Learning to speak assertively is critically important to the success of your interviews.
One question I get asked a lot is, "Is it OK to blow my horn in employment interviews?"
The answer is YES. It's not only OK to blow your own horn, it's essential! You see, if you're lucky enough to get employment interviews with the person who could be your next boss, you get one shot only. So you better be right on target. That means you can't afford to be a wimp!
Recent reports have pointed out there are 8 common barriers to not wanting to blow your own horn:
1. You've been taught that it isn't polite to show off.
2. You don't want to be seen as taking all the credit.
3. You feel that your business is no one else's concern.
4. You've been discouraged from taking credit for individual performance. You're part of a team.
5. You haven't had to use assertiveness very often.
6. You're not in the habit of taking credit for your accomplishments.
7. You don't want to sound egotistical.
8. You don't like it when others brag. You don't want to sound like them.
Look, the first thing you need to understand is that you don't get hired on the basis of a resume. No one will offer you a job until you've met face-to-face with the hiring decision-maker.
So, how you present yourself in person will determine whether or not you get the job. And believe me, passively and politely answering questions doesn't get it.
So, here are three steps that can help you prepare to come across like a pro:
1. Get your ducks in a row. Write down the specific talents and capabilities your bring to the table. Do not dwell exclusively on your work history. Rather, focus on values, work ethic and philosophy.
2. Write a script that details how you'll present yourself to a prospective employer. Remember, first impressions count BIG! If you stumble around and can't look an interviewer in the eye, you just lost. You must be prepared to speak with authority.
3. Practice what to say with friends. Let them ask you tough questions so you can learn to respond intelligently without getting rattled.
Employment interviews frquently use standard questions. But your opportunity to shine comes when you assertively represent your values and work style as it applies to adding to the bottom line. That's when you get an employer to sit up and pay attention to you.
