We often hear people complaining that their interview went very well but they still didn’t get the job. Not many people realize that an interview is a battle for the employer, just as much it is for the employee. It is on the shoulders of the hiring manager to choose the correct candidate for the company, who would not only be an asset to the organization but also gels well with other employees and fits in with the culture of the organization.
Read on to find out what an employer is thinking while having a face-to-face interaction with you.
Skill Test
Once you are called for an interview, it is safe to assume that the manager feels you have the skills required for the position. They know your work experience, educational background and have called you for a personal interaction to know you better. The employer is usually sitting in an interview assuming that everything that they’ve read in your CV is true. They would like to discuss beyond that and know you better. It’s your job to not make them think otherwise and change their mind about your CV image.
Interpersonal Skills
The manager knows that they have to see you a lot more than they see their family, so it is very important for them to like you. When they are talking to you face-to-face, their mind is judging if you can adjust well in a team, conduct yourself with others and fit into their organizational structure So make sure you project yourself as someone who is friendly and malleable as per the need of the hour. (Quick Tip: Don’t overdo the ‘Oh! I am so friendly’ bit as pretense can be quite a put off)
Money matters
You may not realize it, but it’s not only the HR manager who is concerned about the pay package that you will pick up from the company. The interviewer is also wondering if he can afford you. In case, you are earning far lower than position offers, the interviewee may start wondering why you are not earning as much, and begin to doubt your capability. So make sure you handle the salary question right.
Over-qualified
The interviewer’s mind will be assailed by doubts if he sees you as over-qualified for the position available. As much as they might like you, they will be apprehensive of you getting bored on the job too soon and leaving the organization; they may also wonder about your salary expectations. So if you really want to work with this particular organization, express your commitment and desire to work with the company even at a lesser pay if needed, focusing on your keen interest in the profile. Clearly communicate your enthusiasm for the role.
The true you
You can’t wear your heart on your sleeve when you go for an interview, but the employer expects certain honesty in whatever they ask you. Be very tactful when answering questions such as your strengths and weaknesses. You can’t say being a ‘workaholic’ is your weakness. Please remember that the interviewer has dealt with many people and knows a bluff when he says it, also calling your strength your weakness is passé. The interviewer will only deduct points in their mind while you blabber on about how you love your work and that’s your only weakness. Spare yourself the wasted breath. Be quirky and honest about your personal characteristics to be more likeable at an interview.
