Developing strong interviewing skills as a candidate is critical to success and can bring several advantages to the interview process. It also helps you navigate the conversation effectively, saving time and improving your outcomes.
When gearing up for an interview with a hiring manager, it’s important to remember that you are not only being evaluated, but you also have the opportunity to evaluate the company you’re interviewing for and the hiring manager. The impression you create during the interview process can greatly impact your decision to join the organization and the hiring manager’s perception of your suitability for the role. The goal is to make a positive and lasting impression, ensuring a successful interview experience for both parties.
Additionally, a positive interview experience contributes to a favorable perception of the company, helping you gauge its culture and potential fit. Ultimately, a successful interview is a two-way street where the hiring manager assesses your suitability, and you evaluate the organization’s alignment with your career goals.
Top 4 Interviewing Skills
There can be several techniques to enhance your interviewing skills as a candidate. Here are our top 4 most important skills to master:
1. Be Prepared
Building a strong first impression starts with thorough preparation. Come to the interview with a clear plan in mind. Research the company, its values, and its industry. Prepare a list of questions that demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the organization. Familiarize yourself with the job description and align your skills and experiences with the requirements. During the interview, showcase your professionalism and organizational skills by actively listening, taking notes, and maintaining eye contact. Engage with the hiring manager and the interview panel, expressing your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
Just as structured interviews promote fairness, being well-prepared allows you to ask thoughtful and consistent questions, ensuring equal treatment among candidates. While discussing your background and experience, demonstrate your preparedness by referring to specific points from your resume. Be ready to provide examples that highlight your skills and achievements. Emphasize how your strengths and experiences align with the company’s needs and why you find the opportunity satisfying. Use open-ended questions to gain deeper insights into the company’s culture, team dynamics, and growth opportunities.
2. Be Friendly and Approachable
Creating a friendly and approachable environment is essential. Show genuine interest in the hiring manager’s and company’s perspective. Listen attentively, ask follow-up questions, and engage in meaningful conversations. Stay confident, but also be yourself. Authenticity and empathy help establish a true connection with the hiring manager. By showcasing your genuine qualities while maintaining professionalism, you can leave a positive and lasting impression.
3. Ask Questions
Remember to ask questions that reflect your curiosity and eagerness to learn. Inquire about the next steps and the timeline for the hiring process. This demonstrates your interest in the role and allows you to assess your fit within the organization. Seek clarity and transparency from the hiring manager regarding the decision-making process and when you can expect to hear back.
4. Enjoy the Experience and Be Yourself!
As a candidate, it’s important to embrace the interview process and enjoy the experience. Be yourself, and let your unique qualities shine through. Display authenticity, empathy, and engagement to establish a meaningful connection with the hiring manager. Remember to show enthusiasm and create an environment where your skills and experiences are valued and understood.
By mastering your candidate interviewing skills and following these techniques, you can effectively prepare for your interview with the hiring manager, make a strong impression, and increase your chances of securing the role that aligns with your career aspirations.
About the Author
Richa Singh | Senior Recruiter, Talent Acquisition
Richa Singh is a Senior Technical Recruiter at Divurgent, where she focuses on recruiting top talent for IT positions. Prior to recruiting, Richa taught biology to undergrad students in India before relocating to the US. She then got her big break in recruiting when the owner of a staffing firm recognized her gift in working with people and she has since recruited in various industries, including medical devices and IT. Richa feels passionately towards making positive impacts in the lives of candidates by matching them with a job where they can be both happy and successful. She enjoys recruiting with Divurgent and loves how welcoming and open to knowledge sharing her team is. Richa attended the Jiwaji University in India, where she earned a Master of Science degree in Microbiology. To learn more about Richa, visit her LinkedIn.
