Doing This (Almost) GUARANTEES You Get Hired In A Job Interview!

Introduction

When you invest a mere three minutes into effective storytelling during a job interview, you shift the dynamic from a cold interview to a warm exchange between friends. Studies have shown that the candidates who get shortlisted for jobs aren’t merely lucky; they are well-prepared. Luck, if defined as "preparation meeting opportunity," plays a significant role. Those who have prepared for common interview questions increase their chances of securing opportunities when they arise.

I reached out to a friend in the recruiting sector in Australia, Jared, to gather insights on the most frequently asked interview questions. His response provided a top ten list that every candidate should be prepared for. Here they are:

Tell us about yourself.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Why do you want to work here?
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Why should we hire you?
Tell us about a challenge or conflict you've faced at work and how you dealt with it.
What is your greatest professional achievement?
Why are you leaving your current job?
How do you handle stress and pressure?
Do you have any questions for us?

Despite knowing these common queries, many candidates choose not to prepare adequately. Often, they resort to clichés and descriptive adjectives when asked about themselves. Instead of answering with dry phrases like "My values are integrity and punctuality," candidates should forge a connection through storytelling.

For instance, let’s consider a hypothetical interview for the position of Head of Innovation at Apple. Instead of listing qualifications, how about starting with an origin story? When asked to share about yourself, instead of a generic response, consider sharing a memorable childhood moment.

Here’s how it could go:

“Thank you for your observation regarding my fidgeting leg. If I had to tell you a little about myself, there’s a moment from my childhood that stands out. At the age of 13, I sought love—perhaps not in the romantic sense, but I asked my dad how to find it. He said, ‘No money, no honey.’ Reflecting on this wisdom led me to explore entrepreneurship. I discovered eBay and borrowed my parents' credit card to purchase MP3 players in bulk. Selling them to friends doubled my initial investment, and while my parents weren't thrilled, it sparked a lifelong passion for innovation. That's why I’m eager to contribute to Apple: I'm an early adopter and thrive on being at the forefront of technology.”

This storytelling approach fosters rapport with the interviewers. The shared laughter, the engaging narrative, and the authentic self-representation establish a bond. Suddenly, instead of merely asking questions, the interviewers are engaging with a friend. By investing just three minutes into a personal story, you effectively create a compelling connection.

In Conclusion: Craft a powerful origin story tailored for the role you’re applying for. The next time you're in an interview, share your story, build that rapport, and experience a wholly redefined interview dynamic.

Keywords

Storytelling
Job interview
Preparation
Common interview questions
Origin story
Rapport
Friends
Connection
Early adopter
Entrepreneurship

FAQ

Q1: Why is storytelling important in a job interview?
A1: Storytelling allows candidates to connect with interviewers on a personal level, transforming the interview into a friendly conversation and showcasing their personality.

Q2: What are common interview questions I should prepare for?
A2: Common questions include “Tell us about yourself,” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” and “Why should we hire you?”

Q3: How can I create an origin story?
A3: Reflect on a significant personal experience that relates to the job you’re seeking. Share it in a way that highlights your skills and passion for the industry.

Q4: What’s the best way to answer “Tell us about yourself”?
A4: Begin with a relevant personal story that showcases who you are, and link it to your qualifications for the job you are applying for.

Q5: Can preparing for an interview really make a difference?
A5: Yes, preparation increases confidence and allows candidates to articulate their qualifications and stories compellingly, vastly improving their chances of success.