You’re invited for an initial face-to-face job interview. Congratulations!
“When can you come in?” asks the hiring manager. Does your answer really matter?
There’s a lot of debate surrounding the interview process and whether it’s better to be first or last. Some will argue it’s best to be first so you can “set the bar,” while others say it’s best to be toward the end so you will remain fresh in the minds of interviewers.
But at GetFive, we believe you can successfully land a job no matter where you fall in the line of interviews. Here are some tips to help you nail your interview whether you’re first or last on the schedule:
If you’re among the first to be interviewed
If you sense you’re one of the first candidates to be interviewed, you can use this to your advantage. Not only will you have the chance to set the bar high, but you can also continue to follow up after the initial interview is over.
After your interview, instead of calling to see how the process is going, use that time to further influence the interviewer’s thinking. Bring up issues you didn’t address during the interview and ask thoughtful follow-up questions so you’ll remain top of mind.
If you’re among the last to be interviewed
Being the last to be interviewed doesn’t guarantee you’ll get the job. You still have to use your interviewing skills to show the hiring manager why you’re the right one for the position.
When you’re one of the last candidates, you get the opportunity to ask how you measure up to the competition. Most job hunters only think about themselves and the hiring manager. Ask questions like, “How do you see my skills measuring up to the competition?” or “Do you have any initial reservations about hiring me?”
It doesn’t matter if you’re first or last. What matters is your preparation. Addressing the hiring manager’s needs, coming up with a solution to their problems, showing interest and displaying competence will lead to interview success.
Want more job interview tips? GetFive and our certified coaches can help! Learn more!
