The Art of Interviewing: The Rehearsal

Congratulations! You have been called in for an interview.  Now what?  Your resume has intrigued the hiring manager enough to want to see you in action.  Here are some pointers to keep in mind before you are sitting across from them.  Approach the interview as if performing in a show.  All good actors rehearse before they perform.  You should prepare to rehearse as soon as you are invited to interview.

Rehearsal:

• After researching the company and job description to gain a handle on what the hiring manager is looking for, gather a list of possible questions you may be asked during the interview. Do some additional research on the internet using the keyword “interview questions.” Many companies prefer to ask behavioral-type questions which ask you to elaborate on how you behaved in response to a specific situation. Select 5 – 10 questions which relate to the job description and the culture of the company (make sure a few behavioral questions are in your list.)
• Brainstorm and make a list of skills you bring to the table from your past experiences. Write down everything that comes to mind and don’t censure yourself. Next score each skill according to the job requirements. Place a value from 1-5 with 5 representing highly skilled and valuable for this position. Use the highest scoring skills in your responses to the interview questions. Keep your skill sheet handy as a reference. As a good actor, practice in delivering your answers naturally and believably. These preparations will build your confidence and minimize nervous answers.

According to Business Week, only 7% of communication involves actual words. The majority is visual 55% (body language, eye contact) and vocal 38% (pitch, speed, volume, tone of voice) Now knowing this:

• Go in front of the mirror with your interview questions and skills sheet and begin to answer the questions while looking directly into the mirror. I know this sounds awkward but it’s better for you to make a weird face into your mirror than in front of the hiring manager. Be aware of any nervous expressions or movements your face or body makes. Awareness is half the battle.
• Ideally, if you can record your voice while answering the questions it will help you be aware of how fast you speak and whether you are clear and understandable. Rehearse the questions until you are comfortable.
• A mock interview is a great rehearsal technique after you are comfortable with the mirror exercise. Find a trusted friend or family member to help you and to be most effective, wear your interview outfit. Hand the questions to your partner and rehearse with them. Afterward, ask them to provide feedback on your posture, speech, and eye contact. Be open to their suggestions and update your delivery as needed.

Using these techniques will improve your poise, speech and comfort level during your interview and this level of preparedness will help set you apart.  Break a leg!