The interview process can be a stressful one. Even with proper preparation, you will never be fully prepared for the mind of the hiring manager. To help ease some of the anxiety, here are a couple of thoughts that are more than likely running through the head of the hiring manager:
1. I didn’t read your résumé: Hiring managers may have skimmed through your résumé, and decided that they liked what they saw. However, between booking interviews with other candidates, meetings and other day-to-day tasks, they may not have been able to look at your résumé in full detail. This is part of the reason why it is essential to bring extra copies of your résumé with you to the interview. Make sure that you are familiar with every detail of your résumé so that you are prepared to explain to the hiring manager when required.
2. I’ve heard it Before: Some interview responses are common among job seekers (i.e. My biggest flaw is that I’m a perfectionist), and it tends to become monotonous to hiring managers. Try to make your interview memorable in a good way, and stay away from cliché interview answers.
3. How you dress is important to me: Your first impression is usually given off by what you wear, rather than what you say at a job interview. Give yourself a fighting chance by not looking like you just rolled out of bed 5 minutes before the meeting.
4. I will try to throw you off: Hiring managers may try to throw a curveball or two in your direction during the interview process. This action is not for the pure joy of watching you sweat it out; they want to see how you work under pressure. If you’re given an oddball question like “If you could have a superpower, what would it be,” don’t over think it. Answer the question while explaining you thought process.
5. I want to impress you: You’re not the only person in the interview room looking to get a nod of approval. The Hiring manager is working to convince you that working for them is a great move for your career. This is a great opportunity to ask questions of your own to get them to open up about themselves and their time at the company.