The 1 thing you MUST do in every job interview!

I recently interviewed an excellent candidate. The woman had an incredible resume, an infectious personality, and, seemingly, a great work ethic. She was dressed for success, with a style fitting our culture. She answered all of my questions well, and seemed like a potential excellent fit for our company. Yet, despite all of this, she didn’t receive another interview, and I absolutely couldn’t seriously consider hiring her. What went wrong?

When I asked her what questions she had for me, the job candidate replied, “None, really. I’ve been following you guys online for awhile and feel like I know everything already.”

That was a fatal error, of course. By not asking questions, she told me she wasn’t truly interested in learning more, in creating value, and in our company. I couldn’t hire an otherwise very-well-qualified candidate because, in her lack of questions, she displayed a lack of passion for, interest in, and curiosity about our company and the position.

The most important thing you must do in every interview is to ask great questions.

The key is to ask great questions- not to ask questions that you should know the answers to already (“What does the position entail?) or questions that make it all about you (“What is your vacation policy?”)

Here are 9 great questions you can use or make your own on your next job interview. Obviously they’re generic and should be tailored based on circumstances:

1) Who would make the ideal candidate for this position?

2) How will the work I’ll be doing contribute to the organization’s mission?

3) What were the best things about the last person who held this position?

4) What are three ways I can contribute to the company beyond the job description?

5) How can I best contribute to the department’s goals?

6) How do you see me best contributing to the corporate culture and morale?

7) What do you see as the biggest challenges of working here and how can I overcome those challenges?

8) What is your vision for where the company or department will be in one year? In 3-5 years?

9) How can I best help you and the team succeed?

 

Of course, the more research you do in advance, the more you can ask specific questions about the company’s recent news, blog posts, product launches, plans, etc. But here’s the bottom line:

Ask questions that demonstrate genuine interest in the organization and how you can fit in to their success.

Remember, also, job interviewing is a two-way-street! By asking questions, you can get a much better sense of the organization you’re interviewing at, and the extent to which you’d even want to work there.

An interview is just like a date. A date is a two way street– where both parties are seeing if tis a right fit. The dater who talks and talks, even if they’re a good match, seems disinterested in the other person. It’s the same with interviewing. Show that you are invested and interested in the person, by asking questions.

When job seekers come in to Likeable not only with great answers, but with great questions, I get excited about the prospects of hiring them. And hopefully, they can get some great answers from us, and get excited about the prospects of working there as well.

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Chris Bousquet helped me every step of the way! 

He’s been very supportive and understanding.
I was contacted via LinkedIn by Chris, He took the time to understand my skills and experience. He was also very honest about the job. He is a true professional, and is dedicated to helping his clients find the perfect job!

Now I’m about to start a new journey and thanks to Chris for all his hard work.

Many Thanks,

Christine

It was a delight to work with Corina!

From the first phone call through the final acceptance offer Corina was a delight to work with.
She offered helpful tips along the way and made the process professional and very easy.
It was a delight to work with Corina!
Thank you!
Mary

Helen Nourai's expertise and professionalism was impeccable!

I would love to share my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to work with, the one and only, Ms. Helen Nourai. During our discussion, I found our conversation to be insightful and impactful. I literally was taking notes as she and I were talking. She was thorough in her assessment of me and my endeavors, Helen Nourai's expertise and professionalism was impeccable; it was clear to me that she was a veteran at the services she provided.
Although Helen was a recruiter; I felt that she ALSO was an advocate for me, as well. It was truly a pleasure and a vibe to have an encounter with her. Words cannot express my gratitude for meeting her. I truly believe that she was God sent to me. Everything I expressed to her that I was looking for, she delivered, and more. I firmly believe that I have this opportunity because of her diligence.
Thank You,
Destiny W.

I am really happy with all of Alex Pomponio's assistance during my process

I admire her hard work on every step and each detail. She is an incredible recruiter and with her guidance and follow up after the interview, it made me feel so secure! Working with Alex has been an awesome opportunity!!!

I am really happy with the end results, getting hired!

Andrés M.

Hez Butler was truly amazing and wonderful in assisting me with my job search

I cannot speak highly enough about the outstanding service provided by Hez Butler and the team at Patrice & Associates. His dedication, professionalism, and genuine care made all the difference in finding a career that will help me provide a better life for my son and me.

Hez's ability to understand my needs and match me with the right opportunity was remarkable. His guidance and support throughout the process were invaluable, and his commitment to excellence is evident in every interaction. There isn't a better person for the role he plays in helping change people's lives. I wholeheartedly recommend Hez Butler and Patrice & Associates to anyone seeking a career change.    

Thank you once again for your incredible support.

 

Best regards,

John

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