Don't Call it an Interview
Back when I was in retained executive search, we rarely called interviews interviews.
We called them meetings.
Why?
Because no matter how successful many professionals become, when it comes to job interviews, too many default into fresh-out-of-college mode. (Read what I say about "pick me, pick me!" mode in Who or What is a Leader?)
Or worse, compensating behaviors.
Interviewing is one of the least practiced skills, yet interviewing well is essential to one’s career.
Today I counsel clients to think about interviews as meetings.
Thinking of interviews as meetings is profoundly subtle, but it helps everyone keep their footing.
It helps people speak and act with professional certainty and authority.
Don’t get me wrong, a certain level of nerves and energy can fuel job search activities and help you present “you on your best day.” But you’re really looking for a two way meeting between professionals.
Next time you accept an interview—or heck, when you call someone in for an interview—think of it as a meeting and watch the conversation flourish.
Looking for a Bay Area interview coach? Here are two resources. Let them know Jared Redick sent you: