Lesson 5: Job (shudder) Interviews
You feel like you are in the inquisition, and in a way, you are! Most of us at some time or other (me-all the time)tend to dread the Interview - that last part that separates us from our dream job. Your heart flutters, pounds and races, your palms sweat, your mind goes in circles. You're too good for this job; you're not good enough for this job; what made you think you could do this job; will they realize that lack of employment you tried to cover up in your resume; will they like you; what kind of psycho mumble jumble will they use today? If it helps, you are not alone in your feelings. Even the highest up has heart palpitations at having to proof himself/herself once again. The secret is not to let the heart beat and shakes show - not eliminate them, for it is your response to stress, but to channel it to something beneficial. Use that nervous energy to highlite a high energy worker. How? If you are prepared for the interview and ready to tackle whatever comes your way with dignity and humour, what will shine through is the energy.
Let’s get this straight – I HATE interviews – both giving them and receiving them. So because of that I make sure I go out on at least one interview a month (to keep me current with business) and try to get a contract to help in the selection process at least once a quarter (to keep me current with business). Does it get easier? The heart racing, the sweaty palms, the insecurity? For me, no, not at the beginning, but I am better prepared each time, and my heart really DOES stop racing once we’re into the interview, and I make sure I wipe my hands surreptiously on my legs every so often, and I find myself enjoying the situation as I am pleased with my responses and make mental notes to correct what I don’t like. And yes, this is from both sides of the table.
Interviews
Once you’ve sent off your Resume and Cover Letter, you don’t have to sit back and wait for that phone call. Don’t be afraid to call, email or fax to ask if there is anything you can add to the information you already sent. Keep it brief and make sure you do inquire when interviews will be set up. Notice, not IF you are a lucky contestant, just when. Often interviews are set up for the following week after a deadline, and more often than not interviews are set up way in the future. Rule of thumb – the longer the wait, the bigger the company. These are people wading through the policies of that company, and they must ensure they have covered EVERYTHING, including the schedule of the person doing the actual hiring. One person screens, another sets up initial interviews, then you finally get to the department that will hire you, and hopefully your actual boss, and their boss, etc. Just make sure you like this kind of environment.
You may also get a call almost immediately after your resume is received. This is probably a smaller company, or one in real stress to fill the position. Again, nothing wrong with this scenario, just ensure you do like that kind of environment.
