I never understood in movies how people made comments about dating lives after marriage (probably because I haven’t yet married, but thats besides the point)… You hear things like “I haven’t done this in so long!” or “I never though I would be out on the market again.” see (n): Elizabeth Taylor
Sadly, I am starting to understand how those phrases come into play when one re-enters the work force. Those remarkable How to interview books for Dummies seem to fade far, far into the distance as the daily tasks of the job take over. When put on the spot, are you prepared to answer such questions as “Why you are best for the job?” …dang, I just figured out what the job is and now you want me to answer that!? After 4 new first dates interviews with various verticals, personalities and positions, I am starting to believe that getting back in the saddle takes practice.
Question:
Like any new courting stage that involves myself, I am brutally honest. Some may say this is a character fault when trying to impress a potential employer. However the more I experience, the more I feel this “straight shooter” attitude eliminates problems after the honeymoon stage.
Things I really enjoy about a first interview:
1. REALLY difficult questions: I find myself often not knowing the answer right away, but instead, talking myself (out-loud) through the logical response. Typically (and this of course is a percentage), I am pretty impressed with the end result of my logic. I hope the other party is as well…
2. Eye contact: Not sure why this is such a hard one for people to comprehend. Eye contact says, “I am serious about you and I believe in my organization.”
3. Business challenges: I think it’s great when you can talk opening about the challenges of your business and how the next potential employee will help solve those challenges. This is really when my brain starts ticking and can get into the game!
All and all, I think the interview can often be overlooked as a one sided interrogation. As the interviewee, you are just as entitled to asking the hard questions as the interviewer. I think if you don’t come away with some questions, you probably haven’t been paying attention to the real job and it’s objectives.
Shout outs to:
1. Romina: my college roomie for the last minute interview opportunity that made me drive 4 hours to Fort Lauderdale for a 23 hours stay.
2. Email domains: for allowing me to super internet stalk a potential employer by finding out their website and in turn, phone number, extension, job title and location so I could call and setup an interview for myself.
3. Cedar plank: how I love the flavor you add to my Salmon fillet dinner. mmmmmmmm 
What'cha thinkin?