Don't game the interview. Show up, get present, listen and communicate. Demonstrate high character and good interpersonal skills. Take the momentum of the conversation to demonstrate what it will be like to work with you every day. Do your research before the interview and ask intelligent and informed questions that are not self-serving. Demonstrate a passion for the business. Also, when you get in the room, make the conversation about the person you are talking to, not about you. Answer questions openly, honestly, thoughtfully, genuinely, and with positive investment and forward-looking vision along with no fear or hesitation about the full picture, including whatever downside there is in your history or current situation. And lastly, but maybe most importantly, use the interview as an opportunity to find out if you actually want the job and would enjoy working at the company. Realize that the company is selling you on taking the position just as much or more than you are selling yourself as a good fit, so don't get yourself in long term trouble by saying you would be a good fit for a job you don't want. If you feel the need to persuade or convince, that is a red flag that you won't like the job in the long run.
How can you stand out in an interview?
Be sure to ask questions like “What does it take to be successful here?” says former lead FBI hostage negotiator Christopher Voss, in order to focus the conversation on your determination to make an impact.
Showing how “you’re going to be an A player” by asking for a roadmap to success within a company is key, according to Voss.
What’s your best advice for impressing a hiring manager? Weigh in below.