Pitching for a position is a tough hoop to jump, but the real hurdle comes in the form of an interview.
Shifting the dynamics of an interview is a concept often applied by sales teams. But pitching a sale is not very different from pitching for a job.
Conventionally, the interviewer controls the conversation. But just like a smart salesperson, armed with a professionally written CV, you can change the dynamics and direct it as you please.
Read on and find out how you can change the dynamics during an interview and go for the kill.
Higher Ranking Interviewers Are More Willing to Speak Freely
Before we start discussing how to take control of an interview, here’s an interesting finding by Dr. Linsey McGoey of the University of Essex. In her article titled Power and Money Don’t Necessarily Buy Smart Philanthropy Linsey discovered that the higher the social rank, the freer the interview would be. Elites are free even when discussing matters normally considered uncomfortable.
Chances are, your interviewers wouldn’t mind going off the ‘interview script.’
But you must be very sensitive, and free with conversation otherwise don’t read any further.
Allow the Interviewer to Feel Comfortable
It would be extremely rude and unprofessional to take over the conversation right from the onset Allow the interviewer some time to settle in. Let them ask questions about you and get comfortable.
By the time you are sitting for an interview, prospective employers have gone through your CV and interacted with your qualifications, achievements, and strengths. It’s imperative to work with a professional CV writer so that your CV can highlight the best about you.
The more they know you, the more comfortable they feel. Let them have this part of the conversation.
Look for an Opportune Moment to Interject
When the interviewer seems comfortable and you feel that you’ve shared a lot about you, interject and ask an open question.
Ask the interviewer, especially if they would be your immediate boss if they feel that you are the kind of person they can get along with. Chances are, the interviewer will not resist the temptation to respond and probably in a positive way.
Ask the Interviewer Why They Joined the Company
Whereas your history was impeccably captured by the professional CV writer, you know little about your interviewer.
People like talking about themselves. The opening question would cause the interviewer to put down their guards and be open to further questioning. You can ask the interviewer why they joined the company and what makes them stick.
It may take them back, but the interviewer is likely to briefly diverge and explain what makes them stay.
Go Deeper and Ask Why You Should or Shouldn’t Joint the Organization
Interviews for senior level positions are less about the qualifications and experiences, and more about the kind of person you are. When you feel that the interviewer has exhaustively answered the second question, tactfully ask why they think you should or shouldn’t join the organization. If the interviewer seems flushed, chances are he or she’s not the kind of person you wish to work for.
But, if they sit back and ask you to clarify your question, you have the green light to carry on with the conversation. Connect the job requirements with your personality, experiences and qualifications, and show how you will make an impact.
Approaching high-level interviews this way will help you establish vital bonds with the interviewer and help you clinch the deal.
