Ace a job interview in Seattle, 7 tips to get started, calendar with interview date circled, in-office interview and panel interview, From the desk NWRPSFS, written by Alexandra Niedzialkowski

How to Ace a Job Interview in Seattle:

If you have a job interview coming up, on a screen, or in person, you should be thinking about how to make yourself a memorable candidate in the Seattle job climate. In the Seattle area, many businesses have more casual and personable job environments, and may be looking for different things than traditional employers. The key is to match your interview approach with the employer. Here are some tips to get you started!

 

1) Rock Your Look.

Wear clothes that make you feel confident and professional specific to the industry. For example, some large tech companies in Seattle have a reputation for being more business casual, and dressing too formal may make you stick out like a first-timer. Ultimately, wear what makes you feel your best, but it does say something when you do a little research and find out the company’s fashion vibe. Speaking of Research…

 

2) Do Your Homework.

Learn about the company, know about their statement of purpose, company values, and why their service or product matters to people. Google the person interviewing you; get to know their accomplishments, and weave that information into the interview.

 

3) Make a Human Connection.

Believe it or not, the person interviewing you is also a human who likes movies, music, and great Thai food. If the hiring manager asks you how your day is, go a little more in depth than the weather. Treat the job interview like a conversation, one you are invested in and curious about. This tip is key in a tight-knit office where employees spend a lot of time together: They want to know who they’re working with.

 

4) Think Actions and Impact.

When talking about previous work experience, highlight your actions and the results. Talk about processes that you improved and solutions you initiated. Did you improve customer experience, make your manager’s life easier, or save time for your team? This is your time to shine and let them know, not only are you a great candidate who will get the job done, but you will bring value to their company that was not there before.

Bring some detailed examples of the improvement and impact you made in previous roles. If you grew your last companies YouTube channel from 1,000 to 10,000 subscribers, bring the data and discuss the impact it made. Make sure you also have specific examples for common interview questions, like a time you navigated conflict or improved a client experience. Vague details are not believable or memorable.

 

5) Know Yourself.

Be self-aware and able to articulate your learning style, your leadership style, and your communication style. Chances are, a hiring manager is very aware of how their teams function and what kind of employee will be most likely to succeed on the team. Candidates who know where they thrive and where they need improvement are extremely valuable.

 

6) Ask Great Questions.

What kinds of questions would you ask if you were not interviewing as a candidate but interviewing as a journalist, trying to understand the company and the team you are applying for? People are impressed by people who know what they want. A job interview is not only about the company interviewing a candidate, it’s also about the candidate interviewing the company. How will this opportunity fit into your goals and your life?

 

7) Gratitude and Connection.

Send a thank-you note to your interviewer after the interview is complete. If you felt a real connection, send them a note on LinkedIn. People like to help people, and you never know what opportunities a new connection can bring. Even if you are not chosen for the role you interviewed for, the impression you make matters. If you set yourself up to be memorable because of your kindness, your professionalism, and your authenticity, doors will surely open ahead.