How to Slam Dunk an Interview By Dewey Sadka

All employers use certain practices to select their #1 candidate. Why not slam dunk your interview critic by learning how to win approval?

As a major USA employer for 25 years, I've always been amazed at how many qualified people drop the interview ball. In fact, it's rare to find a person that does all five of the simple steps listed below. When they do, they score big.

Step 1: WALKING INTO THE ROOM—YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION

Before you walk into the interview, discard all the reasons why it won't work. Think only why it WILL work.

• Practice walking. Press your feet/toes firmly into the ground. This builds self-confidence.

• Think positive thoughts about yourself.

• Look into the interviewers' eyes and shake their hand firmly.

Step 2: INTRO SENTENCE—WHO ARE YOU?

Your intro statement is huge. Practice it ahead of time. No, it won't come out the same way—ever. If you own it as who YOU are, chances are it will be better! Not owning your career path? Visit: Color Career Indicator 4.0

• Why are you of value?

• Use only one sentence. No run-on phrases.

• Say it over and over until it becomes conversational.

Step 3: COMEBACK SENTENCE—YOUR SALES PITCH

After the interviewer replies, tell them your real contribution to them specifically. Make this phrase be…

• Why you are needed more than the others also interviewing. Make this only two or three sentences.

• First, make your comeback all about them. Yes! Research heavily before your interview.

• Then SELL yourself. Why are you their best choice?

Offer something for free. "I know I don't have everything required, but I am willing to train as an intern for a month."

Step 4: BODY LANGUAGE—IT SPEAKS BEFORE YOU DO

Company interviewers are experts at reading your body language. They open up when you have positive thoughts. Shut down when you don't.

• Whatever you're thinking, they're hearing too. So think great thoughts! Be friendly and attentive.

Step 5: CLOSING STATEMENT—BE POWERFUL. ALWAYS CLOSE!

Show your interviewer, with your close, that you're professional.

• Ask for their card (If you don't already have it), then stand up and say, "Thank you for your time."

Example: "I find your company very exciting. I'll touch base with you next Tuesday."

Now prove you want the job.

• The faster you follow-up, the better the chances that they'll remember you.

Author Dewey Sadka sold one of the nation's largest staffing companies, Temp Force to the global company Randstad. Currently as the career coach for AARP and CareerPath.com, he creates career path clarity with his Color Career Indicator 4.0—now the world's most accurate. http://www.deweycolorsystem.com