I think I've found the best strategy for an effective job interview...go into the interview not entirely interested in the job. You don't stress as much, and actually it turns out to be a much easier and informative interview than if you go into it 'so nervous you want to puke' because you know this interview will make or break your chance for THE perfect job.
(Note, I didn't say go to the interview unprepared and just wing everything. No, that won't work at all. )
I had an interview yesterday for a temporary job that could result in permanent employment. Thing is, I'm moving out of state in a few weeks, so accepting a full-time job wouldn't work for me. As much as I didn't really want to go on this interview, I decided to go and use it as a practice interview.
I dressed the part very well, printed out my resume and tucked it into my professionally padded notepad. The main reason I was reluctant about this position is that it is a good 45 minute drive (w/o traffic) from my house. I'm not a morning person but having to leave at 6:30 a.m. to get to work at 8:00 a.m. doesn't seem like much fun. However, I headed to the interview getting there 30 minutes early. I sat in my vehicle and looked at job interview tips on my blackberry until 15 minutes before then I put my game face on, wiped off the sweat from my brow (not from nervousness, but because it was HOT) and walked in.
As soon as I met the attorney I was to interview with, he looked at my residence city and immediately freaked out a bit. I knew right then and there that he'd written me off. Funny thing is, from that point on the interview was excellent. I sold myself like never before, asking him exactly what he needed and telling him point by point how I could assist him to remedy the stressful situation he was in because of firm growing pains. I asked more questions than I ever have before and even gave insight on operating their document retention system (they still use the X drive). We talked for a full 30 minutes and probably 20 minutes in I knew I had this job. As I was leaving he actually was telling he was calling my recruiter ASAP. I knew it wasn't to badmouth me. True to his word as soon as I left he called my recruiter and offered me the position.
I still wasn't 100% ready to accept because of the drive, but once my recruiter and I talked about ensuring it was only a 5 week assignment and how I really, really liked the firm and what I'd be doing, I decided to accept it. I can live with an extended commute for a short period of time. It'll give me more experience in a portion of the legal field that I really like, plus extra money for my cross-country move.
I have to say hands down it was the best interview I've ever had. I'm not saying this approach is 100% fool-proof but I think it'll work for me. I won't freak out, stammer, rehearse so much that I lose focus on actually selling myself effectively. I've been on plenty of interviews for the 'perfect' job and I walk out of the interview upset about things I've said, how I've said them and knowing that I didn't even come close to landing the job.
