Home > Jean, job search > ASK FOR THE JOB

ASK FOR THE JOB

September 18th, 2016 Leave a comment Go to comments

I had the great pleasure of speaking on how to ace your interviews last week in West Hartford at the Schmoozer’s Networking Group. We covered many aspects of this unpredictable process, from how to prepare, to making sure your body language reinforces your message. But one thing, that I learned from a client of mine a few years back, we didn’t have time to cover. And that is to ask for the job.

In Chapter 28 of my interview book, “Closing the Deal”, I tell Elliott’s story. Here’s a shortened version. Elliott writes:  “At the end of the interview, I generally close by first stating that I am extremely interested in the position and sometimes bluntly stating that I want the position….When the hiring manager tells me that he or she has: (a) just stated the process, (b) is looking at a number of other candidates…I directly (with a big smile on my face) ask the hiring manager what it would take to persuade him or her right now that I am the right candidate.”

Has  your blood pressure just spiked? This is not easy. But Elliott learned that it was an effective way from him to demonstrate confidence and interest in the job, and it worked. He went from being the “almost candidate” to getting an offer. So in your own words and your own style, see if you can find a way to tell the person interviewing you, “I’d really like this job.” And of course, in your previous answers you’ve provided proof that you can do the job, and your physical energy shows you’re excited about it, so this is really just the icing on the cake. Give it a try. What do you have to lose?interview-back-cover-hand-shake

Categories: Jean, job search Tags:
  1. Linda MacMillan
    September 19th, 2016 at 08:33 | #1

    Hi Jean,

    Great discussion.

    I’m a firm believer in presenting a clear case for my experience, capabilities and interest in a position, as well as asking for the job. I’ve done it a number of times, and it has been well received and successful.

    I have actively volunteered for two nonprofits to show my interest and expertise for their opportunities, and was offered positions in both situations. By doing so, I was helping the organizations to visualize me as the candidate in the role.

    And, if the opening has any connection to sales, marketing, development, fundraising or public relations, this experience should seal the deal for the hiring manager.

    Thanks for all your expert advice, Jean. Linda

    • Jean
      September 19th, 2016 at 08:36 | #2

      Thanks, Linda. Your comments are the best! Jean