If you’ve made it to the final round in your interviews for a job that interests you, it means you’re legitimately very close to receiving an offer. You’ve already met the company’s basic requirements, having achieved this during round one. The purpose of this meeting is generally either to confirm your cultural fit with the organization or to compare you to another qualified finalist.
What can you do to seal the deal?
Sell and Be Sold
The final interview round is all about balance; balance between your strengths and your weaknesses, between answering and asking questions, and between your personality and your professionalism. And remember, like all interviews, it’s a two-way street. Your opportunity to sell yourself and also be sold; in other words, solidify your confidence that accepting this job would be the right move for you.
Studies have shown candidates who demonstrate a bit of narcissism, aka pride and confidence in themselves, end up being rated more favorably than more modest individuals. So, brag a little, but also know when to say when.
- Review previous interviews. Think about what you’re already discussed, in case your interviewers bring up the same topics. If you respond effectively, it shows your attention to detail and allows you to elaborate and improve upon anything you’ve said previously.
- Be aware of your weaknesses. Show you’re self-aware and conscious of areas where you need improvement. Emphasize concrete steps you’ve taken or are currently taking to address your skills gaps. This makes you sound confident, but not overconfident.
- Ask thoughtful questions. Picture yourself as part of this company’s team. What do you need to know to make sure that’s what you want and need? Of course, you can also use this knowledge to better prepare and present yourself for what will hopefully be your new role.
- Let your personality shine. If you’re hired, your interviewers today will likely be some of the same people you’ll be spending eight hours with every day. Smile, get to know them a little better, and be yourself. Build rapport with your future team members to help ensure that they will become just that.
- Never lose your professionalism. Don’t cross that fine line between having fun and becoming unprofessional. For instance, be ready on a moment’s notice to talk about the most serious aspects of your desired new job. Use an even voice as you discuss your experience and credentials. Read your interviewers, so you know when to be serious and when you can let up a bit. Showing you’d mesh seamlessly into their team could make the difference between hiring you – or your competition.
The experienced career counselors at PrideStaff Fresno can not only provide access to great jobs, but also work with you throughout your entire search process – from resume and interview preparation through networking, negotiating your offer, and transitioning into your new role. Contact us today to learn more.