John Shinavier - MA, RYT, LC

Thereare many, many more intangibles at play in an interviewing process besides your appearance and the particular skill set that you bring to the job. I have coached many clients on preparing for an interview that brings about a new empowerment for them, whether they receive the position or not. You only have yourself, your own accountability, and your skills to present yourself in a positive way. No one, who helps you prepare for an interview can promise you anything more than this.

There are so many variables at work that pass unconsciously and consciously between the interviewer and the one being interviewed in the first three minutes of the appointment. Below are some of the topics that I coach the
client in how to give the “Perfect Interview!”

Having had many careers spanning my fifty plus years on the planet, my people skills have been sharpened, and I’ve more often than not gotten the job that I’ve  wanted because I have used these following skills and insights to their best advantage.

• Treat the interviewer as a potential client without kissing up!
• Don’t memorize, but know the important points of your resume
• Rather  than reading your resume, ask what they are looking for  and provide those details
• Watch your body language, it speaks volumes about you
• Ask questions, it shows interest and passion
• Watch your speech, don’t rush, don’t over talk. Stay on your breath
• Listen, lean forward
• Look in their eyes
• Your voice should be level, without losing energy
• Act “as if” you already have the job. This relaxes your body, and reads as confidence
• Tell them, once they’ve identified who they are and what they need, the skills you bring to the position
• Do have at hand, referrals from people, who will speak well of you
• If you’ve been fired, be honest, but make it more about the positive aspects i.e.: what you learned etc.
• It’s okay to ask the interviewer how long they’ve worked for the company. Remember they are not out for your job, their just doing theirs. In answering that question they unknowingly will reveal information, negative or positive about the company.
• What is your web presence? Your future employer might have already checked this. It’s very important that depending on the skills your selling, that you blog, have a web page (new business card) and generally have nothing incriminating on the web that shows you in a negative light.
• Look your best!  Have a set of clothes, dry cleaned, pressed and ready for interviews.  Have a manicure, or at least be aware of what your fingernails look like; torn, and bloody cuticles are noticed and do not inspire confidence.  Wear something that your are comfortable in, but make sure it fits correctly.

All you can do is your best. The above information can help you. This much is under your control.