I reflected on my past interviews and I feel like I may have found the biggest problems in my interviews:
Nerves. I’m a pretty shy person irl, so especially in professional settings, I might even stutter a bit at times or fiddle with my fingers, etc. Haven’t found a way to workaround this, but someone said to imagine something funny about the interviewer and I might try that my next interview.
Placing an emphasis on my willingness to learn. Previously when I searched for my last job, I placed a huge emphasis that I wished to join a company to learn.
The interviewers I interviewed with then seemed to like that since I got a couple of offers, but didn’t seem to work this time. A friend told me that I should instead place a larger emphasis on what I CAN do, rather than learn, because while companies do teach, they are also not an academy.
I thought about this and felt that it made a lot of sense. Should I, then, place more focus on what I can do when answering the interviewer’s questions, and ask about how they plan on training the candidate during the part of the interview where I get to ask questions?
Anyone has any other interview tips? Would be greatly appreciated, thanks!
Additional information: looking at Key Account/marketing executive roles, graduated from Uni last year. Left first job due to company restructuring, second job due to company culture + job wasn’t what it was in the JD.
Netizens’ comments
If you struggle with nerves during interviews, the best way to improve is through practice. Consider recording yourself answering common interview questions, then reviewing the playback to identify areas where you can improve. This can help you refine your responses and feel more confident during the actual interview.
When it comes to demonstrating your fit for a job, it’s important to do more than just show a willingness to learn. While it’s important to convey that you’re open to new experiences and eager to develop your skills, you also need to show that you have the knowledge, experience, and mindset to succeed in the role. An ideal candidate would show that they are aware of the realities and demands of the job and be able to speak to past experiences that indicate that they are prepared for the position. Then, you show your willingness to learn and adapt your skills to the unique circumstances of the position you are applying to.
To assess your potential for learning and growth within a company, try to interview your potential bosses and colleagues. Ask them thoughtful questions about their approach to the work and how they help team members develop new skills. This can give you a sense of whether the company is a good fit for your goals and learning style.
Remember, training and development are a two-way street. While it’s important to be proactive in identifying your own learning opportunities, it’s also essential to work with colleagues and supervisors who are supportive and can help you grow in your role. Focus on finding a company and team that will offer the support and mentorship you need to thrive.