How to score high in a job interview
100These 10 tips can get you hired!
You can increase your score by using these strategies
Ever wonder what in the heck hiring managers do when they look down and take notes while you're in an interview? Sure, some of it might be doodles. But those sheets they're marking hold the key to whether or not you'll be a finalist, or better yet, get an offer.
The list of questions managers refer to during interviews generally includes a scoring section. Each question has a value, and often the potential score for a question will be weighted based on the importance of the question to the position. For example, you might get only five points for having basic computer skills, but you might garner 30 points for having solid experience in a specific area of the job description.
The score breaks down even further within each question. If I ask a prospective employee a 20-point question about her experience in a certain area (pick an area, it doesn't matter) the score might allow five points for basic similar experience, five more for extensive experience, another five if she answered the question specifically and accurately, and another five for giving a specific example of that work.
Here's the score on how to win the interview game:
Tip # 1: Understand the playing field & ground rules. First, some basics about what happens before you even get to the interview. In today's hyper-competitive workplace, many firms get hundreds of applicants for every posting. At that rate, managers start looking for reasons not to interview an applicant rather than reasons to interview them. Before interviews are scheduled, many companies assign scores to applications during the screening process (more on that in an upcoming post). If you've gotten an interview, congratulations! You're at least halfway there and you have a shot at the job!
Tip # 2: Understand where managers come from. Managers hate to interview. Hate it, hate it, hate it. Why? It's like one big, long blind date. Sure, just like on a blind date, they secretly hope, "This is the one!" But as with blind dates, many applicants are not 'the one' for the job. In recent years, a big reason managers hate to interview is that with group interviews (when more than one person conducts the interview), it's extremely hard to get the same two, three, four or more people together for a series of candidates. The scheduling process alone is a nightmare.
Tip # 3: Pay attention! Be sure to address the question in your answer. Seriously, many applicants just plain don't listen to the question, or they're busy trying to weave in details that aren't related to what they were asked. There's a reason behind each question, and part of the score includes points for actually responding to what you were asked. Listen carefully to the question, ask the interviewer to repeat it if you're uncertain, and then give an answer that reflects the question.
If you don't have exactly the same type of experience the question refers to, use a segue phrase and give an example that closely relates to the skills underlying the intent of the question. Suppose you interview for a sales position in a high-tech firm, but your sales background is in machinery. The interviewer already knows this, but has to stick to a preset list of questions. When a question goes outside of your experience in some way, bring it back into your experience through examples of similar skills.
For instance, you may be asked how you satisfied a customer with some specific technical requirements (for that high-tech sales job, which you know you can do, even though your background is in heavy equipment). Your answer could be, "I know how important it is for your sales representatives to understand and address specific technical requirements of your customers. I've worked with many corporate clients who had very detailed requirements for the equipment we sold, and I was always able to identify and meet their needs." Then give a specific example about how you did this. Through this answer, you've shown the interviewer that you understand the question, you recognize the importance of it, and you have the talent to translate your background into the setting for the position at hand.
Tip # 4: Give examples. Always give specific examples about what you've done. This tip alone can mean the difference between a mediocre interview score and landing a spot on the 'top three candidate' list. Managers (good ones, with solid training, that is) are actually schooled to ask questions that elicit examples of how candidates have performed jobs. Sometimes managers will try to cue you that they need a real example, not a hypothetical idea of what you would do in a certain circumstance. If you hear questions such as "Tell about a time that you . . . " or "Give an example of a workplace situation where you did so & so," it's your signal to tell about a real situation in your career that answers the question.
If the hiring manager repeats the same question, that means you didn't answer some element of the question, or you failed to give a real example. It's actually a good sign when you're asked a question again - it may mean the hiring team has clicked with you and they want to give you a good chance at the job. Otherwise, believe me, they will simply smile and go on to the next question, and you'll never know you didn't make the mark.
Tip # 5: Be prepared for traps and trick questions. "What's your worst fault?" or similar questions are huge traps for the unsuspecting. The nature of the question can be varied, so plan ahead to have a few answers in mind. You might be asked questions such as, "What did you least like about your previous job?" or "Tell about a time you didn't succeed at something." Answer the question (don't try to divert), but try to turn the answer into a success story. If you learned something the hard way, use that challenge to your advantage and you may earn points for candor and for showing how you've grown.
