For Candidates

Driggs Search International > For Candidates

Interviews: The Four Key Elements

Chemistry
Building rapport with your interviewer.

Competency
Demonstrating your skills and experience.

Interview Performance
Presenting yourself as the best fit

Desire
Showing how much you want the job.

To secure an offer, you need to plan, prepare, and perform.

Interview Tips for Candidates

  • Dress the Part: Always dress professionally, even if the dress code is casual. It’s better to lean toward business attire unless told otherwise.
  • Arrive Early: Aim to be at the location 10 minutes before your interview to show punctuality and enthusiasm.
  • Stay Positive and Confident: Offer a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, sit up straight, and smile often. Your attitude can be as important as your answers.
  • Research Thoroughly: Study the company’s background, the role, and your interviewer. Knowledge is power.
  • Prepare Mini-Stories: Have real-life examples ready to demonstrate your skills and accomplishments. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for clarity.
  • Ask Thoughtful Questions: Avoid asking about salary and benefits early on. Instead, ask about company goals, challenges, and growth opportunities.
  • Discuss Salary Smartly: Be honest about your current compensation but express flexibility. Emphasize your interest in the position and willingness to consider a competitive offer.
  • Frame Your Job Changes Positively: When explaining your reasons for leaving previous roles, focus on career growth and new opportunities rather than negative experiences.
  • Show Enthusiasm: Make it clear that you’re excited about the position and ready to contribute.
  • Send a Thank-You Note: Always follow up with a personalized thank-you email to reiterate your interest in the role and appreciation for the interview.

Common Interview Questions You Might Be Asked

  1. How did you prepare for this interview?
  2. Why should we hire you?
  3. What are you most proud of in your career?
  4. Describe a challenge you’ve faced and how you overcame it.
  5. What motivates you to work?
  6. What are your long-term career goals?
  7. What is your greatest weakness, and how do you manage it?
  8. How do you handle criticism or failure?
  9. Can you give an example of a time you demonstrated leadership?
  10. How would your former employer describe you?
  11. Why did you leave your last position?
  12. What do you know about our company?
  13. Describe a time you disagreed with a coworker or manager. How did you handle it?
  14. How do you prioritize your work when facing multiple deadlines?
  15. What skills do you have that make you a great fit for this role?
  16. Can you tell me about a time you made a mistake at work? How did you fix it?
  17. What do you value most in a workplace?
  18. Why do you want to work here?
  19. How do you stay organized and manage your time effectively?
  20. What do you do to continue developing your professional skills?

For Candidates