Getting invited for an interview after your application is a great relief and an indicator that you are just a step closer to your dream. The interview process is essential for every business and the approach varies depending on the role to be filled. So, the question, “How can I impress my boss in an interview? “ Stay tuned for the answer.
Because the interview phase is the most important stage in the recruitment process, you may have your boss as part of the interview panel. You need to be prepared beforehand to scale through the process. To do this, there are some questions you must anticipate and other due diligence that is required of you, don’t worry this article addresses everything.
Consequently, as we progress in this article, you will find the top 15 tips on how to impress your Boss in an interview. But first, let’s rewind the clock and discover what hiring managers or bosses look for when hiring new intake.
What do Bosses want to Hear in an Interview?
To know just how to impress your boss in an interview, you want to know what goes on in their mind during the interview process. These thoughts or standards form the basics of their judgment and the overall outcome of the process. So, take note of these facts if you truly want to impress your boss during an interview.
1. Your Skills and Experience:
Remember the reason why you made it to the interview stage is because your resume did a good job in representing you. So, it’s only natural for your boss or hiring manager to interrogate you in that regard.
Hence, the hiring manager wants to make sure that you have the skills and experience necessary to do the job. This includes both the hard skills (such as proficiency in specific software programs) and soft skills (such as communication and teamwork) as indicated in your CV
2. Culture Fit
This is a very important factor for hiring managers. They want to know whether you are a good fit for the role or not. Also, the hiring manager wants to know how well-aligned your goals are with the company’s work culture. Therefore, you may be asked to describe your previous experience regarding the job you are applying for.
3. How well do you understand the Role?
It would be disappointing if you were unable to describe or express the typical duties and tools needed for the role you are being interviewed for. So, the hiring manager will evaluate your skill level to know if you are both fit and ready to take on the role. In that case, be prepared to talk about yourself in the context of what you bring to the table.
3. Are you ready to put in the work?
Your excitement about the roles answers this question. The hiring manager wants to see if you are enthusiastic and confident about the role. This naturally shows in your comportment and demeanor during the interview session.
4. Do you have the growth potential?
No one is eager to hire an employer with poor foreign, not even hiring managers. So, they want to see that you have the potential to grow and develop in the role. They can tell this during the interview sessions.
Now you know what hiring managers look out for during interviews, how can you leave a lasting impression during your interview with your boss?
Related: What is the Best Question to Ask a CEO During an Interview?
How to Impress Your Boss in an Interview
Here are 10 ways to impress your boss in an interview:
- Know the company’s culture
- Get to know the Interviewer
- Be early to your interview
- Dress like a Professional
- Be enthusiastic in your conversation
- Show that you are a Team player
- Demonstrate your proficiency
- Speak clearly and confidently
- Tell and show your story with passion
- Make your answers calculative and structure
#1. Know the company’s culture
Do proper research on the company and the position you are interviewing for. This shows your boss that you are serious about the job and that you have taken the time to prepare. Also, research the company’s work culture and ethics to be sure it aligns with your goals. This will help you articulate seamlessly in your discussion.
#2. Get to know the Interviewer
Although most candidates research the company before applying for the role mentioned above, you can be better by researching the interviewer. Get to know their background and roles. Thankfully, you can do that with social media precisely on LinkedIn. Now with this knowledge, you can prepare specific questions to ask each regarding their contribution to the company’s growth.
#3. Be Early to your interview
If you want to impress your boss or the interviewing panel during your interview, ensure you show up at least 5 minutes before the interview begins. This applies to both virtual and in-person interviews. Punctuality shows that you are respectful of your boss’s time and that you are reliable.
#4. How to Impress your Boss in ann Interview/ Dress like a Professional
Some people call it cliche but it’s the truth, if you want to be addressed like a professional, you have to dress like one. Whether it is a virtual interview or not, the way you dress tells the interviewer a lot about your personality and education. Hence, Your appearance should make a good first impression on your boss. Dress in neat, clean, and appropriate clothing
#5. Be Enthusiastic in your Conversation
When your boss throws a question at you, always ensure it with enthusiasm. Even when you don’t have an answer to the question. Make it clear that you are enthusiastic by smiling, and speaking with calm and confidence. More so, at whatever point reiterate it, and even when you send in a ‘thank you’ note, mention it too.
Related: Top 50+ Questions Asked in Strategic Interview Sessions
#6. Show that you are a Team Player
Most roles involve some level of collaboration, hence, you must express your willingness and ability to thrive with a team. Talk about your previous experience and the things you accomplished by working with a team.
Also, talk more about the roles you played, the contributions you made, the successes you achieved, and what you will be contributing to the team.
#7. Demonstrate your Proficiency
The best way to impress your boss in your interview is to demonstrate your proficiency in the role. Make it clear that you have the skills and experiences required for the position. Now, the best way to send the message home and get another is by citing specific accomplishments you’ve attained before your accomplishment.
#8. Speak Clearly and Confidently
If you want to impress your boss, you have to master holding and sustaining the conversation during the interview. In addition to the factors discussed above, speak confidently and boldly about your skills and achievements. This reinforces the validity of your claim and makes your boss trust you even more.
#9. Tell your Story with Passion
Tell your story, talk about your journey, how you started, and what you’ve achieved. Allow the conversation to flow naturally. This will ease tension in your nerves making the interview session seamless and coordinated.
#10. Make your answers Calculative and well-structured
Lastly, When you provide well-structured answers, it shows that you’ve taken the time to prepare for the interview. This level of preparation indicates your respect for the opportunity and the company. Also, your response highlights your attention to detail. This is what all employers look out for in prospective employers.
Conclusion on How to impress your Boss in an interview
The best way to impress your boss during your interview session is to place the company as the focus of your discussion. Also, be confident in your skills and talk about your achievements and experiences with boldness. The aim is to make your boss know you are the one for the job. So, don’t just tell, show.
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