Tip # 6: Smile!!! Do it again - it looks good on you! Look in their eyes and, whenever possible, smile with confidence. Candidates don't realize that in the aftermath of an interview, the team will comment to each other about things not discussed through the questions. You want them to say, "I really liked her smile - she was friendly and confident," rather than, "He wouldn't even look at us when we asked the questions!"
Tip # 7: Don't fidget! And don't scratch, slouch or otherwise look unprofessional. I interviewed one candidate who leaned back in the swivel chair we provided and swung back and forth during the entire interview, repeatedly clicking a ballpoint pen the whole time. His actions were distracting and annoying and his scores reflected it.
Tip # 8: Be brief. But be on point. Don't give long answers when concise answers will do. Overly long answers work to your disadvantage and cause interviewers to tune out, which means they will not remember well enough to score you accurately. Remember, managers hate to interview. Don't be one of the reasons they feel that way!
Tip # 9: Do your homework. Research the organization or corporation and phrase your answers in the context of the firm. Look for news articles or reports about what the company has done, where it's headed and any challenges it faces. Weave that knowledge into your answers and tie in any experience that relates to what they've got in the hopper. The hiring team will be impressed that you took the time to come prepared.
Tip # 10: Ask smart questions. At the end of the interview, you'll probably be asked if you have questions (if not, simply mention you have a few questions). Show them you're interested in their firm and you want to know more about it. Mention what you learned about the firm before you interviewed. Ask about the culture of the company. Do not mention salary!
What happens later? Managers tally their scores individually and then compare their scores with each other. Sometimes scores are tweaked a bit at that stage if one of the interviewers interpreted a question differently than it was intended. Usually, the scores of one or two people will stand out among the others. This is a hugely helpful tool for managers who need to narrow the search to one or two final candidates. You want to be in that group, so study the list above, practice your interview technique and increase your score!
A few more tips for getting a job
- What job interviewers say behind closed doors
Want a sneak peek at what goes on after you leave a job interview? Here are real examples of what hiring managers have to say. - How to get the job offer you want
Learn these important tips on how to avoid the slush pile, how to improve your resume and how to prepare for job interviews. - How to Work Your Professional Network
Networking is the key ingredient to landing a job. These important tips will help you create and develop your professional network. - How to survive a Panel Interview
Don't let the idea of a panel interview scare you away. You can use this opportunity to shine in more ways than one. Here's how to wow them!
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Hello Marcy, thank you for the great insight on interviews, I believe I will be having a few in the near future. I have been at the same job for 25 years and I'm pretty much lost at this point. I'm making a career change and it's a bit daunting, this article is exactly what I needed :)
When I went to interview for my previous jobs, I always found it helpful to know that I'm interviewing them vs getting interviewed. It made me feel more confident. :)
*interviews
Thanks for stopping by and commenting, Robotmonster! I really like your idea of reversing the paradigm; I can see where it would put the candidate at ease more than usual way we approach interviews. Great suggestion!
This hub will be incredibly useful to me...you have no idea! Thank you for being so detailed with your information too! Awsome...voted up!
Thanks! Iamaudraleigh! I hope the tips get you some results!
This has really been helpful to me. Being a college student I've always been worried about what to do during an interview and these tips actually make me a little relieved.
Hi, CrescentSkies - Let us know how you handle the next one - I hope these tips work. Also, the hub about what interviewers say behind closed doors has additional tips.
Loved the tips, Marcy.
With such a brilliant hub, anybody can beat a recession ;)
voted up and sharing!
Hi, Ruchira - thank you for reading and commenting! I hope some of the tips are helpful to you!
I would much prefer a panel interview than a phone interview. A person's facial expression reveal a lot more than you are privvy to over the phone. Great tips!
That's a very good point, lifelovemystery; when you see responses visually, you can adapt to them. Thanks for your insightful comment!
This was great, thanks for compiling your hub so neatly. One of my interviews recently my interviewer was circling numbers (scoring me) so strangely. My first question I answered averagely good and saw he circled a 3. So I beefed it up and gave a killer answer next and got a 4. By seeing what I was getting scored it helped me I guess but irked me too. I'm like screaming inside and thinking that I was giving great answers. Didn't help though that he wanted short answers, if I tried to give an example he was already on to the next question. Great hub though and I'll revert back to it from time to time!
