When it comes to finding a job, most candidates look for even the tiniest element to give them an edge – for instance, interview order.
Some candidates think it’s in their best interest to attempt to reserve the very first slot with the hiring manager – when everyone is at their freshest and the candidate has the opportunity to set the bar high.
Others, though, believe it’s the last slot that’s the ticket to landing the job; they’ll have the opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager because they were…well…last.
But at the end of the day, does it really matter? In other words, does it matter whether you’re the first interview of the day, the last, the one before lunch, or the one after?
As one of the leading employment agencies in Miami, we’re here to tell you: probably not.
Hiring managers are looking for people with the right skill set, the right personality, and a great track record to back it all up. If you’re that candidate, then you should have no problem making a great impression whether you’re first, last, or somewhere in between.
Likewise, if you’re a weak candidate who simply doesn’t fit the bill for the job, it’s not going to matter that you interviewed first or last. What’s going to matter is that the hiring manager thinks you’re all wrong.
So don’t focus too much on interview order and trying to secure the first or last spot of the day. Instead, focus on preparing ahead of time so when it’s your turn, you knock it out of the park. For instance, remember to:
- Research the company ahead of time and the person or people you’ll be interviewing with. Know who they are, what they do, the challenges they face, and how you can help solve them.
- Arrive 15 minutes early, just in case.
- Dress for success in a business suit.
- Be confident, look the interviewer in the eye, smile, and offer a firm handshake.
- Prepare a list of thoughtful questions to ask at the end of the interview.
- Send a thank you note after the interview thanking the hiring manager for their time and reiterating why you think you’d be a good match for the position.
Are You a Terrific Candidate in Search of a New Job Opportunity?
If you are, we can help. As one of the leading employment agencies in Miami, Future Force can help you find job opportunities that are the right fit for you so you can take the next step in your career. Contact us today to learn more.