The Seven Steps for Interview Success Page 3

2. Communicate Your Skills

Once you have made a positive impression, you are ready to tell the interviewer why she should hire you. This back-and-forth conversation usually lasts from 15 to 45 minutes and many consider it to be the most important and most difficult task in the entire job search. Your goal is to know what skills are required to do well in the job and to convince the employer that you have them. Step 2 will help you recognize and communicate your skills.

3. Use Control Statements to Your Advantage

A control statement is a statement that steers the conversation. Although you might think you are at the mercy of the interviewer, you do have some ability to set the direction of the interview.

For example, you might say something direct, such as "I'd like to tell you how I can help your organization." Your control statement can come at the beginning of the interview or any time in the interview when you feel the focus is shifting away from the points you want to make.

4. Answer Problem Questions Well

According to employers polled in Northwestern University's Endicott Report, about 80 percent of all job seekers cannot provide a good answer to one or more problem interview questions. Almost everyone has a problem of some sort, and the employer will try to find yours. Expect this and be prepared to provide answers that will put him at ease. Step 5 gives more guidance on answering such questions. 

5. Ask the Interviewer Appropriate Questions

Many interviewers will give you the chance to ask questions. How you respond affects their evaluation of you. Having nothing to ask makes you appear passive or disinterested, so be prepared to ask insightful questions about the organization. Good topics to touch on include questions about the style of management, the organization's competition and future obstacles, and how the organization's goals have changed over time.

6. Tell Employers Why They Should Hire You

Even if the interviewer never directly asks it, she ultimately wants to know one thing: "Why should I hire you over someone else?" A good response to this question usually provides proof that you can help an employer make more money by reducing costs, increasing sales, or solving problems. Step 4 will help you answer this all-important question.

7. Close the Interview Properly

As the interview comes to an end, remember these few things:

Don't let the interview last too long. Most interviews last 30 to 60 minutes. Unless the interviewer asks otherwise, plan on staying no longer than an hour.

If a problem came up, repeat your resolution of it. Whatever you think that particular interviewer may see as a reason not to hire you, bring it up again and present your reasons why you don't see it as a problem.

Review your strengths for this job. Take this opportunity to briefly restate the key skills you possess that relate to this particular job.

If you want the job, as for it. Employers are more willing to hire someone who is excited about the job.

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