During your next job search, you’ll want to do all you can to increase your chances of being hired. Part of your plan should include personally and professionally impressing the interviewer. For this reason, it’s important you find ways to treat the interviewer like you would a client.
The Interviewer Will Admire Your Knowledge
Researching the company before your interview will help you discuss why you want to work there. Peruse the website to determine the company’s history, location, size, mission and values. Read the annual report and listen to the most recent quarterly earnings conference call to find out about new products, company risks and current revenue status. Check out blog posts to see what topics the company is interested in. Also, visit LinkedIn to determine what type of news the company finds important. Check out Facebook and Twitter to find out the tone of the company, how engaged it is with its customers and how it responds to complaints. In addition, Google the organization and read what news comes up. You’ll be able to speak factually about the company and show you’re the best candidate for the position.
The Interviewer Will Be Engaged in Your Conversation
The more you engage the interviewer in conversation, the greater the potential they’ll want to work with you. If you go on LinkedIn and check out each interviewer’s profile, you can determine their background, position within the company and what personal and professional interests you have in common. Ensure each interviewer can see you viewed their profile so they know you’re proactively doing research. During your interview, use the interviewer’s name whenever possible. Maintain eye contact. Be alert and smile when appropriate. Let the interviewer lead. Ensure you listen more than you speak. Provide well-thought-out answers. Subtly mirror the interviewer’s posture, speech pattern or tone of voice to show you’re engaged in what they’re saying.
Your Follow Up Will Be Appreciated
Following up with the interviewer shows you appreciate their time and are interested in the position. Before leaving your interview, ask when you should expect to hear back about the role. Within 24 hours, send an email or handwritten card thanking each interviewer for meeting with you. Bring up a few topics that were discussed. Show your excitement about the position and how the company may benefit from hiring you. Be sure you check your spelling, grammar and punctuation to show you communicate clearly and pay attention to detail.
If you haven’t heard anything within the stated timeline, follow up with the interviewer by phone or email. If you don’t hear back within a few days, follow up again. If you still don’t hear anything, move to your next opportunity.
Work With a Top Financial Recruiter in Chicago
Treating the interviewer like a client builds rapport and shows you’re genuinely interested in working for their company. For help securing your next accounting or finance role, reach out to Casey Accounting & Finance Resources to work with an award-winning financial recruiter in Chicago!
