ACE the Job Interview

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking. Whether you're a seasoned professional or navigating a career pivot, the pressure to perform is real. But what if you could approach your next interview with unwavering confidence, armed with insider knowledge from a recruiting veteran?

This article, inspired by a recent episode of the FutureProof-You podcast, explains key strategies from John Lovig, a recruiting expert with tens of thousands of interviews under his belt, and insights from Dan Yu and Aaron Makelky, M.A. Ed. We'll demystify the interview process and give you actionable tips to stand out from the crowd.

If you prefer to listen: Podcast Version

If you prefer to watch: YouTube Version

The Power of the Pre-Emptive Profile

Many job seekers underestimate the importance of a strong, proactive profile (whether it's your resume or LinkedIn profile). A well-crafted profile doesn't just list your experience; it anticipates and answers potential questions before they're even asked.

• Address Gaps and Pivots: Don't shy away from career transitions, sabbaticals, or periods of unemployment. Explain them concisely and positively. For example, instead of leaving a gap, state: "Career Break for Family Caregiving" or "Sabbatical for Professional Development." Own your full story. LinkedIn allows you to do this on your work history.

• Highlight Acquisitions: If your employment history includes short stints at multiple companies due to acquisitions, make that clear! This demonstrates loyalty and adaptability, not job-hopping. Example: "Acme Corp (Acquired by Beta Inc, then Gamma Corp) – Progressive roles from Analyst to Manager."

By addressing potential concerns upfront, you free up valuable interview time to focus on your fit for the specific role.

Master Your Mental Game: NLP

Nerves are natural, but they shouldn't sabotage your performance. Here's where Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques come in handy:

• Power Posing: Before your interview (even a virtual one!), strike a "power pose" (think Superman or Wonder Woman) to boost confidence and project a positive presence.

• Strategic Smiling: On phone interviews, consciously smile. It changes your vocal tone, making you sound more engaging and enthusiastic. It also releases positive brain chemicals!

• Visual Cues: For video interviews, place a photo or object that evokes positive emotions near your webcam. This helps you maintain a genuine smile and positive demeanor.

These simple techniques shift your internal state, allowing you to project confidence and connect authentically with the interviewer.

Preparation is Your Superpower: CAR Stories and Name Games

Preparation is the cornerstone of interview success. Don't walk in cold!

• CAR Stories: Prepare concise stories that showcase your skills and accomplishments using the CAR method (Context, Action, Result). Have a "menu" of these stories ready to address common interview questions like "Tell me about a time you overcame an obstacle."

• Know Your Audience: Research the interviewers beforehand. If it's a panel interview, create a simple diagram to remember names and roles. Addressing interviewers by name ("Thanks, Susan, that's a great question...") demonstrates respect and makes you memorable.

• Prepare intelligent questions: Have questions prepared for the interviewer.

The Art of the Ask: Closing Strong

Asking insightful questions is crucial. It shows your engagement and helps you assess the opportunity. While standard questions about KPIs and success metrics are valuable, consider this powerful question:

"Assuming we both agree this is a great fit, and I'm hired, what will I have accomplished in the first 6-12 months that will make you confident you made the right decision?"

This question accomplishes several things:

• It's future-oriented and positive.

• It helps the interviewer visualize you succeeding in the role.

• It provides valuable insight into their expectations.

Another powerful question to ask is: "Tell me about a recent project that you're particularly proud of. And what was it that you did to make it so successful?" This allows the interviewer to open up, and helps you to assess if this is a good fit for you.

Apply These Interview Strategies

Acing the job interview is about about preparation, mindset, and authentic connection. By learning and applying these strategies, you'll go from a nervous applicant to a confident candidate ready to capitalize your next opportunity.

Want to get personalized help with your career? Explore the FutureProof-You website for interview training and other career-boosting resources. We have courses around personal branding, networking, LinkedIn, Content Creation, AI Skills all on our website.