Interview How-To for That In-Company Job

Q. I have an interview next week for a job in my company that I’d really like. How can I land the job? Are there things I should do differently, because I’m already in the company?— James F.

A. Interviewing for a job within your present company isn’t much different from interviewing outside your company. One big difference: make sure your boss knows you’re interviewing and supports your efforts. You’ll need your boss’s support when he or she is asked for references.

Next, learn all you can about the job you’re applying for by reading the job description. Why do you want this job, with this department? Contact people you know in the department and get their views on the job—and your chances of being successful in it. Expect two or three interviews— maybe even one with an interviewing team.

Practice Your Answers

Plan your answers to the following key questions, and ask a friend (someone who will tell you the truth) to play the role of the interviewer. Then practice—hard and seriously.

“You’ve seen the job description; what about it seems to interest you the most? The least? Why is that?

Be careful about saying what you don’t like; you could come across as negative or narrow-minded, and both attitudes will limit your options. Focus on the challenges you expect to experience; the opportunity to apply your skills in a new situation; the chance to develop new skills and work with different products or services.

How does this job compare with others you are now considering?

Don’t appear as if you’re shopping around; let the interviewers know you’re serious about this job.

What do you want to do five years from now? Ten years?

Show that you have a plan for your life and your career—that you’re serious about growing in your field and are committed to this company.

What has been your greatest achievement?

This reveals your self-image, your pride in accomplishments, and your sense of purpose. Be ready to answer without hesitation.

Tell me about your most recent disappointment—when you just couldn't get a job done in your own way, on your own terms.

This shows your flexibility; your ability to handle adversity; your ability to bounce back quickly when things get tough. Show that you can take a setback in stride, and then move on quickly.

What additional information do you think I should have about you?

Here’s a perfect opportunity to sell yourself and your talents, tailored to this job. Be ready to present a 30-second polished “commercial” about yourself. Have the facts on what you’ve accomplished at your fingertips.

Where do you want to wind up, professionally, at the height of your career?

Again, this shows your plan for your life. It’s an ideal segue to ask about training opportunities, educational assistance, and the depth of opportunity for growth in the new department.

Tell me why you prefer to work alone (or in a group).

Be careful here; you may have to function well either way. But if you have a strong preference, say so, and why, in a positive, enthusiastic way.

How do you respond to criticism?

Being eager to learn from others is key for employees moving into a new situation. Be ready to give examples of where your work has been criticized, and how you learned valuable information from the experience.

“What led you to focus on (your career field)?”

This can help you identify your long-term focus.

“With (your work experience), what were your typical duties and tasks?”

This reveals the level of responsibility you’ve handled. Put it the best light possible.

“Tell me about your specific experience with (equipment, technology, etc.).”

This shows the depth of your knowledge or skills. Don’t try to bluff it.

“This job I've just described--what about it most appeals to you?”

Employers want to hire enthusiastic people—people with a passion day after day for what they do. Whatever turns you on about this new job—show it.

Have Your Own Questions Ready

Be ready to ask thoughtful questions that will help you to better understand the

position, the organization, the location, the working environment, department’s culture:

• Why is the position available?

• What are some of the key objectives of the job?

• What are you looking for in a strong candidate?

• How much career advancement potential is there?

• What’s a typical workday like?

• What are the skills and abilities considered necessary to do the job well?

• How is performance evaluated?

If you’re prepared to answer—and ask—questions like these—it shows you’re well informed and serious about the job. If you’d like a list of power words to use during your interview—to show you’re in charge of your job and career, just e-mail me for it.