Hi, Emily - Yes, the scoring sheet can make you crazy during an interview! And of course, we don't ever know what the backroom agenda is of the hiring team. Good luck on your next interview! And thank you for reading and commenting.
I agree strongly with #9. While asking my family friends what to do while interviewing, many in competitive industries have said that you should know as much as possible about the company! In fact, read their annual reports, read news about the company, research the industry. Be able to drop a few specific numbers and names in your interview, concerning management and financial progress. It proves you want the job.
Thanks for all those very good tips! It is difficult to make a good impression and we only have one chance to get that desired job. It is so much to think about and I have found that it goes better with a bit preparation. I will bookmark this one, in case I need to apply for another job! voted up, interesting, useful, thanks for sharing,
Tina
This is a very good article for all ages. In fact getting through the interview is a very tough job than to work. Nice presentation and also gives us the knowledge where to concentrate.
Hi Marcy Goodfleisch,
Thanks for sharing good tips to perform on interview ... I am planning to have few of those in next 2 months or so ... quite frustrated with my present company...
Keep the good work up .... vote up from me ...
Hi, Tina - well, I hope you don't need to use these anytime too soon! Thank you for reading and commenting!
Hi, Mightlylearning - I'm glad you found the hub helpful. Thank you for your comments here!
Hi, Java Programs - I see you're new to HubPages; welcome to the site! I hope you're able to find something you like very soon; it looks like you have great experience to offer. Thanks for your comments, and best of luck with your search!
You were reading my mind, Marcy. As my office enters a third hiring phase in the last year I see many people hurt themselves in the interview. Each of your tips is salient. I hired a new employee Friday and she cemented the deal with Tip #4: Give Examples. I already was interested in hiring her when she gave a short example from a previous job. I called her this morning (Monday) and offered her the job. She starts tomorrow (Tuesday.)
Anyone heading to an interview should read this hub several times. Make the tips second nature. If you do, you will land your dream job in no time.
Thanks for the great feedback, Keith - I can tell you are speaking as an expert in the hiring process. I've had similar experiences to what you mentioned; good candidates were screened out because despite even being asked several times for examples, they weren't able to give us the answers we needed. I appreciate your comments, and my congratulations to you and your new employee - it sounds like you're both going to win!
Thanks for all the useful tips Marcy. I'll pay it forward to my friend who is currently in between jobs. It would also be a good topic to include on my new "how to" website. Have a look if you have time: http://www.howtop10.com
Really useful, teaches a lot. Good job!
Hi, Wiserworld - I'm glad you like the hub, and I hope your friend gets some benefit from it (you are a good person, to help your friend at such a time). Feel free to link to the hub from your site if you wish!
Thanks, Nare - I hope these tips come in handy someday!
This was truly informative and succinct. Great advice. You've put a lot of essential tips within this hub.
Thank you, PegCole - I very much appreciate your reading and commenting!
Hi it's really good article for young generation and good information about job interview .
Thank you - I'm glad you liked the hub! I think these tips work for older generations, too. Especially the points about giving specific examples of related accomplishments. When someone with ten years of career experience interviews, they need to make the panel aware of what they've done. Thanks for commenting!
These are essential! I love to try to do these with the clients that I have come across. Having some of those essential little things can make a world of difference depending on how you approach their needs.
Thanks, Mikey - I appreciate your comments. It looks like you have good experience in this area!
Just a little.
These tips are excellent, especially the one about "don't discuss salary" and "Pay attention". I've employed many people over the years and am surprised how many people bring salary up very soon in an interview. Show an interest in the company first, salary will be discussed and negotiated later. By paying attention to the questions you will show your interest in the company, which certainly helps in getting you the job, or at least, a second interview.
Well written and concise hub, deserving of a 99 score, well done Marcy.
Thank you, MPG - I have seen the type of interviewee you mention. They don't realize that their attitude of 'What's in it for me?' is very transparent and a major turn-off. Thanks for reading and commenting!
awesome post.
Thanks, Shama! I hope you ace your next interview!
Outstanding read, I just passed this onto a friend who was going to face an interview. And he really bought me lunch because he had done very good their, and he had also told me to thank you from his side.
What great news, atiagr! I'm so happy this was helpful for him! Thanks for sharing the good news, and thank you for passing the hub along to your friend.
Voted up and with a lot of thanks! I've been working for myself for a while, and I need to brush up on my interviewing skills soooo badly! I'll practice interviewing with your suggestions in mind. Thanks again!
Hi, Cookies! I'm so glad the hub is timely information for you! Best of luck on your job search - I will be thinking of you. Thanks for reading and commenting!
As I'm currently gearing up for inerviews, this came in quite handy! Thanks
Fantastic Stuff, Discovered new things which I never bothered during interview. Thanks!!
Hi, Madmachio - I'm so glad you found the hub helpful! Hope you ace those interviews - I will have my fingers crossed for you!
Hi, birdslover - thanks for your comment; I'm so glad you found the hub hrlpful.
Marcy, Thanks for the great article. It was so well written and thought provoking.
Lisa
Thanks, Lisa - I appreciate your comments! I hope they're helpful if you are headed to an interview sometime soon.
Good information and advise, I enjoyed reading your article.
Thank you, Jobs Etc - I can tell by your username that you must have a career related to employment. I'm so glad you found the hub helpful, and I appreciate your comments.
I agree with all of your tips, Marcy! Having interviewed many people in the past, it is most important that the candidate also comes over as a human being with a good (not over the top) sense of humour, dedication and empathy to others - and, of course, enthusiasm.
Not that I'm involved any more! I retired last summer!!
Ian.
Hi, Ian - thanks for reading and commenting, and for sharing your insight; those are good points! And congratulations on your retirement - doesn't it feel great?!!
Job interviewing is very taxing. I did that for about seven months straight right after college. Very obnoxious but if you have these great tips you'll definitely succeed!
Yesssssssssssssssssssss!
The best thing I ever did - even though I loved my job!
Ian.
Hi, Leros - yes, interviewing is exhausting in every way. It can also be a strengthening experience through helping you see where to improve or market yourself with a bit more aggressiveness, and it can build self esteem. Every job interview is a sign you are qualified and competitive. Thanks so much for reading and commenting!
Great hub Marcy. Additionally (even though this falls under pre-interview), write as short a resume as possible. In today's world of texting and short sentences, the last thing any manager wants to do is review a 3-4 page resume. I fixed my friends' resume to 1 page and he got a few job offers right away - he had a 3 page resume with long paragraphs, etc.
Voted up and thanks for the great tip
John
Hi, John - thanks for making the point about brief resumes, and for having concise statements on them. Applicants have just a few seconds to grab a manager's attention with a resume, so the top real estate on the page is valuable. Many thanks for reading and commenting!
It helps me a lot. This tips are excellent. it made me more confident on my upcoming interviews.
Hi, David - thanks for your comments - and best of luck on your interviews! Be sure to have some good examples of what you've done to inject in your answers!
Hello Marcy,
I appreciate your article very much because I am unemployed right now and trying to find another job. Last Friday I had an interview with a very nice lady who tried hard to make me feel comfortable. I finally did, but I was nervous at first and I thought to myself, I wonder if it shows that I'm nervous.
She told me she was interviewing a lot of people and would only call me if she decides to hire me, so not to worry if I don't get a call. I have had only about four interviews since last August, when I began seeking another job. I was fired from my job while out on a State Disability leave for my knee injury, and so after my release from the disability, I opened an unemployment claim, and am now at the last week of the first extension.
Your tips and examples of questions are very helpful, thanks so much.
I have voted this up!
Helen
Hi, Helen - I'm sorry you're going through the stress of job hunting; it is a tiring and scary process. Try to devote time each day to your search, and start calling your network of friends and colleagues to let them know you're open to opportunities. Even if they're not in your career field, they may know someone who is. I've written several hubs about interviewing, networking and other skills for job hunting. Maybe you can find tips in those, too.
Thanks so much for reading and commenting, and good luck!
Thanks so much for your encouragement Marcy!
Take care,
Helen
Let us know how it goes, oceansider!
Nice hub Marcy. I too have written a hub on the same topic. Check it out if you are interested.
LOVE this hub! I was a recruiter for a Zoo for a few years, and I can say that you are spot on with all of these. Great job!
