Soul-Search Saturday: Interviews and Achieving Success

Post number 4 for the #30IN30 and today’s topic I think is timely in today’s economic struggle for everyone. At some point, most of us have faced either layoffs or the constant stress of possible layoffs in any field or career path. Interviewing is a constant in our life and some seem to be more polished and poised than others, however with this book I picked up from the library recently: Interview Success – Get The Edge by Julie Gray, everyone can excel at this must have skill!

For me personally, I love interviews because I enjoy conversing and really making my personality and skill-set come to life from what’s on my resume. But also, because of my communications & writing background I enjoy conducting them when I interview celebs as well,however, that is a totally other type of interview but both take preparation; one is just a bit more fun than the other!

In this book, it covers all the bases from what to wear, body language, preparing for different types of interviews and almost every type of question that may come up. The key is being prepared but not to sound too scripted when giving answers to questions like: What was your most challenging situation with a co-worker or manager and how did you handle it? or How well do you work as a team ? or the most basic : Tell me about yourself. By going over how to and not answer these questions and by having concrete examples prepared, your nervousness or uneasiness will diminish and you will start to feel more at ease and exude the confidence you have inside. Also how you dress and mannerisms is also a huge factor and these days with so many applicants for fewer jobs, this can be that small edge for you or what may disqualify you as a finalist for the position.

All in all, research and preparation for anything in life makes for success. Try to research the company and person(s) you will be interviewing with. Google, LinkedIn, Twitter etc are prime tools to find out about anyone and any company. Prepare questions about the position and the person(s), which shows initiative and deflects off of you to have to speak the entire time. This type of book is a key tool to use to your advantage in getting you to your goal and financial independence which is a definite win.