A Too Common Interview Mistake
People often leave interviews feeling that they went really well.
You sometimes hear from them, “it was a very natural conversation … we had a good discussion … they were really nice etc.”
Regardless of how an interview format is perceived, candidates must not get too comfortable during an interview.
The hiring company is still watching every movement that you make and listening to every answer and how you articulate that answer.
Do not be disarmed by a friendly smile and agreeable body language.
I tell all my candidates to prepare for a structured interview even if it is likely that the meeting will be off the cuff and free flowing.
Engage and smile and answer intently, but do not let your guard down.
Once a candidate gets too comfortable, answers will tend to get elongated or they reveal more than intended as language becomes more relaxed. (swear words are even known to surface, even from people who do not normally swear)
I heard about one candidate this week who during a second interview, became too comfortable with the dialogue and banter with a senior official at the company and ended up speaking out of turn.
This senor executive was challenged by the candidate on something that he had done earlier in his career and the question was not asked in an appropriate manner.
This individual took offense to the question and how it was asked. The candidate who was a top choice for the position was immediately eliminated from the competition. The relaxed nature of the conversation was likely a reason for this misstep.
The candidate felt that they were at a stage in the relationship where professional jousting was appropriate.
This was a mis-read and a fatal mis-fire.
Prepare for every meeting like it is a formal interview.
Stay in control of your grammar, your delivery, your body language and most importantly your message.
This can all be done in an informal setting without coming across as someone who does not have a personality.
Do not fall into the casual conversation trap.
Farewell,
Mike