Congratulations! You’ve been selected for a job interview. This is wonderful news, but what you do from this point forward is critical. Consider these speedy, yet effective, tips.
If you’re invited to do an interview, if possible, take the first time slot available. This demonstrates your interest and enthusiasm for the job and prevents you from becoming a casualty of “interviewer-fatigue.” This happens when the hiring manager becomes so tired of looking at candidates that everyone starts to look and sound alike. Or even worse – the hiring manager stops seeing candidates all together.
Be flexible! Job seeking is the priority, not going to the beach. I once cancelled a vacation when I found out the second interview that I'd been praying for would be scheduled during the middle of my planned trip dates. My decision to cancel was well worth it; not only did I got the job, but I was able to receive a travel voucher to reschedule my trip for a later time. Additionally, if the interviewer requests to change your interview time – even if you’ve already agreed on a set time and have plans to get ice cream with the kids – graciously accept the change. The interviewer will appreciate your flexibility, making you even more favorable as a candidate.
Continue being flexible on the day of the interview. If possible, keep your entire day open for the interview. Here's why - if the interview is going well, the hiring manager may want to spend more time with you or introduce you to other leaders. The last thing you want to say is, “Thanks, but no thanks because I have a nail appointment in 45 minutes." And even if you do have a legitimate appointment, politely cancel it (if you can) until further notice. It’s truly a matter of priorities here. I once went in for an interview at 8 a.m., not knowing that the hiring manager planned to do a full personality assessment, a one-on-one lunch in the company cafeteria, and another 4 hours of one-on-one discussion. At 5 p.m., I was literally exhausted, but I also walked out of the door with a job offer in hand. Praise God!
I hope these tips will help you as the job interviews start rolling in. I have faith that they will soon.
Always rooting for you,
Tamara
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