Never is personal branding more important than when you’re going for a job interview, particularly if it’s a job you really want. However, most of us enter an interview feeling nervous and powerless and with that mindset, it is hard to feel comfortable and ultimately succeed. What you need to do is take control.
Here are four tips you should take on board in order to perform at your best in your interview.
- The first 15 seconds are the most important
People make up their minds about you in a matter of seconds. Whether you like it or not, a first impression is based on snap visual impressions; the way you look when you enter the room, the first 15 words you say, your clothes, hairstyle, eye contact and smile are all critical visual messages that need to convey the right message for you, the job and the company.
- Lean in, literally
We have mentioned to you before about the importance of body language.
New research by Harvard Business School shows that some poses actually affect our performance because they change our body chemistry.
Poses such as standing tall, leaning in toward another person, or expansive hand gestures convey high power, gravitas and confidence. Crossing your arms across your chest or crossing your legs conveys low power. So, ensure you think about your ‘power poses’ before you get to the hot seat.
- Own your value with a memorable ‘brand sentence’
Be prepared to identify your Unique Selling Point (USP); what is different and special about you in comparison with others and why it matters.
You should also be able to tell interesting stories about your professional adventures that bring your USP to life. Employees want you to have a proven track record of why your USP will contribute to the success of their company.
- Turn the tables on the interviewer
A powerful tactic is to turn the tables on the interviewer so the interview is a two-way conversation. As soon as you can, ask the interviewer questions. Ask them about key initiatives and projects, and the company culture.
Listen more than you talk. It’s a very powerful tactic, because if you work a series of questions into the conversation, you immediately level the playing field and you will come across as a serious, professional candidate for the role in question.
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