It’s May and life is beginning to look a little back to normal in many ways . . . thank goodness. Lots of shots in arms, mask mandates relaxed somewhat, restaurants back in business and crowded, and the jewelry business booming in most areas. We have had clients coming out of the woodwork asking, no begging, for help in finding bench jeweler talent. If you’ve ever thought, “maybe I should see what’s out there and what they’re paying”, believe me now’s the time. We’ve got bench opportunities in 16 states, and they’re all ready to hire ASAP.

From “Life’s Little Instruction Book” remember to . . .

I don’t know about you, but “test day” in school was not my favorite day. What to study? What kind of questions will there be? How long will it take me? Will I even have time to finish? The word test alone can be a “stressor” on your nerves. I prefer, and many of you have heard me say, that during your in-person interview the time you spend on the bench is an “audition” not a test. You’re not trying to get a grade necessarily; you’re auditioning for a role or position in the company. To that end, I hope this article helps. . .

Don’t Interview – Audition

If you want to enjoy career advancement, you will face the daunting task of interviewing. Interviewing is a sales process which is not necessarily in your comfort zone unless you are a sales professional.

After being in the Recruiting Profession for nearly 25 years, I’ve realized it is not the most qualified person who receives a job offer, it’s the person who conducts the best “audition.” Think about actors who experience a screen test before they are selected for a specific role. View your interview as an audition, where you want the interviewers to envision you in the (role) job.

The word interview infers a series of questions and answers. The greatest mistake you can make during a job interview is viewing it as a “fact finding mission.” There is always competition when seeking a new opportunity and you want to be memorable, for all the right reasons.

When you implement the following auditioning tips, you will differentiate yourself from other professionals with similar experience. As a result, you will consistently ace interviews which will enhance your career advancement.
The greatest mistake you can make during a job interview is viewing it as a “fact finding mission.”

TIP 1 – RESEARCH THE COMPANY

Visit the company’s website and “study it”. Know their history/story, lines they carry, philanthropies they support, etc., etc. Google the company and read the most current information being posted online, so you are well informed. Pay special attention to Press and Media, which reveals what others are saying about the company.

TIP 2 – RESEARCH THE OPPORTUNITY

Some jobs are listed on the Employment Pages of each company’s website. Tie in your experience and skills to the specific requirements of the job. Most actors and actresses receive a copy of the script before their screen test; therefore, they understand the role they are auditioning for in the movie.

You must understand the requirements of the job so you can prepare how you will present yourself in your interview. In a job interview, focus on what you bring to the table that coincides with the specs of the opportunity. This will help the interviewer realize you are a fit for the job.

TIP 3 – RESEARCH THE INDIVIDUAL

Learn as much as you can about the person who will be conducting your interview. Their name and information about them may be listed on the company website. Conduct a simple Google Search for their name and review their LinkedIn Profile.

TIP 4 – ARRIVE PREPARED

Following a successful phone interview, the next step will be an onsite interview. If possible, bring your favorite hand tools, a portfolio of your work (if applicable), and it’s a good idea to bring a copy of the same resume that was originally sent to them. Be sure to dress appropriately. You only get one chance to make a good first impression.

If in lieu of a phone interview your first interview is remote, conduct a trial run of the technology that will be utilized and remember to talk to the camera, not the picture of the interviewer on your screen. Be aware of your background, find a private room where you will not be interrupted, and make sure you have a strong internet connection.

TIP 5 – LISTEN AND CLARIFY

When questions are being asked, listen to the entire question before responding. If you are not sure of your answer, ask for clarification of the question. Whenever possible, provide specific examples rather than providing a general response.

Whenever possible, draw attention to your accomplishments and the impact they had on past employers. Ask yourself the question, “What did I do different, better, faster, more efficiently in my job than the person who had the job previous to me?”

TIP 6 – ASK THE BEST QUESTIONS

When you are being asked questions, the interviewer is in control of the process. When you ask questions, you are in control. Avoid asking self-serving questions and instead ask questions that reveal the priorities of the interviewer.

Some examples include:

• “Can you tell me what skills are most important to you, for this position?” (Obviously, you show them how you have those skills)
• “What will the top priority be for the person you hire?”
• “How do I compare with the candidates you have interviewed so far?”
• “If you could add one skill to your current department, what would that be?”

One of the best questions you can ask…

“Do I have the experience and skills you’re looking for in this position?

You then listen carefully to the response. If they say the word “but,” whatever follows that word could be a reason for them to screen you out! You need to overcome concerns if you want to be considered for the job. “I can totally understand why you have that concern, please let me explain how that will not be a problem…”

TIP 7 – TARGET DATE TO HIRE & NEXT STEP

To determine where the company is in the hiring process, ask the following questions:

• “What is your target date to hire someone for this position?”
• “Would you describe your interviewing process?”
• “When are you planning to set up second interviews?”
• “When should I follow up with you?”

Hiring authorities always react positively to someone with a high level of interest. When you ask for the target date and when you should follow up, you are displaying your interest and confidence.

After your interview follow up with a handwritten thank you note to everyone you met thanking them for their time, showing the confidence you have in your ability to do the job, and expressing a high level of interest in working for their company! You can initially send an email but, follow up with the thank you note you send by mail which is another differentiator.

View all future interviews as auditions, implement these seven tips, and you will continue to advance in your career.