Formalities, nerves, and answers aside, there are actually only four stages to a job interview. For those OCD’s out there, take refuge knowing you can break down the process into four bite-size, easily digestible nuggets.

1. Introductions - Blow this and you now have a 40% less chance of landing the job. You never get a second chance to make a first impression. (Clean shaven, pressed shirt/pants/suit, polished shoes, etc). The interviewer will try to set a relaxed, though professional atmosphere. Again this is about first impressions, and this will set the tone for the remainder of the interview and evaluation.

2. Background review and interest identification. Most introductions will be handled by a representative from HR. He/she will describe the format for the interview process as well as whom you will be meeting with. The ensuing portion will consist of the who, what, when, where, how types of questions. Focus on what you like, what you have accomplished, your goals, and your plan for achieving those goals. Offer concise and thorough responses as the interviewer will evaluate your experience (work and education) to the stated and expected competencies of the job you are to assume.

3. Matching and Mapping begins. The interviewer will be evaluating your responses to match your interests, experience, goals, and personality to the job, team, and company objectives. This is the turning point in the interview. Don’t worry too much if the questions become increasingly difficult or probing. A GOOD SIGNAL is if the interviewer begins to describe the job. THEY ARE LOOKING FOR INTEREST! Be excited and stick to your guns. If you feel that you have to embelish or fake it, this is a good sign that you will NOT particularly like the job, company, or team you will be working with. You are interviewing them as mush as they are interviewing you. When the interviewer begins describing how you will fit into the company’s mission, you MUST ask the questions that are blaring in your head. If the interviewer is someone you will have daily contact with, and they don’t assuage your concerns, THIS IS A WARNING SIGN TO GET OUT!

4. Conclusion. The interviewer will begin to explain the next steps in the hiring process. MAKE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND THEM! If you don’t understand, ask questions. After the interviewer has addressed all of your questions one of two things will happen: 1) the interviewer will wrap up the meeting or 2) the interviewer will ask HR to wrap things up. Scenario 1: Make sure you get a list of everyone that you met with throughout the day. Thank them for your time. Scenario 2: HR will be called in to ask ‘operations’ type questions. When can you start? Salary expectations? **Note - if HR asks about salary and you have been working with a Head Hunter, defer all salary negotiations to the Head Hunter (that’s what they get paid to do - negotiate)**

5. Follow up. Send an email to everyone you met with to thank them for their time. Offer them the opportunity to contact you directly. Be polite and professional.