Monday, May 18, 2009

Preparing for the big interview

The Pre-Interview Checklist
Copies of your resume and cover letter: Check
Conducted research on the company: Check
Read and reread the job description: Check
Address and directions printed out: Check
Letter of recommendation just in case they ask: Check
Questions you have prepared for the interviewer: Check
Reasons the company should hire you planned out: Check
Clothing pressed and looking good: Check
High level of self-awareness: ???
Solid understanding of your leadership style: ???

Today companies want to know more about a candidate, especially at the senior level, then what they can find on your resume or background check. They're looking at more then your experience, they're paying special attention to the "soft skills."

"Today, the more senior the position, the more crucial "soft skills" are. Thus, there will be a high degree of probing throughout the evaluation process to gauge your emotional intelligence and social styles -- characteristics that help distinguish a good manager from a true leader," says Tierney Remick in an article from the Wall Street Journal.

If asked about how your leadership style has positively impacted your past organizations, what would you say?

What is your "leadership style?"

What is your greatest strength as a leader....not a manager?

Do you understand how your Emotional Intelligence can show through in an interview?

Do you even know what Emotional Intelligence is?

If you cannot answer all of the questions, right away, without pausing to think then maybe you should consider preparing for that big interview with a professional. Someone who can help you identify and clearly communicate your leadership style, your greatest strengths as a leader, and how your soft skills can distinguish you from everyone else.

We are not only experts in leadership and emotional intelligence, but we help many companies create the same behavioral interview techniques and questions that you will be faced with in your interview. If you really want the job and you're willing to go the extra mile to ensure you get it, we can help. Contact us to find out how!

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