7 mistakes to avoid in job interviews
(MoneyWatch) I wonder how many people practice their job interviews before going to them? If you have someone you trust, beg them to walk you through some of the typical questions you can anticipate. And then give them this list and make them stop you if you fall into any of these traps:
1. Don't oversell. Claiming you've done everything, seen everything and invented everything doesn't convince anyone. Be straight, honest and clear about how you've contributed to the organizations you have worked for.
2. Don't undersell. One reference to your great team is enough. Everyone appreciates that nobody achieves alone.
3. Don't assume everyone understands your past job titles. Explain nuts and bolts quickly and clearly.
4. Don't lie. This should go without saying but it's important. Many people lie in interviews unintentionally, because they get carried away. Even if you get the job, you'll be scared the whole time you do it. So don't lie. Ever.
5. Don't talk too much. Listen very carefully and, where relevant, ask questions that stem from what you've heard. Show interest but not desperation.
6. If you're working through a headhunter, remember they have a job to do too. Help them if you want them to help you. Recommend candidates if you can; generosity always makes you look good. Treat headhunters as partners even if (in truth) they aren't
7. Always rehearse. Sure you can walk through the interview in your head, but hearing how you sound out loud gives you a whole new perspective.
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As a former Fortune 500 executive I've hired hundreds of employees.
The key to getting hired, whether there's an opening or not, is to customize your approach. If not, you won't stand out or even get an interview. So stop blasting out countless resumes. Most never make it through the automated screening process and even less make it into the hands of a real person in HR.
Your target is not HR! It's the hiring manager that matters most.
Companies hire people to solve problems (both positive and negative). Your ability to uncover your target employers problems and position yourself as the solution is what will get you hired even when there are no open postings.
Bob Prosen
CEO
The Prosen Center.
for Business Advancement.
http://www.mycareeraccelerator.com