Mashable's latest #BizChats Twitter chat discussed ways in which candidates can create a lasting impression in a job interview.
[seealso slug="pre-interview-jitters-bizchats"]
Several interview experts helped facilitate the conversation, hosted by @MashBusiness, including: Heath Lehman, career expert and CIO of QBOT; Kate White, career expert, NYT bestselling mystery author and former EIC at Cosmopolitan; Karalyn Brown, career blogger & LinkedIn expert; Kevin Kermes, founder of All Things Career; Meghan M. Biro, CEO of Talent Culture; and Susan Joyce, online job search expert and president of NETability, Inc.
Over the course of an hour, @mashbusiness covered an array of questions, ranging from the most unusual questions a candidate might be asked, to ways in which a candidate can navigate and negotiate potential salary questions.
Check out highlights from the chat in the Storify, below:
[View the story "#BizChats: Ace Your Next Job Interview" on Storify]#BizChats: Ace Your Next Job InterviewMashable hosted a #BizChats Twitter chat to share the best advice for having a great interview experience. Storified by Mashable· Wed, Mar 11 2015 22:00:58
Everyone knows that you only have one chance to make a great first impression, so you've got to make it count -- that's probably why job interviews can trip up even the most qualified, confident and prepared candidates. Sometimes, the key to having an amazing interview experience is to just be yourself. Most would say it's easier said than done, but it is possible.
@mashbusiness and several interview experts participated in a #BizChats Twitter chat to discuss the best methods toward having a great job interview. Welcome to our #BizChats Twitter chat! Today we'll be discussing the best ways to ace a job interview. Please introduce yourselves!Mashable BusinessA warm welcome to our interview experts: @kevinkermes, @InterviewIQ, @katemwhite, @heathlehman, @MeghanMBiro, @JobHuntOrg! #BizChatsMashable BusinessQuestion 1: Q1. How do you prepare for a job interview? #BizChatsMashable BusinessA1: 1st tip - Please do it. So many don’t. Heard a great quote. “Amateurs prepare to succeed. Experts prepare so they never fail.” #BizChatsKaralyn BrownGoogle Alerts should also be set and utilized. That way, whenever the company is mentioned on the web you get the information. #bizchatsHeath LehmanQ1 #BizChats - Review the job description carefully - know your strongest connections to the job.Susan P. JoyceA1 #BizChats - Research the interviewers -- LinkedIn and Google -- know if you have anything in common.Susan P. Joyce@mashbusiness Q1. Become best friends with Google. Draft questions. Discover and explore their social media presence. #BizChatsTalkthatTraceQ1 Homework! Not just company website, twitter, etc but interviewer's background (people love to talk about their accomplishments) #BizchatsKate WhiteQ1 (2) ... Also, rehearse all answers to possible questions #BizChatsKate WhiteA1: Focus on researching the company AND individual. Think in terms of problems you solve - not jsut skill sets. @mashbusiness #bizchatsKevin Kermes#BizChats A1: Review for yourself why you want the job, and why you'll think you'll be good at it. Have evidence/examples ready!CareerleafKnow the job. Know the company Know the leaders
#bizchatsHeath LehmanA1: Watch this TED talk too. http://t.co/KGXhPya9nf Instant, easy & free boost– power posing increases confidence. #BizChatsKaralyn BrownA1: Research Co., Research Interviewer, Research Position. Define examples that show competency & problem solving acumen in it #BizChatsBenjamin Benitez@mashbusiness #bizchats - know how your skills align with co. objectives - they will want to know.Jennifer SimpsonA1: Understand *why* you want the job. This will help you succeed along the way. #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroA1 @mashbusiness review company website/social channels, research industry trends, & read recent work by company executives. #BizChatsYasA1: Research and try to get sense of the company culture - This matters. #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroQuestion 2:Q2. What questions should you always be expected to answer in an interview? #BizChatsMashable BusinessA2: Why should I hire you? Think of it as the value you’ll provide. #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroA2 #BizChats. What makes you the most qualified and our number 1 choice?Jim MarchettiA2 #BizChats - "Tell me about yourself" - use it ti find out what they're REALLY looking for @mashableKevin KermesA2: Any question that reveals character - be careful here. Always be prepared to answer honestly. #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroA2 #BizChats - What do you know about us? Question 3:Q3. How do you respond to a question you don’t know how to answer? #BizChatsMashable BusinessA3 #BizChats - Carefully! Ask for clarification. Take a minute to think about it.Susan P. Joyce@mashbusiness A3. I’d try to redirect the question in an area that I do know about. #BizChatsTalkthatTraceQ3: Be honest. Say, “I don’t know the answer to that question, but I’m going to find out.” #bizchatsHeath LehmanA3: Expert Tip Use the question as an opportunity to follow up and reach out after the interview. #bizchatsHeath LehmanA3: Be open and honest! Try to give example or answer another question similar. Never lie or "stretch" the truth #BizChatsAshley N Santos@mashbusiness A3. Don't try to act like you know the answer. The interviewer knows when you're BS-ing. You're not THAT clever. #bizchatsRyan Lytle@mashbusiness A3 I usually try to answer A question, something similar. Or I ask for clarification — not always comfy w the latter #BizChatsLiz FurlA3: Take a breath from the stomach. Get breathing space by acknowledging it’s a good/interesting Q. Brain oxygen helps clarity. #BizChatsKaralyn BrownA3 #BizChats Ask for more detail or clarification. It shows the ability to ask insightful questions for analysis and allows me to thinkJim MarchettiA3: when you don't know an answer take your time! Remember its not about the question it is about "how" you answer. #bizchatsHeath LehmanA3 #BizChats Ask to clarify. Maybe you just need more information or can turn the question to your advantage @mashbusinessKevin KermesA3 Be honest and acknowledge that you do not know the answer and explain how you would go about obtaining the information you need #bizchatsGreg WalshA3 You can buy time by asking interviewer to elaborate a little. Don't say "I don't know." Say something like.... #BizChatsKate WhiteA3 (2) ..."I'm not completely familiar with that but..." then go into detail about something related that you can be articulate on #BizChatsKate WhiteA3: If you don’t understand the question, rephrase it & ask is this what you mean? You’ll get some breathing space and clarity. #BizChatsKaralyn Brown#BizChats A3: Pause, compose yourself and give a straightforward answer. Even, "I'm unsure but will follow up with you on that" will impressWLCCareerDevelopmentQuestion 4:Q4. What are the weirdest questions you’ve ever had to answer in an interview? #BizChatsMashable BusinessA4: If you were a cereal, what type would you be? :-) #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroA4 #BizChats - Part of this job description is cleaning the restrooms. OK? (no!)Susan P. Joyce#bizchats A4: Would you wash my car to get this job? Only ans yes if you are applying to a carwashHeath LehmanA4 #BizChats (as with most vets) "Have you killed anyone?" Unfortunate & shallow, but it happens. #BizChats @mashbusinessKevin Kermes@mashbusiness A4. Not so much weird as it was surprising. I was asked what top news stories broke within the past 24 hours. #BizChatsTalkthatTrace@mashbusiness A woman who works with me now was once asked how to spell "curriculum" #BizChatsBrad Karsh#BizChats A4: "If you arrived at a red light and it never turned green, what would you do?" #interview #questionAsyncInterviewA4. What came first, the chicken or the egg? #BizchatsThe It Girl@mashbusiness Paper slip, stapler, or tape: Which one are you and why? #bizchatsBrad KarshA4 #BizChats "Glass of milk and Styrofoam cup of milk. Which gets warmer, faster and why?" (I didn't get the job :-)) @mashbusinessKevin KermesDescribe a person you hate and why #bizchats #INTERVIEWFAIL @mashbusinessHeath LehmanA4: What’s your favorite type of coffee? What does this reveal about the true you? #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroA4: If you found $100 what would you do? $1million? #bizchats Ans to both "No I don't Steal" #bizchatsHeath LehmanA4: "If you could be any animal, what would it be and why?" A cat...does your life insurance pay out 9x? #BizChatsPatrick HayslettA4 #BizChats - Do you know what these are? He held a wireless router in 1 hand a switch in the other. They had nothing to do with the job.Jim MarchettiQuestion 5:Q5. What are the best questions to ask your interviewer about the job or company? #BizChatsMashable BusinessA5 #BizChats Advice: Keep focused on uncovering what stands between your new boss and what they covet (promotion, $, etc.)