By Luke Melms
Baseball is a game of limited control. For a hitter, a line drive hit right at a fielder is worth the same as a strikeout. For a pitcher, a perfect pitch blooped over the second baseman doesn’t get the out. The interview process is similar in the fact that you can only control being prepared and executing once you walk in. Here are four important interview tips that cannot be overlooked:
- Research not only the company but anyone you are interviewing with. Visit their LinkedIn page to see where they went to school, companies they have worked for previously and how long they’ve been at their current company. A great question to ask is, “What originally attracted you to this organization and has kept you here for ___ years?”
- Get a business card from everyone you meet with and send a personalized email note afterwards. Interviewing is a sales process of yourself. The smallest of differences can swing things as a final decision is made between finalists.
- Assuming you are as interested in the opportunity at the end of the interview as the beginning, be sure to ask “What is the next step in the interview process from here?” As much as you will be wanting to get feedback upon leaving, the company needs to know you are interested in them.Swinging hard and missing beats the feeling of regret. Always have a high level of energy and attention to detail whether you are meeting with the CEO or greeting the receptionist upon walking in. Never assume the job is yours until an offer is made.