Thanks for some great tips Marcy. I think it is easy to forget that interviews are hard for the interviewers too - realising that helped me feel more comfortable in interviews.
Wow, these tips are really helpful and useful. I hope that you can post some more hubs. Keep up your good work.
Hi, taw2012 - I will indeed check out your hub! There's no end to the tips and guidelines people can use when looking for work; I'm so glad to know there's plenty of information on this site! Thanks so much for reading and commenting.
Glad to read this hub. Just timely for me who's applying for jobs right now. Hmm interesting and informative. Thanks for the helpful tips! :)
@Amy Gillie: Thanks so much for your experienced feedback! I think it's helpful for people to see both sides of the interview process.
@jasmith1: I'm so glad you like the hub, and I hope you can just relax and be yourself the next time you interview! That's always the winning way to go!
@Grace: Hi, Grace - thank you so much for your kind words! I do have several other hubs on interviewing and employment tips; I hope those have been helpful as well.
@Penflame: I'm so glad this hub is timely for you! I will keep my fingers crossed that you find the job you want! Thanks for reading and commenting.
Nice, succinct, useful tips, Marcy - you're hired! Seriously, nicely done.
G
Good and simple step to get success in interview. Thanks for sharing. cheers!
Great hub! The information you posted here are really useful! Thank you!
Great tips! These tips will surely help a lot of people who are preparing for a job interview. Thank you for sharing helpful article.
Brilliant hub Marcy.I think I am too late to read this hub. I am tensed before attending an interview.
Fantastic! Thanks, Gerg - when do I start? ;)
I will be thinking of you, anusujith - you can do it! Best of luck on the interview. Remember, solid examples of what you've done really help get their attention!
I'm so glad you like the hub, am301986 - I hope the tips are helpful for you, and I appreciate your comments!
Hi, Andrewcrter - I appreciate your kind thoughts! Thanks for stopping by and commenting!
Many thanks for reading and commenting, Lioneeladams! So glad you found it useful.
Thanks for the information. I found tips #5, 8 and 9 most useful. Thumbs up!
Thanks for the feedback, TotalHealth - hope the tips are helpful the next time you are interviewing!
Wonderful Hub! Could of used this information weeks ago to my advantage. However, thank you for all the information.
Voted you up and A for Awesome! I am retired now. Where were you 20 years ago. Great Hub. Thnks.
Hi, Brandy! I hope you're able to put these ideas to use the next time you interview for a position. Many thanks for reading and commenting!
Thanks so much, Onlinereputations - I like the career you have now, but I hope you can use these tips if you end up interviewing again someday. Thanks for stopping by!
Excellent Hub. Very helpful. Although, I think I am in my retirement job and not planning to interview again...still if I were I would study and learn from your Hub.
Hi, Phdast - I appreciate your comments here! I feel the same way about retirement (our collective dream), but you're right about the need to be prepared! Thank you for stopping by, reading, and sharing your thoughts!
To Marcy: This is so on target however many people do not follow these principles, especially the one regarding being knowledgeable about the company you intend to work for. That is extremely important. If an interviewee knows about the company, it indicates that she is interested and knowledgeable. Conversely, it reflects quite negatively upon the interviewee if he/she knows little to nothing about the company. Excellent piece as usual, Marcy, voted up!
Hi, Gmwilliams - it sounds like you've had some experience with interviewing people; you are so right about how a lack of knowledge about a company can reflect negatively on an applicant. With the wealth of information we have on the Internet, there are few excuses for not being prepared on that topic!
Thanks so much for reading and commenting!
Nothing else to do except vote up! Really great hub!
Hi, Eric - so glad you liked the hub; many thanks for reading and voting!
One thing many don't do in their interviews is to ask smart questions. Thanks for sharing the tips.
Hi, Pandula - I agree; so many candidates act stumped when the interview panel asks if they have any questions. It's smart to go in with a short list of prepared questions and to research the firn so you can ask about issues or programs related to the company.
G60dundee 4 months ago
Excellent article. I can recall a few interviews where I have definitely fallen short on points 9 and 10, largely arising from the mistaken belief that my CV spoke for itself in terms of my experience and ability. I've come to realise that the interview process itself is crucial because only then is the real person, with all their qualities and faults, fully revealed!