While it's easy to think you're the center of attention during a job search or interview, you're actually wrong.
Although 92% of job seekers fear something about the interview process, hiring managers have a lot of pressure, too. Hiring managers are expected to select candidates who possess strong skills and experience while also making a great cultural fit.
As you prepare for your upcoming job interview, here are five things to keep in mind that will help the hiring manager make a decision in your favor:
1. Think ahead and be prepared.
Landing a job interview is like striking gold. After weeks of searching for jobs, submitting applications, and networking with employers, securing a job interview is a rewarding feeling.
When the interview process begins, the hiring manager may follow up with you before the job interview itself. Whether it's via phone or email, be prepared for this communication. This initial contact is a chance for the hiring manager to screen you prior to the interview.
If the hiring manager schedules a phone call before your interview, have all of your bases covered. Thoroughly research the company, have your resume in front of you, and a list of references available. You should also have a few questions prepared just in case because this shows the hiring manager you are eager to land the job and will be prepared for the upcoming interview.
2. Relax and be yourself.
During every job interview, hiring managers want to learn about the real you. Sure, while they don't care about the fact you love watching Netflix on the weekends, they do care about what makes you unique.
When you enter the job interview, think of it as another networking opportunity. The only difference is you need to market your best qualities and skills to the interviewer. Tell the interviewer about your work-related interests, relevant experience, and things you enjoy most about your career.
3. Demonstrate why you love the company.
Hiring managers love talking to candidates who've invested their time in getting to know the company and develop a relationship with it. During the interview, explain to the interviewer how you genuinely care about the growth of the company and how you plan to contribute to its success.
Take a look at any unique challenges the organization faces and come up with some solutions to the problem. This shows hiring managers you've done your research and you're enthusiastic about working for their organization.
4. Prove your interpersonal communication skills.
Anyone can say they're a team player or they are good listeners. However, to help hiring managers make a good decision, you need to be able to prove these interpersonal communication skills.
To prove your interpersonal communication skills, be ready to answer any question regarding your experience working in a team or making decisions. Bring plenty of accomplishment stories relating to your communication skills that demonstrate your success working in a team, too. This will show the hiring manager what you can accomplish and the strength of your communication skills.
5. Follow up with what you learned from the interview.
Every job seeker knows you need to follow up with a thankyou letter after the interview. However, to make a sincere first impression, you should share what you learned from the interview in your thank you note. This shows the hiring manager you paid attention to details during the interview and were genuinely invested in the opportunity.
When job seekers understand what hiring managers expect out of a job interview, it can make the interview run more smoothly and work in your favor. Always remember to do your homework on the employer, prepare relevant accomplishment stories, and remember to ask thoughtful questions. This will give you the opportunity to help the hiring manager make a better decision and choose you for the position.