- October 12, 2017
- Interesting Articles, Latest News, Recruitment
The major (k)Nots of a job interview
What Recruiters Really Notice
One of the major motivators for me to become a Career Coach is the opportunity to share what I learned in my years as a recruiter/head-hunter — and now serve it up to the ones who need to know what’s going on behind the scenes of an interview. So let’s open this Pandora’s Box of the recruitment process and talk about your potential biggest interview sins from a recruiter’s point of view. Once you’re aware of these pitfalls, you can manage them properly — and that will key up the whole interview, making it professional, pleasant for both parties, and successful for you.
What happens before you even get invited
Formats vary by experience, cultural practice (photo or no photo), and professional field. Don’t spare yourself — research thoroughly, and have it reviewed by a professional or a senior friend with real hands-on experience.
Your first chance to build your image and stand out — show you understand the company and link that to your own background. Keep it concise and PERSONAL. Never template it or reuse the same letter for different employers.
From the moment you walk in, it all counts
Everyone you meet on your way up matters — receptionists included. Smile, greet, and mind your body language while waiting. Keep it professional, but still human.
Noted by every recruiter — it says a lot about you. A healthy, confident handshake is what we’re looking for, especially for sales or assertiveness-driven roles.
You’re there to present yourself and get answers too — but outtalking your interviewer is a major mistake. Manage your emotions, read body language, and ask your own questions.
Calibrate your presentation. You’re not there to please the recruiter, nor to be pleased. Be yourself — your best and most authentic self — and speak frankly about what you know and where you still need to grow.
Blaming a past or current employer for where you are now is a big no. Look deeper — any drive for change comes from within, whether it’s growth, culture, or work-life balance. Find that true answer.
Send a Follow-Up
Do something not many people do — send a follow-up letter. It could be a brief thank-you note or something more elaborate; either way, make it personal and refer to specific parts of the interview. These “bridge builders” repay generously.
Choose the Middle Way — Not Too Early, Not Too Late
If you’ve reached the offer stage, well done — you’ve done your best and you’re invited to the special dance. This part requires dexterousness, patience, and realism.
You won’t be seen as nicely proactive if you’re the one to raise the salary question first — that’s a hand the employer loves to play. If they really want you, an offer will come. Don’t let the “little puppy” bark out a number just to relieve pressure, and don’t let the “super size me” ego overprice you out of the deal.
Many people — especially women — are ready to accept an offer without any negotiation. Be wise, and don’t make assumptions on the company’s behalf. A free coaching trick: use open-ended questions to discuss the range the company has in mind, rather than naming a specific number yourself. Listen actively again — it gives you flexibility and helps you make your own decision.
If you find these tips useful and feel there’s more to it — and I can assure you there is — the best thing you can do is invest further in your career development and success, and start working with your own personal career coach.
Authored by Teodora Atanassova, Certified Professional Coach and strong professional in the field of executive search and management consulting.
Ready to walk into your next interview prepared?
Get in touch with Horizons Bulgaria and let our team help you put your best, most authentic self forward.