Talk Radio Interview with Laura Gevanter

Let me interrupt this series on "the Art of Job Interviews" to insert a link to my recent radio interview with Laura Gevanter. Laura is a Life Coach and Owner of Present Tense Coaching. She has her own weekly talk show, where offers her listeners a chance to listen and gain from the expertise of other coaches and professionals in a wide range of disciplines.  Naturally, we discussed Presentation Skills and I thought Laura asked many insightful questions which led to a great discussion.  What do you think? http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lauragev/2012/06/20/presentation-skills-coach--greta-muller 

THE FINE ART OF JOB INTERVIEWS (Part 1)

I have many connections (professional and personal) with people who are either in the position to be interviewed for a new position or driving the interview, so I’ve put together a blog series on the FINE ART OF JOB INTERVIEWS.  In this job market, it is crucial you understand How, Where, When, and Why you make the impressions you do and Who you are making them to… today we’ll look at the HOW.  When you embrace the HOW, with proper focus on the WHAT, you have maximized your ability to convey the right message YOUR message.  

A 2011 survey revealed an all-time high for employers reporting difficulty hiring for critical positions. For the applicant, nerves or anxiety may come into play.  You may never completely release that nervous feeling in your stomach, but acceptance, preparation and practice will go a long way to assure that the “you” you reveal in the interview is an accurate representation of the YOU who will show up for work on Monday.

SHOW DON’T TELL

            The theory that the visual message outweighs verbal is supported by miles of research; yes, even in a job interview, seeing is believing. It has been proven time and again that what your “audience” sees wins (or provides more credibility) than what exact words are said. And just in case you’re wondering, when there is no visual (for example a phone call) HOW (or tone, inflection, etc) wins out over the what.  This does not mean what you say isn’t important. It is.  I cannot advocate lying or exaggerating to make a point.  But making sure your “how” speaks volumes is key. 

            When I saw an article in Fortune Magazine entitled “How to Get a Job: Show, Don’t Tell” by Jennifer Alserver, I was extremely intrigued.  (http://management.fortune.cnn.com/2012/03/14/job-interview-free-work/) 

             I agree whole heartedly that you must SHOW your enthusiasm, professionalism and interest as well as speak of it, and wanted to read what this author had to say on the subject.  I was surprised to read that Ms. Alserver was referring to a trend in the job interview process where subjects are being asked to demonstrate actual job skills! Candidates are being asked to “solve problems on the spot, give feedback on products and research new markets.” They are asked to prepare and deliver presentations to top executives. She cites a client who designed 10 greeting cards in a 24-hour period to win a graphic design position.  In a very specific example, restaurant managers were asked to participate in role-playing tests, in which interviewers played the parts of difficult customers.  (I’m sure they did a great job!)

            This goes far a great resume and an interview. And it makes complete sense! In this competitive job market why settle for someone talking about themselves when they can demonstrate?  In regards to these restaurant managers, I liken it to an acting exercise or audition.  Very quickly, these applicants were called on to convey qualities like “commanding,” “empathy,” “compassion,” and perhaps, “authority and strength.”

          This may sound daunting to someone who is in the interview process or maybe it excites.  But it is most important to approach the interview with the right mind set.  Accept the reality.  You may be called upon to "perform" and it's best to know what you are bringing to the table.  

           

            Next week, I’ll provide some food for thought in regards to preparing a good mindset as you approach a job interview.  In the meantime, if you have any specific questions or concerns, please email me at greta@c3nyc.com and I can contact you confidentially or answer here in this blog.