Here's the scenario: The job interview is drawing to an end.
You have answered all their questions. You've filled out all their
applications, taken all their tests, and been subjected to all
their background checks.
Almost done. Wait!
Theladders.com suggests "a
job-hunting strategy that will instantly make you more
approachable; hireable; employable; promotable; buyable; bookable;
unforgettable; and, most importantly, call-back-able."
Inevitably, the prospective employer will toss out the
opportunity for you to ask them questions before they wrap up the
meeting. Most career counseling experts will advise you to take
advantage of this opportunity with intelligent questions to
demonstrate the research that you have done and your enthusiasm for
the position. Wait!
Do you really think that they have not already heard the
creative quips that you have so cleverly prepared and rehearsed to
deliver?
Take a chance, experience a risk, and stand out from the crowd.
Be rememberable and it may just score you the position.
Try a couple of these suggested questions from the ladders.com. They "triple-dog-dare you to
answer with one of the following responses."
- "What is it about my background and qualifications that made
you want to talk to me today?"
- "Do you see any gaps in my qualifications that I need to
fill?"
- "Are there any reasons I'm not fully qualified for this
position?"
- "Is there anything I've said today that might hurt my chances
of being hired here?"
- "Now that you have had a chance to meet and interview me, what
reservations would you have in putting me in this position?"
- "What have I accidently said or done during today's interview
that's inconsistent with your perfect candidate for this job?"
A St. Louis HR Manager, Joe Rotskoff, says that if you employ
this strategy, "you will display openness to how others experience
you and you will show a dedication to improving your
self-awareness."
What's the worst thing that could happen?
The interviewer answers with a response that you have some
shortcomings. You've just received critical feedback that you will
be able to use in the next interview scenario. PRICELESS!
So…
Be bold, stand out, take a chance, and you never know, you may
just land that job.
Polly Monahan is an employment counselor at the Warren
County One Stop Center.
