Congratulations! You've made it to the interview stage! It's an opportunity that could catapult your career to new heights. But, just like your first month in a new job, the interview process is equally crucial and can be a make-or-break moment. To ensure you make the best impression possible, let's dive into some common interview mistakes you might unknowingly be making.
Failing to Craft Your Interview Story:
Much like your elevator pitch, your interview story should be well-prepared and captivating. It's not just about listing your accomplishments; it's about conveying your passion for marketing and your unique journey. Explain why you are drawn to the role and what drives your enthusiasm for the industry. A compelling narrative can leave a lasting impression on your interviewers. First impressions are everything!
Ignoring the Company's Expectations:
In the interview process, understanding what the company expects from you is as vital as understanding your role in a new job. Take the time to research and ask questions about the organisation's goals, culture, and vision. Show how your expertise aligns with their needs and objectives. This demonstrates your commitment to the company's success.
Forgetting to Share Your "Why":
Don't limit your interview to merely discussing your qualifications. Go beyond the bullet points on your resume and talk about why you are passionate about the field and why you specifically want to work for this company. Share your "why," and it will set you apart from other candidates by demonstrating your genuine interest.
Many people going into an interview feel that they need to play a role, or put on a performance to be the person they think the interviewer is looking for. But this only creates a false chemistry and lands the candidate in a job which may not be the right fit for them. So share your why and be authentic. We go into more depth around this topic in a previous post that you can read here.
Avoiding Questions:
Much like the workplace where asking questions is a sign of a curious mind, in interviews, not asking questions can be detrimental. It's a missed opportunity to show your interest and engagement. Prepare insightful questions about the company's challenges, goals, and expectations. This demonstrates that you're thinking beyond the job description.
Not Researching the Interview Panel:
Just as you should know your team in a new job, research your interview panel. Understand their roles, backgrounds, and contributions to the company. This knowledge can help you tailor your responses to resonate with their perspectives.
Neglecting Company Culture:
Take the time to familiarise yourself with the company's culture before the interview. Research their values, mission, and long-term goals. Incorporate these elements into your interview responses to show that you're not just a qualified candidate, but also a cultural fit.
Overlooking the Customer Perspective:
Regardless of your role, understanding the company's clients is crucial. Demonstrate your customer-centric mindset by discussing your awareness of their needs and expectations. Connect your expertise to how it can benefit the customer experience.
Not Adapting to Interview Tools:
In the digital age, interviews often involve technology like video conferencing or assessment platforms. Be sure to familiarise yourself with these tools beforehand. Technical hiccups can be distracting and detract from your message. Set up a good amount of time before so that you can test the software and make sure you’re comfortable.
Ignoring the Interviewer's Evaluation Criteria:
Finally, just as you should clarify performance metrics in your new job, understand how the interviewers will evaluate your performance. If you're uncertain about their criteria, don't hesitate to ask. Knowing what they're looking for can help you tailor your responses to meet their expectations and don’t forget to demonstrate your value. We put together a blog post around this topic which you can read here.
In the world of B2B marketing, acing the interview is your ticket to success. Avoiding these common interview mistakes can help you make a strong impression and secure that coveted position. Remember, preparation and a genuine passion for the role and company can go a long way in setting you apart from the competition.
If you need a little more guidance, we have a section on our site that covers various interview tips and skills which you can read just here.
Best of luck in your upcoming interviews and if you need a one-to-one chat or some interview advice then as always just give me a shout.
If you want to find out how we can help you find your next marketing role, or if you are looking to hire new talent, please arrange a call here or email: jo.wassell@invokerecruitment.com