Interview Check List #18: Did I make sure the employer was clear about how I felt about the company and the job?

One candidate for an administrative job tells the story of how he obtained many interviews yet never got the job offered to him.  Company after company turned him down.  After going through coaching and some role-play interviewing, the problem was clear:  He was coming across as hostile.

For example, when asked about his hobbies, his answer was, “What do you want to know that for?”  Instead of treating the employer in the interview as a business prospect, he was treating him as a stranger who was coming on too strong.  As soon as he realized what he was doing, he was able to stop, and went on to land a good job. 

If you suspect you’ve done this, it will certainly come across as if you don’t like the employer.  Negative comments about management or “rich company presidents” will go over like a lead balloon!  No employer wants to hire someone “with an attitude.”  So next time, be more aware that even when the interviewer asks what seems like an odd question, answer it in a professional yet friendly manner.  Save your editorial comments for when you know people better!

Jane Roqueplot  www.janecos.com