How to go through job interviews (and get out alive)
There is another perspective from which we should look at job interviews and DremanDo wants to let you in on this little secret.
The other side: recruiters
Reality is, recruiters are in need of something, too. And they might even need it more than you do. When they publish a vacancy, it means that they need someone to accomplish those tasks and do it well; they need someone capable which will smoothly be part of the team and understand as soon as possible the goals of the firm and the internal working dynamics. Is this easy? Honestly, I wouldn’t say so.
The interviewee, aka YOU
Therefore, it might even be the case that they need someone more than you may need them yourself. If you have already another offer or something else waiting for you, you can face the interview thinking that you also need to check whether you like them, whether they sound like a good fit for you and your ambitions.
I know what you’re thinking: it is rare to have already other options or offers. That’s true. But that does not mean that you should go through the interview with a different mindset. Remember that you will probably have to work with the people interviewing you, more or less directly, and you want to like them.
Be yourself
At this point, the best advice we can give you is to just be you. Prepare for the interview but be aware of your talents and their need underlined above.
Do not be afraid to answer spontaneously to questions and to ask something yourself at the end of the conversation. It might be worth asking something about the relationship with supervisors and the openness of the work environment. This is very appreciated, especially in companies striving to be more transparent.
So, head held high and show them who you are. If it is a great match, both of you will feel it and the job will be yours. Otherwise, don’t worry too much and remember that you also don’t want to end up somewhere that doesn’t mirror and appreciate your uniqueness.