Job seekers who want to land the job of their dreams need to present themselves in such a way that employers are unable to think of any other candidate when they think of the position they need to fill. This means they need to ENTICE employers.
The word “entice” means to attract and persuade. And that’s exactly what job candidates need to do when talking to prospective employers about a new employment opportunity.
Engage
Be a story teller. The best way for job seekers to engage the interviewer is to creatively illustrate what they have to offer by telling short stories about their experiences. This doesn’t mean delving into imaginary tales of fantasy, it simply means to be prepared in advance of an interview with examples of specific experiences which illustrate important abilities and the skills that they employed to be successful.
It also means being engaged – in the interview process. Job seekers need to pay attention to their surroundings and the interviewer; otherwise it might appear as if they lack real interest in the company and the job opportunity.
Negotiate
Don’t settle. This doesn’t mean that candidates should try and hold an employers hand to the fire either (especially not in this economy); however, it is important for job seekers to know in advance what their skills are worth and have an open and frank discussion to ensure that they are appropriately compensated, whether that is in base salary, sign on or other bonus, commission, benefits, or other perks. This is particularly important for women who recent studies have indicated tend to negotiate less so that over the course of their careers they continue to earn less than men.
Talk
Communication is vital. How else can interviewers learn more about job seekers and job seekers learn more about employment opportunities and the company? And having a smooth flowing conversational style shows comfort and ease, an important quality for job seekers to demonstrate. Remember: conversation is the name of the game.
Impress
Dress to impress. Yes, first impressions do count. That means job seekers need to dress and behave appropriately. That does not always mean a suit and tie; instead candidates need to consider the type of position and the company and then wear clothing that fits the environment.
It is also important to behave properly. Avoid distracting movements – playing with hair or clothing, shifting positions frequently, drumming fingers – and make sure to make eye contact without overtly staring. And don’t forget to be polite, shake hands when appropriate and smile.
Confirm
Ensure understanding. This means job seekers need to confirm not only that they have no further questions, but that neither does the interviewer. In addition, candidates should confirm their understanding of what their role will be, what the company has to offer, what they have to offer the company and why they are a good match for the current opportunity.
Educate
Do research. Before job seekers head off for their interview (or even before they apply for a position) they should educate themselves about the company and the position for which they are applying to make sure it is a good fit. Then once they have an opportunity to interview they need to educate the company about who they are and what they have to offer.
Job seekers just need to remember to be memorable when they interview. And they can do that if they ENTICE employers.
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