The unemployment rate is high these days — especially for African Americans, who lead the nation in joblessness. With that, seeking employment is already tough work, and when you do get the call or e-mail to come in for a job interview, being well prepared to answer some important questions will prove vital in the decision making process.
Research shows that business executives make approximately 11 decisions about a candidate within seven minutes or less of their initial meeting. So, black job seekers need to know how to make the most of their first 10 minutes with a decision maker, in order to get a nose out in front in today’s competitive market.
The first three minutes may be lost in small talk about the weather, traffic, etc. The real interview begins with knowing three important things:
Remember why you are there — to interview (Tell me about yourself): Too many job seekers get stumped on this very consistent and important question. Here the decision maker wants to know about your skills, talents, gifts and accomplishments as they relate to your career/profession. Do not start rambling about the town you grew up in and where you spent your last vacation. Your answer should illustrate how the traits you possess can be utilized at this company to help solve a problem. Always keep in mind that companies are looking for problem solvers, not just people to do tasks.
Know the company (What do you know about us?): Have you done the necessary research on the company, its products/services, customers/clients, competitors, annual report and trends in the industry? What problems need to be addressed? Even if you are not applying for a senior level position, having knowledge about the company you wish to work for will benefit you during the interview. If you want to work for the Gap as a sales associate, it helps to know that they were featured in certain magazines that month. It’s also good to know what some of their bestsellers are.
Know your role (What can you do for us?): The interview is your platform to inform the decision maker about the vital role you can play in the organization. Your mission should you chose to accept it, is to give the performance of your life to convince the decision maker you are the right person for the job. Don’t overdo it and make promises you can’t keep. Do leave a lasting impression with the decision maker that if they hire you, you will do your very best to positively impact the company’s productivity and success.
Basically, it all goes back to why are you here and what can you fix or solve for the organization. Relate all of this to the company’s needs and close by stating how you can be of service. –audrey b. legrand
Audrey B LeGrand is an HR consultant with more than 25 years of experience in career development and corporate training. She is the author of How to Get Out of Job Jail: Eight Ways to Have the Career You’ve Alway Wanted
