Job Interview Do Over

No need to be nervous on a job interview. Just follow these steps.

I’ve been on countless interview panels, searching for the next employee internally and externally to the organization. There are common factors that take place within all interviews. Want to know some tips for acing a job interview before, during and after? It’s time for an Interview Do Over, so be prepared for an opportunity to move up the career ladder.

Before the Job Promotion Interview

• Pay Attention to the Hiring Process. When you find out there is a job opportunity you're interested in, follow the application instructions. Don't expect to be able to bypass the company's hiring process to get the job. If the company has rules, they apply.
• Prepare for the Interview. Review common interview questions and answers and consider how you would respond, based on your knowledge of the company, your current job and the new position, your skills, and your goals for the future. Review the skills you have that make you qualified for the new job. Also review typical job promotion interview questions that you may be asked.
• Do Your Job Well. Even though you may be moving on, continue to do your current job well, to remind your superiors about what a great employee you are.
• Tell Your Boss. If you get selected for an interview, tell your current supervisor so he or she doesn't hear the news from a third party.
• Explain why are applying and ask your boss for his or her support.
• Prepare for the Promotion. Prepare to pass your current job on to someone else; have all of your ducks in a row. If your goal is to continue moving up in the company, leaving a mess behind can reflect poorly on you. Offer to assist with training and to be available for questions.

During the Job Promotion Interview

• Stay Professional. Even though you know the company and you may even know the interviewer, but do not lose your professional attitude. It's important not to come across as too casual and relaxed.
• Highlight your strengths. Your strengths may include your familiarity with the position/company, the success you have had in your current position, and the commitment you feel towards the company to make it as successful as possible.
• Remember You Don't Know Everything. Be prepared to talk about unfamiliar aspects of the position. Do not assume you already know the in's and out's. You may get caught off guard.
• Don't Be Over Confident. Do not go to the interview presuming that you "got the job" - an over confident attitude can be damaging.
• Ask Questions. If you have questions about the new position, what your role will be, and how you would transition, be sure to ask during the interview. Here are examples of questions to ask the interviewer.

After the Job Promotion Interview

• Say Thank You. Write a thank you note to the person that interviewed you. Reiterate your interest in the new position.
• Don't Burn Your Bridges. If you get the promotion, do not burn any bridges. You will be leaving co-workers behind, possibly becoming their superior, treat them with the same respect you did when you were working together. When the promotion is finalized, let your co-workers know that you are moving on. However, if the company is going to send an official announcement, wait until that is sent before sending a personal email message.
• Don't Have Hard Feelings. If you don't get the job, leave any negative feelings behind and work towards the next promotion opportunity.

Stick to these "Before, During and After" tips and it will definitely help you attain that leadership position you desire.

Keep the comments coming and let me know what other types of topics you're interested in having a "do over" moment.