How to “ACT” On Your Next Job Interview

By Lisa Holiday

Director of Career Development

Brooks College

 

The job interview for many can be a harrowing if not horrifying experience. The reason many find themselves overcome with out-of-control butterflies and sweaty palms is simply lack of preparation and practice. Consider the anxiety you would have if you were called to make a presentation to an audience of a couple of hundred people without having practiced or prepared. No doubt, you'd encounter those same butterflies and sweaty palms. The truth is, most everyone feels some degree of nervousness. This fact alone, for some, can be reassuring. Most of us simply do not interview on a regular basis, and may feel anywhere from somewhat nervous to panic stricken before an interview. Keep in mind another obvious truth some job seekers forget - employers want you to be the right person for the job. Having made their hiring decision, they can resume business as usual. Employers spend a significant amount of time and money in their recruiting efforts. From advertising for qualified candidates to the interviewing process, their goal is to find the right person for the job. Before the interview, a mental reminder that you could be just the person for the job may also be reassuring.

We all know that preparation is essential to the success of the interview, and practice is a must. You must also learn to “ACT” on the interview. Consider this reality -- interviewers generally make offers of employment to people they like. Usually, one's “gut” instinct will cast the final vote. An industry professional I know, a VP of Human Resources for a large apparel manufacturing company, who has been hiring entry level to executive level candidates for over 15 years, relies on her “gut” instinct rather than using the latest psychological or personality test. The ‘best” or most “qualified” person for the job may not always get the offer of employment. Brooks College recently invited HR professionals from a large department store to interview our students for employment opportunities. The critical success factors that they used as their criteria for hire were outgoing personalities, confidence, ability to take responsibility and learn from past mistakes.

In speaking with hundreds of employers continually looking for qualified candidates, I've come to the conclusion that the following attributes are not only necessary for success on the interview, but without them, you will not be considered for the job. Be prepared to “ACT” your way through the interview and to your next job:

· A - Appearance & Attitude . A polished and professional appearance is a must. A dark suit for both men and women is still the norm. Consider the following: “You can't make a second first impression.” People will size you up in seconds. You will be judged by your appearance - whoever said life was fair! Don't ignore the tried and true rules of dress for an interview. Err on the conservative side if you must. A positive attitude is usually #1 on the list of attributes employers seek in employees. They don't simply want to hear what you “can do” for the company, but what you “will do” for the company!

· C - Confidence & Communication . Confidence , coupled with enthusiasm are also key factors in the hiring decisions of employers today. Employers are interested to know how many “hats” you are prepared to wear, how much “multi-tasking” you are able to handle, and can you do it with a smile! Communication skills, verbal and written, likewise, are on the “Top Two” list of key skills desired by employers. Employers need employees who can interact with many levels of personnel both inside and outside of the company.

 

· T- Spirit of T (“ Teamwork ”) and communication skills and a are vital in the workplace today. Synergy - the sum is greater than its individual parts - or the “team” accomplishes more than individuals working solo -gets the job done (better). Employers need individuals who not only work “effectively” with others, but who can truly get along with their co-workers.

 

The above is an excerpt from The Last Job Search Guide You'll Ever Need: How to Find and Get the Job or Internship of Your Dreams, which is available for sale for $19.85 in our bookstore or $27.00 at Amazon.com but for free to those who subscriber to our free career newsletter. This hot new book contains job search secrets of the most experienced, most knowledgeable and most respected career experts. Learn career planning, job hunting tools and tactics, interviewing, cover letter and resume writing (lots of samples!), networking, and how to find an internship. Written by 149 career experts. To receive a free copy, subscribe to our free career newsletter.

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