? @mashbusinessKevin KermesA5: Try to get a picture of the challenges. If there’s been a restructure ask about that. New jobs have different challenges #BizChatsKaralyn BrownA5: Who are the most successful employees in your org and what did they do to achieve it with you? #bizchatsHilary BauderA5: Depending on the job ask about the expectations for 3,6,12 months. This is still relevant if you’re the expert they are hiring #BizChatsKaralyn BrownA5 #BizChats - What is the key thing someone does to be a success at this job?Susan P. Joyce.@mashbusiness A5: How would you like to see the person in this roll in 2 years? #BizChatsJose Melgar@mashbusiness A5. “What is one thing you wish you knew before your started your career/job that you know now?” #BizChatsTalkthatTraceA5 #BizChats - What are the next steps in your process? Get dates, names, and contact info. Critical! WRITE IT ALL DOWN!Susan P. JoyceA5: What is a typical day? What is the average turnover rate for people in this dept.? How did this position become available? #BizChatsAshley N SantosA5: I love asking "why do you like working here?" #BizChats @mashbusinessBorn & Bred in BklynA5 #BizChats - Is this a new job? If no, where is the person who had this job? (hopefully promoted)Susan P. JoyceA5: What’s your leadership style? #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroQ5: Ask questions like: What does success look like in this role? How does your company acknowledge accomplishments? #bizchatsHeath LehmanA5 #BizChats - What do you like best about working here? Least?Susan P. Joyce@mashbusiness Q5. Always ask about the company culture #BizChatsHack Your Interviews@mashbusiness A5 how could I exceed your expectations in this role? #BizChatsLiz FurlA5: "Realistically, what is the most important thing I could do to make an immediate impact for the company my first few months?" #BizChatsPatrick HayslettA5 #BizChats - What is a typical (day, week, month, or year) for a person in this job?Susan P. Joyce@mashbusiness A5 what happened to the previous person who had this job? #BizChatsLiz Furl@mashbusiness What is the typical career progression for this role? Or is there a "typical"? #BizChatsBrad KarshQuestion 6:Q6. How should you go about negotiating salary during an interview? #BizChatsMashable BusinessQ6: AT ALL COSTS, get them to speak first. He or she who numbers first generally loses. #bizchatsHeath Lehman@mashbusiness A6. All I can say is, Don’t sell yourself short. Don't be obsessive. Express your worth and BE confident about it! #BizChatsTalkthatTrace@mashbusiness Leave out your needs. We all have bills, long commutes & student loans. They want to know what u can do for them. #BizChatsTalkthatTraceQ6:Ask interviewer:“If you found the perfect candidate for the job, how would you reward them to ensure they take the job" #bizchatsHeath LehmanA6: I have interviewed and hired 100s of people over the last 15 years. I love it when someone knows the #value they bring #bizchatsHeath LehmanA6 #BizChats Think less about negotiating comp than building value and differentiating. @mashbusinessKevin KermesA6 #BizChats Negotiation starts before you interview. Focus on what achieving specific outcomes means for your future boss @mashbusinessKevin KermesA6: Negotiate once you have the verbal offer - Sell first. It's ok to inform along the way. #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroA6 @mashbusiness Come prepared with salary research for similar positions in the industry, and be confident in what you're worth! #BizChatsYasA6 Be informed and know your realistic value. It's best to talk to people in your industry and understand the talent market. #BizChatsGreg WalshA6 Only negotiate once the job is offered. Let them raise the number if possible. Remember they are often low-balling so say... #BizChatsKate WhiteA6 (2) ...."I'm thrilled to get the offer + I'd love to work here, but I was hoping for X amount. Would that be possible?" #bizchatsKate WhiteA6 (3) And don't forget about perks, like industry org membership, tuition reimbursement, etc. Research what the company offers #BizChatsKate White@mashbusiness Q6. Be respectful, tell what are your alternatives and explain