Get that job you want

Unless you're starting out in your career or returning after a career break (enforced or otherwise!), most of us have limited experience of going for interviews, says Hilary Jeanes of PurpleLine Consulting.

"The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results." ~ Benjamin Franklin

"Be so good they can't ignore you." ~ Steve Martin

"Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell 'em 'Certainly I can!' Then get busy and find out how to do it." ~ Theodore Roosevelt

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If you're looking for a new job and you've been invited for an interview, you've done well to get over that first hurdle.

Making a positive impression when you've had little interview experience or it was a long time ago can be a challenge. It can also be difficult to get the balance right between being keen and enthusiastic and appearing desperate, which is very off-putting.

Maybe you're feeling nervous about how to project yourself in the right way. Or wondering whether it's worth investing time and effort in preparation, when you fear that the chances of getting the job are low?

Of course, it's important to do your homework to be able to demonstrate what your prospective employer is looking for. And when you want a job it's easy to overlook your own wants and needs from a new role. Recruitment is, after all, a two way process.

You will want to be clear about your own criteria and the evidence you will need to see, hear and feel in interactions with your potential employer to ensure the fit is right for you. Just like buying a new pair of shoes, they might look wonderful and feel OK after a quick try on, but if you experience a lot of discomfort in them you will regret your decision.

You can find some tips on how to do well in interviews here.

I also offer more tailored support to specifically prepare for interviews. This includes:

  • getting in the right frame of mind - and body - so that you feel confident and competent
  • essential research to undertake
  • how to prepare for assessment type activities that you may not have encountered before
  • how to project yourself so that you can demonstrate what your prospective employer is looking for
  • practice answering questions that you are likely to be asked, geared to the job you're being interviewed for
  • confidently answering the question that many people dread - why are you the best candidate.

Here's what two clients say:

"I applied for a role which I knew would be very competitive with hundreds of applicants and only 3 posts. I turned to Hilary for her expert advice and the guidance she gave me throughout the recruitment process was invaluable; from how to better structure answers on the application for, to improving my confidence at interview. The practice interview sessions were extremely beneficial and allowed me to understand what points I wanted to get across and how to do so. The insight Hilary has into recruitment and HR, combined with how she is able to impart her knowledge, no doubt helped me to secure my dream job. I'm 3 months in and couldn't be happier. Thank you, Hilary."

"I wouldn't have got this job if it were not for you and the work we've done together."

If you've got an upcoming interview and want to increase your chances of securing the job you'd love, then get in touch by emailing me at Hilary@PurpleLineConsulting.co.uk.

Hilary Jeanes supports individuals and teams to achieve their potential at work.

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