The simple, straightforward sentence led to the candidate being hired right away
A hiring manager recently shared how one interviewee’s four-word sentence helped her land the job on the spot.
Getting ready for a job interview can feel like a huge task. From researching the company and understanding its values to preparing answers and coming up with your own questions, there’s a lot to consider.
On top of that, it's crucial to make sure you’re presenting your genuine self, which adds to the pressure of the whole experience.
All of this can feel overwhelming at times, which is why so many people turn to the internet to look for advice on how to make a great impression during interviews.
There are all kinds of tips out there. For instance, one manager revealed that he uses a coffee cup test in every interview he conducts, while another shared a rather blunt 'salt and pepper' trick to evaluate candidates.
Recently, a job candidate went on Reddit seeking some guidance, asking the forum: "What is an interview tip or trick that has always helped you get the job?"
The post received a flood of responses with advice. Many people suggested common tips like "ask questions" and "stay positive," but one particular response seemed to stand out:
"When they ask you if you have any questions you can ask, 'what project would you put me on if I started work today?' You'll get more detailed explanation of the specific role and also get them to think from the perspective of already having hired you."
However, it was a business owner's simple piece of advice that really resonated with readers.
The hiring manager explained that the best thing an applicant can do in an interview is to make it clear that they actually want the job.
They advised: "Ask for the job!"
"Both at the end of the interview state you want it. And follow up with a thank you email that reiterates it."
"I just hired someone for our family business. We had 60ish applicants, 12 were offered video interviews, four offered an in person interview and one offer letter. I ran the video interview portion since I'm based remote. ONE PERSON told me they want the job, and we hired her."
"... Generally at the end of the interview an interviewer will ask if you have any thing else you want to say. I will add a small summary of why my skills align with the position and why the position aligns with my goals. And then I'll directly say I want the job."
Other contributors stressed the value of sending a follow-up email after an interview.
One person shared their approach: "Send a thank-you note: thank the interviewer for their time and give 2-3 sentences reiterating why you are the best candidate for the job. It's very old school but it works."
Meanwhile, another user suggested a unique approach: "I send a hand written thank you note in the mail. Makes me stand out after interviews. I always have gotten offers when I've done that."