your ambitions #BizChatsHack Your InterviewsA6: Best to get them to nominate the $ first. Be very clear about what you are asking for specific $ - based on job/value/market #BizChatsKaralyn BrownA6 #BizChats - Ask about their salary ranges (how many) and where this job fits in their ranges.Susan P. JoyceA6: It's not personal. It's business. Stay factual & you'll negotiate better. Being truly prepared to walk away is powerful. #bizchatsKaralyn Brown@mashbusiness A6 Start by researching typical salary for the job. Aim high. Negotiate to a comfortable place #BizChatsLiz Furl#BizChats A6: Some companies want your salary expectations in your cover letter, but you should avoid naming a number up front if possible.CareerleafA6 #BizChats I also research salaries 1st Then say I earned x previously I know your requirements are different so I'm open to negotiateJim MarchettiA6: Before assessing a dollar figure, have a clear understanding of the package as a whole. Know the perks, benefits, everything. #bizchatsBonnie NatkoQuestion 7:Q7. What are the most effective ways to follow up after an interview? #BizChatsMashable BusinessQ7 An email thank you, but some people do prefer snail mail so you can cover yourself with a handwritten note as well. #BizChatsKate WhiteA7: Always, always, always send a follow up email. Express your gratitude & your interest in the opportunity. #bizchatsBonnie Natko@mashbusiness A7. I think a personalized thank you VIDEO will truly seal the deal. Effort + sincerity = Job offer #BizChatsTalkthatTraceGolden Rule: Find a reason to follow up. A ‘thank you’ isn’t enough anymore. Legitimize your candidacy with relevance. #bizchatsHeath LehmanA7 #BizChats - First, send a unique thank you note/email to each person. Might not email a law firm or "old-line" employer.Susan P. JoyceA7: Don’t leave it too long. If you’re an equal candidate make your interest known. People want people who want to work for them #BizChatsKaralyn BrownA7: Sending a personal note or something out of the ordinary is better than email or a phone call #bizchatsHeath LehmanA7: Send an email no more than 24 hrs after an interview. Include things you discussed & reiterate why you're the best candidate #BizChatsAutumn SmithA7: It depends on who interviews you. If via an agency it’s good to call and express interest and give feedback. #BizChatsKaralyn BrownA7: Social taps are good (paired w/ quick, concise email). That being said, give it space. Don't need to look like the crazy ex. #bizchatsJameson BrownA7: Definitely an email thanking them for interviewing you and reiterating your interest in the position #BizChats @mashbusinessBorn & Bred in BklynA7 #BizChats Don't hesitate to set the expectation time-wise to circle back. Be confident in your value to the organization @mashbusinessKevin KermesA7 #BizChats always always always always with a hand written note of thanks. Also with an email of thanksJim Marchetti@mashbusiness send a thank you note. Be more memorable by solving a problem the company has, if possible. #BizChatsMilapA7 #BizChats - Stay in touch with your contact person, but not more than once a week, unless encouraged.Susan P. Joyce#BizChats A7: a simple, direct email referencing something specific in that interview. Don't mass email a follow-upAsyncInterviewA7 @mashbusiness Individually email everyone you met with and add a personalized message about your conversation. #BizChatsYas@mashbusiness A7. A thought-out email to the interviewer with all the reasons you're right for this job means a lot. #bizchatsRyan LytleA7: Whatever you do....Don't overall yourself. It's important to stay true to your brand. #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroA7: Whatever you do phone/email, be sincere.Say what interested you specifically. The format is less important than the sentiment #bizchatsKaralyn BrownA7 #BizChats Think about how you can continue to show value and demonstrate SME (articles, relevant info, etc.) @mashbusinessKevin KermesQuestion 8:Q8. What's your best advice for having a great interview experience? #BizChatsMashable Business@mashbusiness A8 be yourself, but the most professional, enthusiastic, BEST DRESSED version of yourself #BizChatsLiz Furl@mashbusiness A8. Look and dress the role: Presentation is a huge indicator of your seriousness about a position. #BizChatsTalkthatTrace@mashbusiness A8. Relax and be yourself. You're more likely to make a good impression if you're genuine & likeable. #BizChatsMilapA8: Be yourself. It's ok to be confident about your skills. Show them why you're the best candidate for the job. #BizChatsAutumn SmithA8: The interview is a conversation. People want to see the REAL you. Focus on truly understanding the Qs. This helps you relax.