How to win an interview.
A little while back, I helped a candidate prep for her interview.
She asked me, "What can you tell me about their interview style?"
I said, sure I can tell you what you need to know, but do you mind my asking, why is that important to you?
She'd been looking for a new role for a while and had been pipped to the post for a number of roles. Very frustrating and confidence-sapping.
She wanted to give her best and align her approach with that of the interviewers.
In principle a fine idea; however not one I agree with.
I advised her to not worry about their style and instead focus on two things:
- be your best professional self
- give them the answers they need to understand how you can help
Both elements are in her control, rather than trying to influence their perception, which is not.
Besides, I said, what happens if you do align yourself to their style, get the job, and then the culture isn't right for you?
Just be your best professional self, and what will be will be. And if you do get the job, it will be for the right reasons and you're much more likely to be in an environment you'll enjoy.
It proved something that helped her, and as a consequence, I believe, it took some pressure off her shoulders to sell herself.
It was a really strong shortlist, surprisingly so, given many of my roles have few suitable candidates available.
She got the job, on her own merits.
