What an Interviewer Really Wants to Know

This is the real heart of the interview.

Your interviewer is looking for three things:

1. Can you do the job?
2. Do you fit in?
3. Can we afford you?

Can you do the job?

• Consider your strengths and past experiences and how they apply to the job you're interviewing for.
• Sell yourself and your abilities - give the interviewer examples of how they can expect you to perform, based on your previous experience.
• Display confidence in your capabilities, but never seem cocky.

Be prepared to answer two very important questions:

• why are you interested in this job?
• What are you looking for in your next position/company?

Your Search Consultants representative will coach you on these questions to help you strengthen your responses.

Do you fit in?

Rapport and chemistry are essential, you must display enthusiasm and desire for the job. Your Search Consultants representative will address issues of philosophy and work ethic and information on what personality traits your client is looking for so you can use this information in the interview.

Your representative will describe the personality of the company so you can tailor your presentation to fit that style, and be sure to highlight your most compatible characteristics.

Can we afford you?

Now for the final step. When the interviewer asks you what will it take or what are you looking for money-wise $$$, how will you respond?

Below are elements that will result in the best response,
one that works in 99% of all situations.

• Never mention a number - it will be either too high or too low, so most of time mentioning a salary figure that you want will work against you.
• Tell them what you are currently earning(or were last earning). If there are other factors involved in your compensation, include them also.

For example:

• I am up for a raise this month and an expecting a 6% increase.
• I receive a yearly bonus of $1500 in addition to any base salary.
• My company matches 6% on my 401K
• I also have a $300/month car allowance.
• My salary has been frozen for 2 years.

What you are doing is establishing a base line from which the company can begin to negotiate what salary they will offer you. It is important therefore, that they know all the components of you current compensation.

And finally, tell them you are interested in the job and confident of your ability to handle the job and if they will make you an appropriate offer you will give it serious consideration.

Here is a sample response:

"Mr. Employer, as you know I am currently earning $65,000 and I also receive a yearly bonus of 5-10%. The last several years it has average 8% and I expect it will be the same this year. I am very interested in this opportunity (and restate why at this point). I'm sure that you will find that I will do an excellent job for you. My background has prepared me well and this job in something I am very excited about...if you will make me your best offer, I will get back to you promptly with my decision and I could start approximately two weeks after I give you my acceptance."