#bizchatsKaralyn BrownA8: Be welcoming. Be open. Be transparent. Be honest. Be engaging. #bizchatsBonnie NatkoA8: If you don’t ace an interview you’ll do much better on the next one. Practice! Don't get lazy. #bizchatsMeghan M. Biro@mashbusiness A8. BE YOURSELF! Recruiters speak with candidates everyday they know when you're being genuine vs when you're not #BizChatsBuku@mashbusiness Q8 Create a personal connection, always listen to the interviewer, be smart and don't overtalk, stay calm and enjoy #BizChatsHack Your Interviews@mashbusiness A8. Fully understand the company, including history and culture. #bizchatsRyan Lytle@mashbusiness A8. Have enthusiasm for the role. And be prepared to answer tough questions. #bizchatsRyan LytleA8: Be yourself and understand how your talents will strengthen the workplace culture #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroA8 #BizChats Think of it as a chance to build a new relationship. You CANNOT go wrong with this mindset @mashbusinessKevin KermesRELAX Practice Be prepared Slow down and speak clearl When in doubt, stop talking. Get lots of rest the night before. #bizchats #RulesHeath LehmanA8: Practice your intro/bio & answers to common ?s. Know your goals & skills and interview the company while they interview you #BizChatsGreg Walsh@mashbusiness A8. Ask for a business card!! And give (make) some of your own! You need their info to keep in touch! #BizChatsTalkthatTraceA8: Be sincere about wanting the job. It comes across. Make the interview about genuine communication No over rehearsed pitches #BizChatsKaralyn BrownA8 #BizChats "Acing" the interview is as much about finding the right fit as it is weeding out the wrong ones @mashbusiness #winning :-)Kevin KermesA8: Caress it in the direction of being conversational. When a flow begins, good things r bound to come. Genuineness will blossom #bizchatsJameson BrownA8 #BizChats - Remember you want to know if it's a good place to work -- interviews are definitely a "two-way-street"!Susan P. JoyceClosing Comments:Thanks everyone and thanks for having me @mashable! “@mashbusiness: Thank you for joining today’s #BizChats!”Kate White@mashbusiness Really loved to jump in today's #bizchats. Looking forward to more. So engaging & lots of great ideas thrown around.Bonnie NatkoGreat #BizChats about interviewing going on NOW. I know it's spring break but I promise you can go back to napping right after.iCareersThank you for hosting me! I've enjoyed this conversation. #DreamBig and always...Be True To You. #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroThis is a great conversation! I'm honored to be here with each of you. Definitely a timely topic. #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroVery interesting points being raised tonight @mashbusiness If you are a #jobseeker or on a #jobhunt take a look now! #bizchats #goodadviceKennedyPearceLoved it! Thanks again for the invite to #BixChats @mashbusinessKevin Kermes@mashbusiness Great group in #BizChats today! Fun and interesting and, hopefully, helpful to job seekers. Good luck all job seekers!Susan P. Joyce@mashbusiness Thanks for this session, we had a lot of fun :) #BizChatsHack Your Interviews@mashbusiness thanks for hosting! I had a blast and learned so much!Liz FurlBIG Thanks to #bizchats community and the @mashable staff! @mashbusiness @KevinKermes @InterviewIQ @katemwhite @MeghanMBiro @JobHuntOrgHeath LehmanThanks again loved it! Hope we helped someone #FindyourdreamjobHeath LehmanThis is a lively community! It's awesome to be here today. Your energy exudes. #bizchatsMeghan M. BiroThank you, really enjoyed my time here and it was great refresher. Enjoy your time :-)
#BizChatsDalia@mashbusiness and experts. WOW thanks for injecting energy into my job search. You all ROCK #BizChatsJim Marchetti@mashbusiness loved the #BizChats today. I'm hooked. Do you post them for non participants?Jim MarchettiThank you @Mashbusiness! I had another great time chatting with you all. Until next time... #BizChatsBrad KarshWe caught the tail end but already see a lot of value here, thanks everyone! #bizchatsGG Media