Every employer is concerned about the risk of making a hiring mistake - especially at the senior level. So, how can you make them feel more comfortable that you really are the best candidate for the job? The key is giving them solid proof you can do the job. The easiest way is to give them direct access to other people's perspectives about your performance. That way, you'll easily stack the deck in your favor.
Here are 3 easy ways you can share other's perspectives about you:
#1 - Share Your Performance Appraisal
When you respond to specific interview questions about your achievements, share what others said about you by pulling out your performance appraisal and reading the relevant sections. And, if appropriate, leave a copy with them so they can read it for themselves. You can include a quote from a performance appraisal with your thank-you note too.
#2 - Ask A Contact To Make A Referral Call
Review your network and look for a direct contact who:
- knows the interviewer, either on a personal or professional basis; and
- who will give you a great referral (even if they aren't one of your formal references).
Ask them to call the interviewer to share their experience watching you get results and working with others. Just remember to brief them on the role and tell them exactly how your past accomplishments relate to the position. To maximize the impact, ask them if they can make the call a day or two after your interview.
#3 - Help Your References Give Relevant Information
Remember to help your references help you by:
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Giving them a brief overview of the position;
-
Sharing how your past accomplishments relate directly to this new position; and
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Sending them the detailed job description along with a copy of your resume.
That information will help them begin to see you in the new job and prepare them to respond to the interviewer's questions.
Using all 3 easy ways to stack the deck will help you move closer to landing the job you really want ... and deserve!
Heather
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