in advancing your career and care about where you work. This also shows that you have a standard that we need to live up to. You might also be able to gauge our interest level by our response.

Tell yourself that you are the best at what you do prior to entering the interview. It will build confidence and put you at ease.

Smile and be yourself. It shows confidence!

And most important……..have fun!

Incorporate these tips and you have a very good chance at getting the job and maximizing your offer!

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