Last week we talked about the perception you choose when headed into a high-pressure situation, like a crucial presentation or a job interview. Followers, we said, have a perception and follow it–leaders have a perception and challenge it. When it comes to interviewing, is it your perception that the interviewER is the leader? If so, think again! In every situation – especially an interview – there is an opportunity for each of you to lead.
So here’s a challenge.
Let’s say you are preparing for a job interview (but it could just the same be a sales call or an employee review with a boss). First, research this company. But then again, you’ve already done that, right? Of course you have. You know their primary customers, their products, the names of key players, why they were in the news last week and more. But do you know their gap?
Ask yourself: What are the gaps in this organization or department? What specific needs are they looking to fill, that if they did, would have the greatest positive impact on their performance? What specific needs do they have beyond this position? Write these needs and expectations in column A on a piece of paper. In column B, list all of YOUR attributes and successes that speak evidence to your authority, credentials, and value. Every single thing you’ve got going for you—list it all and don’t be shy. Remember, this is your time to respectfully brag and be boastful. They want you to. After all, if you don’t, who will? If you don’t, how else will they learn it?
Now, play the matching game. Draw a line between every quality of yours in the second column to the need it could meet in the first column. Chances are, there will be a lot of lines, or you wouldn’t be up for the interview. These are your key talking points! Lead the conversation to the opportunity to start drawing the lines between their needs, wants, desires and goals, and your gifts, talents, experiences and credentials. Leaders make sure those connections between their gifts and the prospective company’s needs are drawn, rather then relying on the other person to make the connection during or after the interview. You know you are amazing and that you bring a gift to this opportunity that no one else can bring. Show them! Step boldly up as your own leader.
Let me know how it goes.
