There exist limitless opportunities in every industry. Where there is an open mind, there will always be a frontier. ~ Charles Kettering
Is there ever a perfect candidate? While perfect people don’t exist, candidates who want a particular job can do their homework and be prepared to “Ace” an interview. And like the cliché, it does mean going above and beyond the norm. Consider these ten steps toward presenting yourself as the “perfect” candidate for your dream job.
- Have as much knowledge about the company and interviewer as you can find. Make sure you understand the company culture. If possible, work a comment about the company into the greeting. It is okay to say something like, “When I walked into the building, I could sense a positive vibe.”
- Be ready with answers to questions that may be more creative than the usual milk toast of “where do you see yourself in five years?” An interviewer wants to know how you think and who you truly are.
- Ask for a tour of the company. Be respectful and curious. Shake hands and ask questions. Show you are interested.
- If you share a meal, put on your best manners. Show consideration of others. Try to keep the conversation flowing.
- Put yourself in the interviewer’s shoes. Think of why certain questions are asked and what the interviewer might hope to hear. For example, when an interviewer says, “Tell me about yourself?” she will listen for your behavioral competencies and confidence. The smart reply is to succinctly tell of achievements that will set the tone for the interview.
- Ask the right questions, ones that give you the chance to reveal your style and character, such as: “I value working with team members, but I have to admit I sometimes like to take the lead, too. Will there be opportunities for both these roles in this position?”
- Wear appropriate attire for the interview. Look polished and professional regardless of how the culture says is office attire. The right appearance suggests you care about the impression you wish to make.
- Be certain to make eye contact when you speak and don’t interrupt the interviewer even if you think you know what he/she is going to ask.
- At the conclusion of the interview, ask about next steps and reiterate that you want the job.
- If an agency is submitting you as a candidate, make sure to work only with the agency representative. Do not contact the hiring company directly as this may put your results in jeopardy; it tends to show disrespect and other negative traits.
Staffing agencies such as Lingo Staffing are experts in matching qualified candidates with job opportunities. While they are an excellent resource for information about a company, a candidate should do additional homework to prepare for the interview. And finally; never underestimate the value of practice.
About Lingo Staffing
Lingo is a full-service staffing firm dedicated to providing top quality services to its clients and its candidate pool. With extensive knowledge and experience in light industrial, administrative, and professional employment, Lingo encompasses the capabilities and resources necessary to help you get ahead.
Our experience and commitment to client satisfaction make us the perfect choice to manage all of your staffing needs. Our staff guarantees exceptional customer service with an expedient response time.
Our experts are located at an office near you: Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Tennessee, and Georgia.
Lingo, the language of On Demand solutions. Contact us at an office convenient to you.