On average, an interview generally lasts between 20 and 60 minutes, depending on the type and level of the role. This is a very small amount of time for you to successfully deliver your message to the potential employer. Therefore, is it crucial that you focus on getting your message across in an effective and efficient manner.
The best type of interview is a conversation, whereby each participant contributes 50% shaping and developing the flow of conversation. If you come out of an interview and the interviewer has done the majority of the talking, likelihood is you have demonstrated a lack of interaction. Similarly, if you have done the majority of the talking, you have probably given the interviewer the impression that you aren’t the greatest listener.
Preparation
A successful interviewing technique, like many other skills in the business world, comes from practice and preparation. Preparation for an interview is without a doubt just as important as the interview itself!
Before entering the interview you should aim to know as much as you possibly can about the company, the role you are applying for, current marketing trends and the latest industry news. This type of information will allow you to give informative and engaging answers that will not only allow you to ‘show off’ your knowledge, but to express your passion for the industry – something which many employers want to see.
Listen
During the interview, it is important to listen to the interviewer and respond to the questions that they ask in full. In most instances you will be asked direct questions, so it is quite easy to understand the kind of information the interviewer is looking for. Be sure to stay on point and avoid changing the direction of the conversation unless necessary.
Allow the interviewer to lead the conversation, but remember to contribute your fair share.
Engagement
Its seems to be standard interviewing procedure to save any questions that you may have until the end, however, asking questions throughout the interview shows a great level of interaction – providing you do not dominate the conversation and ask an unnecessary amount of questions.
Asking questions throughout the interview shows the interviewer that you are really listening to what they are saying and that you are fully engaged in the conversation.
