This is especially true when it comes to your job interviews. Most hiring professionals know whether they might hire someone, or not, soon after the opening handshake and some small talk. Those hiring professional who were interviewed said it takes them just 10 minutes to form an opinion concerning job seekers, despite meeting with staff level candidates for 55 minutes and management level candidates for 86 minutes.
Remember, your interview starts the moment you arrive; so you need to project enthusiasm and confidence from the start. The opening moments of the conversation often set the tone for the rest of the discussion; therefore, it is wise to prepare especially well for the first few interview questions.
Pay close attention to those four most important questions they want to know the answers to:
- Why are you here?
- What can you do for us?
- Will you fit in? (Will you fit in with their values and culture?)
- What makes you different from all of the other candidates / applicants we have and will interview? (Will you go the extra mile?)
Your answers to these questions should reflect your own personal experiences. These answers are short narratives describing the time you overcame a crisis, successfully led a team project, met a difficult deadline, saved an employer 15% on shipping, etc.
Know the company. Do your homework. ALWAYS research the company before you interview. Know what they do! Know what their major products and services are! Know who their competitors are! KNOW WHO THEY ARE! Here's why: Remember the question...Why are you here? The first few minutes of the interview are the time to flatter them. Show them that you've done your research and not only know something about their company, but also have several good reasons for being enthusiastic about working for them.
Know your role. Play your role by getting into character: the character you play is that of a problem solver, not a job seeker. You are excited about this company and you know you can help them achieve their goals. You can score big by showing you are both knowledgeable and excited about this opportunity.
Following are some common questions you will often encounter at the beginning of an interview:
- Tell me a little about yourself?
- What do you know about us?
- Why are you here, today?
- Why are you looking to change jobs?
- What is your most important accomplishment to date?
- Why should we hire you (over everyone else we've interviewed)?
Be prepared - research...research...research. And have an awe-inspiring interview. Go for the gold!
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