How to Succeed During a Job Interview

Maybe you've bombarded any and all available businesses in your field with resumes and applications and have been waiting by the phone for days hoping for it to ring, or maybe you've specifically targeted one certain organization you just know you're destined to work for. Whatever the case, when the phone does ring (and if you stick with it, it will ring) and you get that coveted interview, what do you to maximize your chances of landing that sweet job you've had your eye on?

The most important thing to remember about a job interview is that it is just that, an interview. It's not an archaic verbal firing squad where your potential employer's only joy is to hurl unanswerable questions at you in rapid-fire succession. Employers are looking for employees who can help them serve their customers and grow their business. If you understand that, and come into the process with that in mind, you'll be able to present yourself to them in an appealing manner.

On the other hand, the interviewing room should not be looked at as a stage upon which you are destined to shine. Don't go into an interview with the intention of foisting yourself upon the company like a waiter trying to sell the special that's been sitting in the kitchen for a couple of days. Of course, you should put your best self forward and showcase the skills you have to offer; however, if you exaggerate and present yourself as the best thing since sliced bread and can't follow through, you end up making yourself look bad.

So what should you do?
• Legwork in advance never hurts. Learn a little bit about the company, where they come from, and where they are going in the future. This will allow you to pose intelligent and thoughtful questions of your interviewer and you will appear as a knowledgeable and interested party.
• Come prepared. This means a little more than picking out the right socks to match your pants (though dressing for the part is an excellent way to make a good impression.) Think about the types of questions your potential employer is apt to ask you. What are you strengths and weaknesses? What are your goals for your future with the company? What are some examples of good and bad work experiences you have had in the past?
• Think of the interview as a conversation rather than an interrogation. Just that subtle shift in perception may be enough to take the burden anxiety off your shoulders and allow the real you to shine through.
• Don't be afraid to showcase your mistakes. Ever hear that old adage about never learning anything if you always do things right the first time? Employers realize that their potential employees are only human after all, they are too, and humans make mistakes. What sets an interviewee apart from the rest is their ability to show how they've learned from those mistakes.
• Don't be caught off guard. Easier said than done, you say? True enough. But if you listen carefully to what your potential employer is asking you (and to what they have told you) you should be able to craft a genuine answer if you pause, take a breath, and think about it.
• Always weave real life examples into your answers. Potential employers only have a short amount to glean what they can about applicants. The more factual information you can give them about how you have operated in the past, the better. Make yourself stand out from the crowd by making the interviewer's job easier.
• Ask Questions yourself. In addition to the old standards of "what will I be doing within this position?" and "how much will I be making?" you should take the time to ask your potential employer what the company's goals are and how you can play a pivotal role in achieving those goals. By presenting yourself as a valuable asset and ally you set yourself apart from other applicants. Also, feel free to ask about the company's growth potential and the possibilities for upward mobility. It shows that you are truly interested in the well being of the company itself. Just remember to be tactful -- you don't want to come off as pushy.
• Follow through and follow up. At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer for taking out of their day to speak with you. Ask your potential employer when they plan to fill the position you are applying for and feel free to check back with them after that deadline has passed. When appropriate, send a short thank you note for the consideration they have shown you during the interviewing process (it never hurts to stay on their good side - you never know when they might have another opening you'd be perfect for.)

If you follow these simple guidelines, the interviewing process should be less stressful and maybe, just maybe, even enjoyable! Relax, take a breath, and let yourself be yourself. Employers appreciate the value in that.