4 People You’re Competing with in Job Interviews

Congratulations! You’ve made it over the first hurdle and are invited to come in for an interview with the hiring manager of your dream job! This is extremely exciting…that is until panic sets in. What kind of candidates will you be up against? How do you best prepare?

Let’s talk about the four types of candidates you will be competing with and how to surpass!

The Extreme Studier

This candidate has spent hours researching the company, job description, and preparing answers to every possible question under the sun. However, there is a couple of weaknesses with this type of candidate:

  • He or she may come across as robotic without personable skills
  • Will not be able to answer any questions for which answers were not previously prepared

You can compete against this type of candidate only by understanding your own skillset as it relates to the job instead of memorizing answers. By doing this, you will be able to answer questions more easily and sincerely. Think of past employment examples that demonstrate your qualifications.

Flying by the Seat of Their Pants Candidate

This type of candidate tends to be incredibly charming and is accustomed to being able to smooth talk anyone, including employers. This person typically doesn’t do any homework whatsoever and tends to fabricate answers. The key to beating this type of candidate is to do your homework. You don’t have to spend hours upon hours studying, but you should understand the company, its values, and the skill set the particular position you are interviewing for demands.

The Elite Candidate

This type of candidate attended elite schools and has worked for top-rated employers. He or she was born and bred for this job, and it shows on their resume. They have prestigious references and seem unbeatable! Don’t give up just yet! Just because a candidate looks great on paper, doesn’t mean that their personality will be a fit for the company. Show a strong work ethic and willingness to work your way to the top.

The Know-It-All Candidate

This is the candidate who knows the answer to absolutely everything or, so he or she thinks. Here’s the thing, employers aren’t looking for someone who knows it all. They are looking for a candidate who is willing to learn how their company conducts business. Employers would rather have candidates who are willing to learn than know-it-all candidates who have bad habits that will need to be revised.

Resource Staffing is Ready to Assist with your Resume Preparation

When it comes to helping candidates find jobs, Resource Staffing is one of the leading staffing firms in Texas. Our specialists are dedicated to helping you from start to finish. This includes helping you prepare for your big interview! Contact us today and walk into your next interview with confidence!

What Should I Wear to My Job Interview?

First impressions are everything! Before you even speak your first words at your interview, you have already made your first impression by the way you are dressed. YES! It happens that quick!  What should you wear to your job interview to make sure your first impression hits the mark?

Research the Dress Code of the Company

Do your homework prior to your job interview. Learn about the company’s culture. Find out about the company’s dress code policy. If you look the part of someone who belongs in the company, you will have an easier time selling yourself during the interview.

Avoid Overdressing for Your Interview

A sophisticated, professional appearance is important for your interview. However, don’t overdo it. A good rule of thumb is to dress one level above how employees dress on a day-to-day basis. Overdressing will make you stand out, and not in a good way. It also gives the impression you lack a certain understanding of the company.

Refrain From Using Perfumes and Cologne

It is best to leave perfumes and colognes untouched. You never know if the hiring manager has a sensitivity or allergy to certain scents. There could be a chance the person conducting your interview finds your perfume or cologne unattractive. This can, unfortunately, give a negative impression and may cost you a job offer.

Pay Attention to Minute Grooming and Hygiene Details

Make sure your clothes are freshly laundered and ironed. Do not show up to your interview in a musty, wrinkled outfit. Shower and style your hair. Men should trim any facial hair. It is important to look neat and clean. An employer will assume a candidate who doesn’t put effort into their physical appearance will not put effort into their job either.

Try on the Outfit Before Your Interview

The way clothing looks on the shelf, is not always how it fits once you get home. Do a test run of your outfit a few days before your interview. Make sure it fits as it should and the different pieces match. If an item doesn’t look quite right, you will have time to make the necessary adjustments.

Professional Staffing Firm Dedicated to Helping You From Start to Finish

Interviews can seem intimidating at first. You not only want to say the right things, but dress in a way that makes a statement. RESOURCE Staffing is a premier staffing firm in Texas with over 30 years of experience matching the right employees with the right companies. Our dedicated specialists go above and beyond to make sure you are properly prepared for your interview. Contact us today to speak with one of our staffing experts.