Interviews don’t always go as planned. Sometimes you can’t seem to put your best foot forward. Perhaps you’re nervous or the interviewer has other things on their mind. But, even if it’s not going to plan, there are ways to turn the experience to your advantage.
We asked recruitment consultancy Robert Half for some tips to get your interview back on track if you find yourself in any of these common situations:
“Take note mentally of the issues surrounding the person being spoken about and provide examples where you have behaved differently.” You may also want to ask some questions of your own about what a successful employee looks like and the company culture.
“This isn’t uncommon. Ask the interviewer a question about themselves or the organisation such as ‘what is it about this organisation that keeps you here?’.” This can re-engage the interviewer very quickly.”
“Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you’re unsure of a question that is being asked, or if you’re trying to buy yourself more time. However, don’t feel embarrassed to say you don’t know either.”
“Sometimes questions can be misinterpreted or the meaning may not be clear. If unsure, ask the interviewer ‘does this answer your question?’.”
Sometimes questions can be misinterpreted or the meaning may not be clear. If unsure, ask the interviewer ‘does this answer your question?
“Take this opportunity to ask permission to send a follow up email. This opens up the dialogue between you and the potential employer and creates an opportunity to thank the interviewer for their time.”
Sometimes an interview that's not going well can save you from taking the wrong job.
If, however, in your heart of hearts, you want this role, follow up with an email covering everything you wanted to say in the interview but didn’t. The follow up letter is a very powerful job hunting technique.