As shocking as it may seem. your interviewer has probably heard the “my biggest weakness is that I work too hard” speech. Ho do you separate yourself from the boring drones looking to impress potential families with their excessively early arrivals, monochromatic business attire and painfully nice conversation? Here are a few tips to help you turn that foot-in-the-door into the elusive place-at-the-table.
Preparation: A little research goes a long way. Don’t be afraid to study published articles and blogs or speak with friends that worked with the family in the past.
Research Your Interviewer: The family is not hiring you; rather, the person you are interviewing with is hiring you. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.
Honesty: Be yourself and avoid exaggerations on your resume. Trust us, it will get sniffed out.
Heavy Artillery: Ask questions – a lot of them. Remember that you’re interviewing the family as much as they are interviewing you.
Patience: Don’t be worried if your interviewer doesn’t call 20 minutes after you leave the interview. Both parties need to take the time to think about the hire.
Follow Up: Make sure to tell your interviewer that you want the job and always write a concise note reiterating your interest immediately following the meeting.