Maximise your Interview Potential with handy tips from Hudson Cooper Legal People!
How to sell yourself in an interview...
Why is it important?
Many of us shy away from self-promotion and stop at telling people what we do, rather than how well we do it. Overcoming this reticence will ensure that you always make a positive and powerful first impression.
Where do I start?
First, overcome any reluctance to talk about yourself. Learn how to grab their attention and build rapport quickly - use eye contact and body language (mirror their posture) to help you.
Be self-assured, but don't talk at your listener, and avoid rushing to get more words in - less is more in this case. Pause when you need to, use open questions and actively listen to their responses.
Think about what you want to accomplish and what you want them to think or do as a consequence. The interview should give a decision-maker a preview of your talents and abilities. Aim to be both impressive and distinctive so that you stand out from the crowd.
What makes you different? People remember different. Your ultimate goal is to spark a dialogue with this person. You need to convey that you are a highly capable individual and emphasise where you've added value to your organisation, how you've solved problems and helped others. The message should remain a constant, but always relevant to
the listener. When you talk about your skills, describe how you use them, rather than what they are.
QUESTIONS TO ANTICIPATE
Every interviewer will ask you about your duties or responsibilities in your current or previous position or about any relevant experience. A good interviewer will
find out about your motivations and your work style however an interview is also your opportunity to show them what you have learnt about their company.
- What are you short and long term career ambitions?
- Where will you be in five and ten year's time?
- What is your greatest weakness? In which areas do you need to improve?
- What is your strongest attribute? What are you most proud of?
- What is special about you, what makes you our ideal choice?
- What are you five greatest achievements so far?
- What would you like to accomplish over the next 1-2 years?
- Why did you only get a second-class degree?
- Has college been worthwhile or a waste of time?
- Describe yourself in three minutes.
- Are you creative? Are you analytical?
- Are you a good manager?
- Are you a good leader? Are you a good team player?
- How do you cope with pressure? Give examples.
- How have you changed the nature of your present position?
- What do you like most/least about you present position?
- What do you think of your boss? & What does your boss think of you?
- What interests you most/least about the vacancy?
- How much do you know about us?
- What other positions do you have pipeline?
- Why haven't you found a position so far?
- How long do you expect to stay with us?
- What salary are you expecting?
QUESTIONS TO ASK
Candidates are usually invited to ask questions near the end of the interview.
Always ask at least one question, as if you don't you might be seen to lack initiative. If the interviewer has answered all your prepared questions, mention what those were.
Write the questions down, if you won't be able to remember them - this shows you're organised and prepared. Questions will come easy if you have research the position and the company's principles and history.
- Why has the position become available?
- What objectives need to be met in this position?
- Who will review my performance?
- How often do official reviews take place?
- Could you explain the organisational structure of the company?
- What changes are foreseen for the company with regards to size, personnel,departments, internal systems etc?
- Is there any opportunity for career development?
- Is any training offered with the position?
- What benefits are offered in addition to the basic salary?
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