What are interview skills and why are they important to have?

Interview skills refer to the set of abilities and techniques individuals use to effectively present themselves during job interviews. These skills encompass verbal communication, body language, active listening, and the ability to articulate one's qualifications and experiences clearly.

Interview skills are crucial for several reasons:

• First Impressions: They contribute to forming a positive first impression, influencing how interviewers perceive the candidate.

• Communication: Effective interview skills ensure that candidates can express their thoughts, experiences, and skills clearly and persuasively.

• Confidence: The ability to convey confidence and professionalism is key to convincing employers of one's suitability for a position.

• Understanding Requirements: Strong interview skills enable candidates to understand the employer's needs and tailor their responses to demonstrate how they meet those requirements.

• Competitive Edge: In a competitive job market, individuals with excellent interview skills are more likely to stand out and secure job offers.

• Building Rapport: Good interview skills help in establishing rapport with the interviewer, fostering a positive and memorable interaction.

• Handling Challenges: Effective interview skills enable candidates to navigate challenging questions or situations with grace and poise.

Overall, possessing strong interview skills is an integral part of the job-seeking process, significantly impacting an individual's chances of securing employment and advancing in their career.

Tips to become a better interviewee

• Research the Company:

  • Learn about the company's values, culture, and mission.

  • Understand the job role and its requirements.

  • Tailor your responses to align with the company's goals.

• Understand Common Interview Questions:

  • Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses.

  • Practice answering questions about your experiences and achievements.

  • Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

• Showcase Your Skills and Achievements:

  • Clearly articulate your skills, experiences, and achievements.

  • Use specific examples to demonstrate how your past experiences make you a strong fit for the position.

  • Quantify your accomplishments when possible.

• Practice Good Body Language:

  • Maintain eye contact to convey confidence and engagement.

  • Practice a firm handshake and good posture.

  • Listen actively, nod, and respond appropriately to show you are engaged in the conversation.

• Ask Thoughtful Questions:

  • Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the company, team, or role.

  • This demonstrates your interest in the position and company.

  • Avoid asking questions that can be easily answered through basic research.

Remember, preparation is key to a successful interview. By researching, practicing, and showcasing your skills effectively, you can significantly improve your performance as an interviewee.

Elevator Pitch

Crafting a compelling elevator pitch for an interview is crucial for making a strong first impression. Here are some tips:

• Be Concise:

  • Keep it brief, aiming for 60-90 seconds. Focus on key points to maintain the interviewer's interest.

• Tailor to the Role:

  • Customize your pitch to highlight skills and experiences most relevant to the specific job you're interviewing for.

• Start with a Hook:

  • Begin with a sentence that grabs attention, such as a notable accomplishment or unique aspect of your background.

• Highlight Strengths and Achievements:

  • Showcase your key strengths and significant achievements. Use quantifiable results to demonstrate your impact.

• Emphasize Relevant Experience:

  • Focus on experiences directly related to the position. Discuss projects or responsibilities that align with the job requirements.

• Express Passion and Enthusiasm:

  • Convey genuine enthusiasm for the role and company. Let your passion for your work shine through in your pitch.

• Practice Delivery:

  • Rehearse your pitch until you can deliver it confidently and naturally. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend to receive feedback.

• Show Adaptability:

  • Mention your ability to adapt and learn quickly. This demonstrates flexibility, a valuable quality in many work environments.

• End with a Call to Action:

  • Finish your pitch with a statement expressing your interest in the position and a desire to further discuss how your skills align with the company's needs.

• Be Authentic:

  • Be yourself and let your personality come through. Authenticity can create a genuine connection with the interviewer.

Remember, the goal of your interview elevator pitch is to set a positive tone for the conversation, showcase your qualifications, and leave the interviewer wanting to learn more about you. Adjust your pitch based on the specific context and the company's values and needs.

Thoughtful questions to ask at the end of the interview to make you stand out

Asking thoughtful questions at the end of an interview not only demonstrates your interest in the position but also helps you stand out as a candidate. Here are some questions you can ask:

• "Can you describe the team dynamics and the company culture?"

  • This shows your interest in fitting well within the team and aligning with the company's values.

• "What does success look like in this role, and how is it measured?"

  • Demonstrates your focus on understanding expectations and your commitment to delivering results.

• "How has this position evolved over time, and are there opportunities for professional development?"

  • Signals your interest in long-term growth within the company.

• "What projects or initiatives are currently a priority for the team or department?"

  • Indicates your eagerness to contribute meaningfully and stay informed about the company's objectives.

• "How does the company support work-life balance and employee well-being?"

  • Shows your concern for a healthy work environment and a balanced lifestyle.

• "What is the next step in the interview process, and when can I expect to hear back?"

  • Displays your eagerness and proactive approach to the hiring process.

Remember to tailor these questions to the specific context of the interview and the information you've already received during the conversation. Asking thoughtful and relevant questions will leave a positive impression on the interviewer.

"Opportunities don't happen, you create them." — Chris Grosser

Resources for more information and education:

Books:

60 Seconds and You're Hired!: Revised Edition by Robin Ryan

Get That Job!: The Quick and Complete Guide to a Winning Interview by Thea Kelley 

101 Job Interview Questions You'll Never Fear Again by James Reed 

Knock 'em Dead Job Interview: How to Turn Job Interviews Into Job Offers (Knock 'em Dead Career Book Series) by Martin Yate