Get your interviewer talking!
Advice for creating interview dialogue
An interview is all about you, right? Well, not really.
An interview is about your potential future employer’s needs and how your skills and experience align with their needs. Also, it’s about how much they like you and see you as a “culture fit” for their team.
A successful interview is a dialogue, not a presentation (nor an interrogation).
If you’re doing 95% of the talking, you’re doing it wrong. Here are a couple tips:
1) Flip the script
One of my favorite techniques to use in an interview is to start with flipping the script on the interviewer after introductions. Here’s how it might go:
“Thanks so much for taking the time to interview me today. I really admire your company and am honored to be considered for this role. If you don’t mind me asking, could you please tell me more about the role and what kind of candidate you’re seeking?”
Basically, this is asking them for the answers to the test before you take it. Most of the time, they will tell you what they’re looking for. You can then use all of this information to confirm that you’re the ideal candidate while you answer their questions about your skills and experience.
2) Connect personally
I recommend you find some small way to connect to your interviewer personally. Create small talk, listen for their response, and search for personal commonalities, such as a favorite pet, sports team, or even movie you’ve seen. You will have tons of things in common with anyone you meet!
Once you’ve found that commonality, get them talking about it.
“That’s really cool to hear you’re a dog lover too. Can I show you a picture of my dog? I’d love to see one of yours too.”
Reinforce what you have in common in order to make them like you personally and make them evaluate you as a better “culture fit.”
3) Ending Well
Finally, at the end of the interview they’ll often ask “what questions do you have for me?” This gives you an opening to ask questions.
Focus on open-ended, feel-good questions, such as “why do you love working here?” and “what makes your team great?” and “what attracted you to this company?”
Then, always ask:
“Do you have any reservations about hiring me?”
This gives you one last chance to address any concerns they have and also gives you valuable intel about how you come across in the interview. Also, it will give you insight into whether or not you’re likely to even get the job.
Also, check out our jobs!
If you’re in the labor market, our team of recruiters and hiring managers don’t bite! They’re here to engage you in a conversation, understand your skills, and consider you for our open jobs. Check out our jobs here!
