This time of year in New England is "pothole" season. The salt, water, and snowplows can find weaknesses in the black top and create large craters in the street. Sometimes as you drive down the road you can see them in advance, and can easily avoid them. As you drive the same route daily, you know exactly where the potholes are and you react in advance to avoid them.
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| Actual Pothole |
But, sometimes you can't avoid those nasty potholes. You may be in an area that you don't drive frequently and you hit an unexpected pothole. Likewise, a new pothole may emerge along your daily route and without advance warning you hit the pothole. Sometimes, the pothole may be so large and so deep that you hit the pothole and bang! The jolt was so violent that you bend your rim and pop a tire. You are now in the break-down lane with a flat tire.
A very similar thing can happen to you during a job interview. Here are 3 "potholes" that may be in your road to job interview success:
1.) Your nerves. You are so nervous that you can't articulate. Your heart is beating so loud that you think the person on the other side of the desk can hear it. You are unable to relax and really give this interview your best effort.
This pothole is totally avoidable. The greater your preparation, the lesser the nerves. The ability to be calm and confident comes only after you have become supremely prepared. Mock interviews are a great way to judge your level of preparation.
2.) Your lack of research. Most likely, if you are in a competitive interview process, the hiring manager will ask you the following question:
What do you know about us?
If you didn't do your homework, it will be obvious. You will hit the pothole, flatten a tire, and be in the break-down lane as the other candidates speed by you in the fast lane.
Do some research about the company you are interviewing with. Know who their leaders are, know about any recent news, know about their products and services.
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| Cover -Hole (pothole at manhole cover) |
3.) Your inability to sell. Sadly, the candidate that gets the job may not be the most qualified, but the one who has the greatest ability to sell. They have a great resume, cover letter and LinkedIn profile page.They have crafted a "you statement", they sell to the position, explain why they are the best candidate, and show passion and enthusiasm for the position.
Do you want to learn more about how to avoid the potholes on your road to success?
Interview Tutor
Professional Career Services
508.365.0077
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