Interview Strategy Q&A With Susan Bernstein, Ph.D

Interview Strategy Q&A With Susan Bernstein, Ph.D

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Even if you are an interview pro, sitting across from someone you have likely never met before can be very intimidating.

That’s why we sat down with Executive Coach, Susan Bernstein, Ph.D, to get some strategies for building positive rapport with interviewers (to view the full video, click here).

Here are some of the burning questions from our audience, and Bernstein’s answers.

Q: How do I respond to an interviewer who acts more like an interrogator?

A: “Certain industries like Investment banking has been notorious for pressure interviews,” says Bernstein. But if someone is trying to antagonize you, you can ask them “I’m feeling that this is turning into an interrogation. Is that your intent?” It can be a gutsy move, but you want to find out the reason for their aggression. They may want to see how you act under intense pressure, they may have had an awful day, or they may not be used to interviewing and believe they are supposed to be tough. 

Try to politely find their motive for being aggressive.  State that: “I’m looking for ways to find a commonality (between us),” and that you feel the interview might not be going the right direction.

Also remember “People do in the interviews what they’re going to do when they get to work.” This can be a solid indicator of the type of person you may end up working with.

Q: As a senior professional, I am concerned that I am being aged-out, or am out of touch with younger interviewers. What should I do?

A: “If you’re not feeling comfortable around people much younger than you, you might be telling yourself negative stories” says Bernstein. Check your inner psychology to make sure you are not convincing yourself that you are not the right fit, or able to mesh in with the culture. If that is the case, flip your perspective and change your mindset. Focus on the great experiences you have and can bring to the table.

Q: How do I interview with a panel? When there are 3 or more people interviewing me?

A: “Imagine they are already your friends…your inner psychology creates more of your outer-world.” This will help you be at ease in a group (or individual) conversation. It will also make it feel less like an “interrogation panel” and more like a water-cooler talk.

“Answer the question to the person you got it from.” You want to focus mainly on the question asker, but be sure to make eye contact with the rest of the panel as well. “Be responsive to the individual and to the group.”

Q: What questions should I ask the interviewer?

A: Do as much research as you can about the company. Find out trends…that are relevant to them or their competitors. For example you can ask: “So I see that your company is creating this new product, how does it play a role in this industry?” You want to demonstrate that you have put in the time, and did your research.

You also want to learn about the culture, and how the day-to-day looks. Don’t ask questions like “How many hours do you work?” or “Do people take their vacation days?” That can telegraph that you might not be a team player or the right cultural fit. You should, however, ask them: “Tell me about this week for you. Tell me about your professional – and even your personal life! What’s your schedule been like?” This is a discreet way to find out what the demands of the job can be like, and also gives the interviewer an opportunity to talk about themselves – which is something people genuinely like to do!

Have a question of your own? Send them to us in the comments below!

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