In some ways, the time after the interview is scarier than the interview itself. When I leave an interview I always want to know what they thought of me; did I come across as confident, smart, friendly, annoying or inexperienced? Did I show them what they wanted to see? Was I myself? Will they even like the true me? Do they have a good sense of how I will work with the employees there? Will they call me back?
Ronnie Ann of the Work Coach Café made a great list of what employers are looking for in the interview. She says the overall impression is greater than the sum of its parts and gives great tips for making a good impression. Here are a few of the parts:
- Energy — Do you convey a positive physical energy as well as positive attitude?
- Body Language — Were you engaged, with eye contact, and a confident posture?
- Did you actually answer the questions asked?
- Do you seem like someone who would be enjoyable to work with?
- Flexibility — Are you open to new ideas and new processes?
- Stories — Did you give real world examples of things you’ve done?