These are simple steps that will communicate indirectly the type of candidate you are.
Having a great interview is only part of the process and how you handle other interactions will speak volumes about you. With that in mind, below are four things that a candidate MUST do during the hiring process to make a strong first impression.
#1—Be flexible when scheduling interview times.
Yes, you’re a busy person. Yes, you may even be a top candidate in your field. However, if you’re interested in another employment opportunity, you’re going to have to participate in a face-to-face interview during working hours. While it’s true that there is a balance to be struck and companies should be sensitive regarding your availability, you should also realize that the situation demands a certain amount of flexibility on your behalf.
#2—Communicate often.
This applies to communicating with the company and/or a recruiter, if you’re working with one. Lack of communication and timely feedback can have devastating consequences, especially if the company is seriously considering more than one candidate. Being ready and willing to communicate and act quickly could position you as the front-runner and lead to an offer of employment. Lack of communication, on the other hand, leads exactly where you think it would: absolutely nowhere.
#3—Be honest!
If these were ranked in order of importance, this would be #1. There is nothing more important than being honest at all stages of the process, and that starts with being honest on your resume. It continues with being truthful during the face-to-face interview and with everybody you meet at the company. If you’re working with a recruiter, inform them of interviews with other potential employers. Doing so will not hurt your candidacy.
#4—Honor your commitments.
If you say you’ll call somebody, be sure to call. If you say you’ll be somewhere for an interview, make sure you’re there. If you say that you’re going to do something, do it! That’s not just common sense, but it’s also intelligent personal branding. This applies to accepting an offer of employment, too. If you accept the offer, honor your commitment. Don’t back out at the last minute because you received a better offer from another company. Your industry is smaller than you think.
Any candidate “worth their salt” will meet these expectations during the hiring process, and more than likely, they’ll reap the benefits of doing so.
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