Interviewing Success: Focusing on What Matters Most

When interviewing potential employees, it's essential to understand the importance of multiple factors, but let's dispel the notion that it's about merely listing what is on the resume or how much the interviewee knows about the company. Instead, the focus should be on presenting a well-crafted portfolio of proven experience and skills.

Take, for example, Lauren, who got hired by creating a MailChimp campaign and an eBook to demonstrate her capability and personality. Demonstrating real-world achievements through these mediums can leave a lasting impression on the interviewer.

The Role of the Resume and Interview

Your resume and the interview serve distinct purposes. The resume is your first step into securing the interview, while the interview is when you prove your worth and suitability for the job. Many hiring managers prioritize your fit with their organization during the interview stage.

While it's crucial to know about a company before the interview, your resume should be the cornerstone of your application. Most candidates can spend 30 minutes on the internet to memorize some facts about a company, but true value lies in years of solid experience. This is confirmed and verified through the interview process. Researching the company beforehand, however, can reveal your initiative and interest, making you a more appealing candidate.

Variations in Interview Structure

Interviews and their structure can vary widely. This is highly dependent on who is interviewing you, the job you are applying for, and the individual desires of the hiring manager. Some places prioritize pedigree and references, while others care only about how you performed in the interview, or your connection with the company, or even how you look and act.

Having discussions with current employees can provide valuable insights into the hiring process. Ask them specifically what they are looking for in a candidate. If they give vague or clichéd answers like 'looking for a massive experience, good cultural fit, a leader, or someone proven,' it might indicate a subpar hiring process. Conversely, if they give detailed answers like 'this role requires you to have knowledge of this skill, you will be speaking with these people, so you will need to do this and this, and we need someone to handle this specific project,' it can be a good sign they are trying to fill a specific role or solve a specific problem.

The Relevance of Company Knowledge

While knowing the company in advance is important, it shouldn't overshadow the value of a well-written, factual resume. Some hiring managers might overvalue your personal connection with the company rather than your actual skills. After all, you don't win an interview by declaring how much you know about the company. You secure it through your solid experience and relevant skills, as evidenced by your resume.

Conclusion

Remember, the key to a successful interview is to focus on What Matters Most. Prepare a strong resume highlighting your proven experience and skills, and follow it up with a well-researched, insightful conversation about the role and the company. Good luck with your interviews!