Reply #30: Okay, a bit of a curveball. [View All]

[Deep13]

Two rules for your mindset going into the interview.
1. You are absolutely qualified for this job, no doubt, no question, absolutely.
2. If you are not qualified, see rule #1.


For this kind of company you want to look professional, but not too conservative like I would suggest for an established, main-line company. Unfortunately, I am no guru when it comes to women's fashion, except there does not seem to be a specific uniform like there is for men. Pants suit or suit that extends below the knees, white blouse. Wear a watch, nothing too kitchy. Keep the heels very modest. Interviewers notice details. When I have interviewed, I always wore cufflinks, a tie tack and polished shoes. If you sometimes wear glasses, wear them to the interview. It creates the illusion of being smart. (I'm sure you are, but it is good to look it.) Don't smoke even if invited to do so.

Handshake: Get this right! Come down from the top and give a good firm grip and a solid pump. This is especially true of a woman interviewer who has got to where she is by being strong and will expect the same of you.

I am going to assume that this is similar to a sales position. Talk about how you want to get in on the ground floor and grow with the company. Use lots of action verbs. Maintain eye contact. Keep a few inches between your back and the back of the chair. Draw on past achievements as examples. The important thing is to show how you have solved problems in the past, not necessarily that you have similar experience. Listen to the question asked rather than try to anticipate the next one. Take notes about company information. Ask questions about the company. Convey the sense that you are goal oriented rather than task oriented. That means you are concern with getting it done and not just putting in your hours. How to convey it: just tell 'em.

The purpose of the interview is to get a second interview. If somehow they make you an offer, don't try to negotiate it. Take it or leave it.

"What is your weakest personality trait (or biggest flaw)."
Don't take the bait and don't try to spin a negative into a positive (I work too hard.) Answer that everyone has flaws but that you have learned to grow and improve with experience. Tell them you are a quick study.

After today, go get a copy of "Knock 'Em Dead" by Martin Yakes and read it.

PS: It's Martin Yates, not Yakes.