It really does help to have prior information about the interviewer and the business that you hope to work for.
Rose Reitzof IA5:46PM May 30, 2011
I think this article has some good information. I would like to add the following:
Do your due diligence before going to the interview, finding out as much as you can about the interviewer(s) through ZoomInfo and LinkedIn. On both ZoomInfo and LinkedIn you can find information about the interviewer´s background, including positions held and education. On LinkedIn you can view the groups the interviewer is a part of as well as the questions that this person has responded to. This research can really pay off as you establish rapport with the interviewer(s) based on the information that you have about them.
Cheryl Palmer
www.calltocareer.com
Cheryl Palmerof MD12:39PM May 25, 2011
Great topic. Often overlooked. A good interview is a good conversation.
An interviewer realizes that their background and interests may be researched by the interviewee ahead of time. However, try to introduce the connection through a "directed" question (you know the answer ahead of time) or remarking on something displayed in an office, rather than just saying, "Your linked-in/facebook profile says." A bit of grace can really pay off as most people would prefer to find the connection naturally, even knowing that it might have been planned ahead of time. An exception to this would be a publication of a book or article which you should ask about as it is something that they are proud of being public or a shared college or university which could easily be part of their "public" profile.
I tell my interview preparation clients that they should always be positive in their questions. If it is a thought-provoking question, make sure it is positive, i.e. "what do you like most working here"; rather than "if you could change anything what would it be?" Make the connection positive and enjoy the halo effect when they think back to their time with you!
Peggy Wallaceof CA2:28PM May 16, 2011
Great article; very helpful as I go into the job search full speed ahead! Interviews are definitely something I need to work on. I'm not good at talking about myself or having the confidence to speak confidently about a company. These are some good points to help me research and feel more confident. Thanks!
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Rose Reitz of IA 5:46PM May 30, 2011
Cheryl Palmer of MD 12:39PM May 25, 2011
Peggy Wallace of CA 2:28PM May 16, 2011
Ruth of NY 11:41AM May 16, 2011