An interview strategy that puts you in control

A job interview can be an anxious experience. Even the best of us can feel those nerves creep up when we think about them. But for most roles they’re a necessary process 

I’ve trained people in employability and building interview skills is something I’m passionate about. I commonly find people worry as they feel they have no idea what they’re about to face. And this inspired me to create a framework to bring the control back. 

Let’s start at the beginning – we know ourselves better than anyone else can. We know our skills, our strengths, our areas for improvement. We also know what we’ve done in the past and why we want the role. The most-part of interviews is usually taken up exploring this area. 

It makes sense then to ensure we put forward the best of ourselves. To make the plan of action to leave the interview having stressed all of these most important things about us. And this is at the core of the interview strategy I created. 

Introducing the “Lucky 7 & the Magic 3”  

The “Lucky 7” are your skills. 7 of your very best qualities. I’ve included a list of some common ones at the bottom of this post and you might find it useful to highlight all that apply to you and narrow down to 7. For each of these 7 skills you want to think of a reason why you know that you’re good at this skill. So, for example, I know I have good analytical skills as I’m able to solve problems quickly. Meeting deadlines is a strength as I’m used to a fast-paced commercial environment. You don’t just want to memorize these – you need to believe them too. 

Then there’s the “Magic 3”. These are more story-led pieces to really show what you’re like in the context of a scenario. Think of 3 strong experiences you can bring to life showing you at your best. Maybe you can talk through a project you worked on – giving details of the obstacles you overcame and the results at the end? Or perhaps you launched a new product in your business, and this generated new income/customers? Whatever the experience, the most important thing is that it gives you an opportunity to talk through what you’re capable of – and engage the interviewers with a compelling story. 

Whilst there are likely to be some knowledge-based questions about the company or industry (which are worth doing your homework on up-front!) most questions you’ll be asked can be answered with 1 of the “Lucky 7 & Magic 3”. By the end of the interview you want to ensure you have landed all 10. Tick them off in your head as you go and don’t be afraid to share any missed ones as an additional point you want to raise. 

The “Lucky 7 & Magic 3” might stay with you for a long while, but don’t be afraid to adapt if you apply for different roles. A digital company might be more keen to hear about your work with technology, or a customer facing role might need more focus on communication. You know yourself better than anyone else, but you can also predict what the company you’re applying to might need too. 

The other benefit of this approach is that it gives you just 10 things to remember going into your interview. 10 is manageable. It gives you enough to keep your mind busy as you await your interview slot but not so much that it overwhelms. Before you even hear the first question you already know what you are going to share. 

I’ve heard from people who use this strategy and say it’s worked for them. It's made them feel in control and they’ve been successful in the roles they applied to. But some people still find whatever strategies they have that interviews always bring our their nerves. If this is you, don’t forget that the people interviewing you have been in your shoes too. Being nervous is not uncommon – and can even be a sign of how much you want the role. Just don’t let it prevent you demonstrating the best qualities you have. 

Accuracy

Leadership 

Analytical 

Likeability 

Adaptable 

Good listener 

Attention to detail 

Logical 

Storytelling

Motivated 

Calm under pressure 

Negotiation

Communication 

Networking  

Closing sales 

Open minded 

Collaborative 

Optimistic 

Meeting deadlines 

Organized 

Presenting 

People Skills

Creativity  

Persuasive

Decisive

Positive attitude 

Dedicated 

Prioritizing 

Dependable 

Problem Solving

Designer 

Professional 

Trainer 

Responsible 

Detailed mind 

Results driven 

Determination 

Sense of humour 

Efficiency 

Strategic 

Enthusiastic 

Streamlining processes 

Establishing a quick rapport 

Strong work ethic 

Flexibility 

Successful 

Focused 

Tact and diplomacy 

Friendly 

Teamwork 

High achiever 

Work fast/speedy