Mastering Both Sides of the Interview Table

by Wade Simmons

I've been on both sides of the interview table more times than I can count over the years. Early on, I was the one getting interviewed, but now I’m usually the one asking the questions—whether it’s on the phone, through video, or in person. I’ve had thousands of conversations as both a hiring manager and recruiter.

When I was a teenager and in my early twenties, I juggled multiple part-time jobs, trying to make a bit more money wherever I could. That meant a lot of interviews. I was pretty good at landing jobs, but not all of them turned out to be the right fit, so I moved around a lot, trying different things.

As I got older, finished university, and started to have more of a plan and direction for where I wanted my career to go, I became more intentional about my job search. Instead of applying for everything, I focused on roles and companies that interested me. Well-written job postings that clearly defined the role caught my eye. This approach reduced the number of calls I got but increased the quality of the ones that came through.

Tables Turned

Then came the interviews. I always made sure I was prepared, which helped me get multiple offers. But there was one thing I wasn’t doing enough of—being proactive. I used to just hope the company would pick me, but at some point, I thought, "Why am I not also picking them?" I re-framed my interviews so that it was me picking the company that I wanted to be hired by!

So, I started asking more questions—about the company, the culture, what a typical day looked like in the role, and things that mattered to me, like work-life balance and compensation. Sometimes, I’d even ask to speak with someone in the department to get a clearer picture. This approach helped me land jobs that I actually enjoyed and could grow in, instead of just taking whatever was offered.

At the end of the day, preparation was key. “Winging it” was rarely effective. Also realizing that I had something amazing to offer and that getting a job is a two-way street where everyone has to benefit.

Investing time in preparation for an interview helps you approach the interview confidently. Consider this: only 20% of job seekers spend an hour or more preparing for interviews, including reviewing the job description, reflecting on their value proposition, researching company benefits, and preparing at least three questions.

Here’s how to be a part of that 20%:

The Dual Purpose of Interviews

Understanding the dual purpose of an interview is crucial:

• For the Company: The goal is to evaluate if your background, skills, and personality align with the job requirements and company culture. Employers will assess whether your experience and education match the job tasks and if you fit within their environment.

• For You: This is your opportunity to showcase your strengths and determine if the role and company align with your career goals and values. It’s also a chance to learn more about the company and the team.

Steps to Prepare for an Interview

1. Research the Company

Investigate the company’s history, products, services, and team. Learn about the hiring manager and other interviewers, to anticipate the types of questions you might face. For example, HR representatives might focus on general qualifications, while department heads could delve into technical aspects.

Extend your research to company reviews and industry trends to understand competitors and the market landscape. This knowledge prepares you for questions and demonstrates your serious interest in the role.

2. Review the Job Description

The job description outlines the role’s expectations, responsibilities, and requirements. Revisit it to align your experience with the position. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate how your background makes you a strong candidate.

Go in depth

• Break down the job description and highlight the main responsibilities. Think about how your experience aligns with these tasks.
• List the skills required for the role and prepare examples from your past work that demonstrate your proficiency in these areas.

3. Anticipate and Prepare Questions

Preparation involves two areas: anticipating questions you might be asked and preparing questions for the interviewer.

• Review common interview questions and prepare relevant examples from your experience, such as successful implementations, business plan executions, or team mentoring. Practice articulating these responses, but avoid rote memorization. Instead, organize your thoughts to respond naturally.
• Develop thoughtful questions for the interviewer. These should help you understand the role, team dynamics, and company culture, while also showing your engagement and interest.

4. Prepare Your Value Proposition:

Recruiters often ask candidates "tell me about yourself." You have just seven seconds to make a positive impression in areas like trustworthiness, friendliness, and competence. So, perfecting your pitch sets the tone for the interview, highlights your strengths, and demonstrates your preparation and confidence, and it will definitely increase your chances of success.

Some tips

• Think about what unique skills and experiences you bring to the table. Prepare a concise statement that sums up your strengths and how they relate to the position.

• Be ready to discuss specific achievements from your past roles that demonstrate your capabilities and how they relate to the job you're applying for.

5. Mental Preparation

Before the interview, whether in-person or virtual, take 10-15 minutes to clear your mind. Arriving early or setting aside time in your schedule helps you avoid last-minute stress.

Key tip: Visualize Success! Taking a moment to visualize a successful interview. will boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for an interview is a crucial step in your job search journey. It’s not just about having the right answers; it’s about ensuring you’re making the right choice for yourself as well. With this, you’ll go into the interview feeling more confident and equipped to showcase what you bring to the table.

Remember, interviews are a two-way street. While the company is assessing if you’re the right fit for them, you’re also figuring out if this is the right place for you. The thoughtful questions you develop will not only demonstrate your interest but also help you gauge whether the company’s culture aligns with your own values.

All the best out there!