A final job interview is just that: your last chance to impress a hiring manager and/or members of a search committee before they select the candidate they want to hire. The field has been narrowed to its last point: there are only a small number of contenders left, and congratulations because, you’re one of them. But you can’t rest on your laurels just yet … not if you want to emerge the winner.
Be sure to strike the right balance between confidence and humility, acting comfortably and letting your guard down. Here’s how to approach this critical meeting – and what to avoid saying – with the right degree of professionalism and savvy:
Reflect
Before going into your interview, reflect carefully and thoughtfully on what it would be like to work in this particular job. What questions do you have now or might you have on your first day? At this point, be sure to do this – for your own good and also to demonstrate that you’ve thoroughly considered the possibility.
What NOT to Say
Just as you did in your first and any subsequent interviews, prepare your responses, as well as your own questions, in advance. This might include reframing any answers you may want to modify from a previous conversation.
Here are a few questions and statements that are important to avoid:
- “Do people like working here?” Instead, ask more specific questions about company culture and team morale. Above all else, be specific and direct. You may want to avoid this one altogether. It is important information to have, but as part of your research, try talking with current or former employees instead. This will also provide you with a more credible, no-holds-barred answer.
- “I really can’t imagine anyone more qualified for the job than me.” What, now?! There’s no place for boasting or self-aggrandizing when interviewing, regardless of how confident you may feel at any given time. Focus on what would make you most unique and value added if you were hired and talk about that instead. Master the art of subtle comparison, while remaining professional and humble. This combination can speak volumes in your favor.
- “My last boss was horrible.” Just no. Bad mouthing your former employer can hurt you on two levels. First, it shows your lack of ability to cope and move past a difficult situation. Second, your potential employer does not want to hire anyone who may potentially speak negatively about them in the future. When you discuss past challenges in your career, do so objectively and critically, but do not
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