Did you know that one of the most common reasons candidates are unsuccessful at interviews is that they often fail to provide enough evidence of how they managed to add value at their last role.
When you are applying for a new job, it’s important to have a thorough read through the job advert and think about ways in which you can provide specific examples of how you have previously demonstrated success to match those listed attributes. This could be a problem you have solved, how you have taken initiative, or a successful campaign.
You may be a top performer at your current job, but you need to think about ways in which you can articulate your success at interview.
We’ve put together some useful tips to help you to prepare and hopefully to inspire you in ways in which you can speak about your achievements:
Think about how you have overcome challenges
Have you heard of the STAR technique? It stands for situation, task, action, result.
This method is a fantastic way to answer questions whilst highlighting your skills.
What was the situation/problem? How did you solve this problem/overcome this setback? What did you learn from this experience? How did you apply what you learned to your career?
Using numbers to your advantage
Before your interview, list ways in which you have managed increase revenue, or save time and money. Or even think about a new process you implemented and how that has resulted in saving time and therefore money. Have you won clients for your employer?
Tell them how you got the result and what your decision-making process was.
Unique Contribution
As well as ticking the job description boxes, also think about aspects of your role that only you have created.
Maybe you offer value beyond the job description that very few, if any, can offer. Communicate these aspects. They may be unique networks, special skills, work experience that may benefit the company.
Career Growth
Companies will be interested to hear your future plans and aspirations. If you plan to move from Account Manager to Account Director, how will you do this and how can this be done within the company you’re interviewing for? Think about any training they offer and how you plan to take advantage of this.
It’s true that today’s job market is candidate led and that companies are competing for the best talent. But the market is fierce and it’s so incredibly important that you show them everything you have to offer at interview.
Show your values. And, good luck!