The hiring manager’s tricks of the trade
When a hiring manager sits down to conduct a job interview, the things going through the interviewer's mind might surprise even the most experienced of job applicants.
Thanks to a series of surveys of administrative personnel this year, staffing service OfficeTeam has identified five things that hiring managers keep secret, and that can give well-prepared job seekers an edge when pursuing a position.
"Many job candidates may not recognize that hiring managers can be as anxious as they are during interviews because of the pressure to find just the right person," said Robert Hosking, executive director of OfficeTeam.
"Hiring mistakes are costly, in terms of the time and money invested and the toll on staff morale. Interviewers are looking for subtle clues the applicant has the right job skills and work ethic, and will fit in with new colleagues and the corporate culture," he said.
"Job seekers who do their homework and remain poised throughout the interview process," he advises, "will be able to engage in more productive, relevant conversations with prospective employers.
Here's a peek at the things most hiring manages may be thinking about during the interview, but won't let on to the applicant:
THEY AREN'T PREPARED
You may have spent hours creating your résumé, but there's a good chance the hiring manager doesn't remember exactly what's on it.
What to do: Always have an extra copy of your résumé handy, and offer to walk the potential employer through the highlights, particularly if he or she seems at a loss for questions.
THEY LIKE TO TALK ABOUT THEMSELVES
Managers who are responsible for hirings are advised to let the candidate do most of the talking. But interviewers are only human: They enjoy discussing things they are passionate about, including their careers and interests.
What to do: Ask the interviewer about his or her professional advancement within the company; this can yield valuable information about the growth potential at the organization and get the conversation going. You don't have to wait until the end of the interview to ask questions.
THEY MAY TRY TO MAKE YOU UNCOMFORTABLE
Job applicants often rush to fill in awkward pauses between interview questions. Hiring managers hope that if they keep you talking, you'll reveal more about yourself. They also may throw curveball questions to see how you react and to gain insight into your thought process.
What to do: Rather than rambling on and saying something you might regret, keep your responses concise and on point. It's okay to stop and collect your ideas before you begin to speak. Don't be too concerned if you're stumped by a tough question; showing your reasoning skills is often more important than finding the right answer.
THEY ASK THEIR ASSISTANT ABOUT YOU
Nearly seven in 10 (69 per cent) of executives surveyed by OfficeTeam said they consider their assistant's opinions important when evaluating new hires. It should go without saying, but make sure you are respectful of everyone you meet when you arrive for an interview. You never know who may be weighing in on the hiring decision.
What to do: If the administrative assistant isn't busy, make polite small talk while you wait for your interview. And avoid irritating behaviour, such as holding a loud cellphone conversation.
THEY ARE WARY OF PHONIES
Think carefully before you claim that your greatest weakness is that you "work too hard." Most hiring managers have heard it all before. Inauthentic responses are a red flag to employers.
What to do: Go to the interview with several job-related anecdotes in mind that reveal the real you and speak to how your specific talents can help the business. Don't be afraid to show your real personality.