Interviewing for an Entry-Level Position
Recently I applied for a position with a tech start up company based in Portland. I have no experience in their particular industry. However I love start ups and I want to move from my current job in customer service at a retail chain to a career track I think I would truly enjoy. This is an entry level position, but one I am afraid I will be battling with several hundred applicants if not more. Can you give me tips on how to have a successful interview?
In most situation, not just entry-level positions, by the time you get to the interview process everyone is qualified. The hiring manager reviews resumes, does a phone screen, and calls in people who seem qualified and likable. Since entry-level positions, by definition, require little skill, the idea that the likable person gets the job is even more significant; that’s the only way a company can judge candidates.
In general, being likable is not doing anything weird in the interview. Connect with the person you are talking to by mirroring them, and focusing on what is interesting to them. Also, if you find the interviewer interesting and likable, the person will probably reciprocate – it’s human nature.
Here are some posts I’ve written about this topic:
http://blog.penelopetrunk.com/2009/05/14/interview-well-by-knowing-whats-coming/
http://blog.penelopetrunk.com/2006/07/11/five-ways-to-do-better-in-a-job-interview/
http://blog.penelopetrunk.com/2006/09/21/forget-about-asking-yourself-if-youre-likeable/
Penelope