When I am preparing candidates for interviews, I always remind them, there are three things you need to make sure you bring to every interview, ICE!
ICE Stands for:
I – Interest
C – Confidence
E – Enthusiasm
Interest:
Do your homework
The interview starts before you get on the phone, turn on your camera, or walk in the door. Know the company. Don’t just focus on their website. Make sure you take a look at their social profiles and if they are a public company the financial statements provide a lot more than just numbers. It will give you not only insight into their mission and future goals but plans for the company in the coming year. Prepare questions to ask. It is not just about the company, remember to show interest in the company, the job, and the person you are speaking with. A company does not make offers to a candidate that isn’t interested. One of the worst things you can do in an interview is say, “I have no questions”. Even if they answer all the questions you have prepared, ask the interview why they like working there? What is the most challenging thing they found when joining the company? What keeps them there? There are always questions to ask
Confidence:
Be confident
When you believe in yourself, others will too. Make sure you are authentic and memorable. Leave a lasting impact. I know I can do this job, no one wants to hire someone “who thinks they can do the job”. Confidence is king (or queen)
Enthusiasm:
Tell your story
Don’t regurgitate the facts on your resume. Use the power of personal stories to convey the essence of who you are and what’s important to you. It’s easier to be enthusiastic when you’re telling a story versus just restating facts. Showing you have a passion for what you do isn’t just a job. How do you stay up on the trends, who are you following on social media, what blogs are you reading, etc. Showing that enthusiasm only makes you that much more appealing to the hiring manager
Bringing the ice won’t get you the job but it will certainly help you nail the interview. And interviews get jobs!
Last but not least, SMILE it is contagious ☺
Written by Judy Goldman
