4 Steps to nailing that interview
Whether you’re a college sophomore yearning for that first big internship or a seasoned CFO with two decades’ experience in the business, interviews are guaranteed to bring out your nerves. There is good reason for it too, “An interview is the most unique type of conversation you will ever have in your life. It truly is unlike anything else.” says Brooke Fisher, Founder & Partner at Andrews & Cole.
Why are interviews so nerve-wracking? For some, the unease comes from a lack of practice. Many of the best and brightest accounting and finance students are recruited on campus while still in school. They may spend years with the same company before interviewing again.
For others, it is fear of the unknown and unquantifiable. When it comes down to it, interviews are all about perception and impression – nuances of human communication that are subjective, but also firm. So, what does it take to stand out in an interview? After more than 26 years’ experience in the recruiting business, Nicole DelToro, Founder & President of Andrews & Cole, has it down to a science:
1. Sell yourself!
“It’s important to differentiate between the goal of the interview process and the goal of the interview,” says Nicole, “The interview process is about deciding if you want the job; the interview is about having the option to move forward if you decide to.” If you are using an interview to determine if you want the opportunity or not, your uncertainty will almost definitely come through in your answers.
2. Demonstrate your enthusiasm and excitement for the opportunity!
“The biggest pitfall of interviewing is failing to convey your interest,” says Brooke. “That impression can never be undone. People give jobs to people who want the job." To many it may sound obvious, but a surprising number of candidates feel that they should play hard to get when it comes to interviews. Would you offer a job to someone if you did not think that they wanted it?
3. Questions?
“You may only get the opportunity to ask one question,” says Nicole. “So you better make sure it’s a great one.” Nothing says “I don’t care” like having no questions at the end of an interview. You want to leave the interviewer feeling positive and excited about your potential future with the company. The idea is to ask questions that show you have thought ahead and are a collaborative team player.
4. Work with Andrews & Cole!
You may be the best accounting or finance professional in all of DC, but a strong resume will only get you so far. In fact, it will only get you as far as the interview. Andrews & Cole is the premier accounting and finance recruiting firm in the DC area, distinguished by its unique consultative approach that assures both clients and candidates of a good mutual fit. Our recruiters are ready to support your search with research conducted by the company over more than 20 years of business – and it does not cost you a penny. Even if you are not actively seeking new opportunities, there is no harm in learning about the marketplace and what options are available to you. Who knows, the next great opportunity might be just around the corner.
Why are interviews so nerve-wracking? For some, the unease comes from a lack of practice. Many of the best and brightest accounting and finance students are recruited on campus while still in school. They may spend years with the same company before interviewing again.
For others, it is fear of the unknown and unquantifiable. When it comes down to it, interviews are all about perception and impression – nuances of human communication that are subjective, but also firm. So, what does it take to stand out in an interview? After more than 26 years’ experience in the recruiting business, Nicole DelToro, Founder & President of Andrews & Cole, has it down to a science:
1. Sell yourself!
“It’s important to differentiate between the goal of the interview process and the goal of the interview,” says Nicole, “The interview process is about deciding if you want the job; the interview is about having the option to move forward if you decide to.” If you are using an interview to determine if you want the opportunity or not, your uncertainty will almost definitely come through in your answers.
2. Demonstrate your enthusiasm and excitement for the opportunity!
“The biggest pitfall of interviewing is failing to convey your interest,” says Brooke. “That impression can never be undone. People give jobs to people who want the job." To many it may sound obvious, but a surprising number of candidates feel that they should play hard to get when it comes to interviews. Would you offer a job to someone if you did not think that they wanted it?
3. Questions?
“You may only get the opportunity to ask one question,” says Nicole. “So you better make sure it’s a great one.” Nothing says “I don’t care” like having no questions at the end of an interview. You want to leave the interviewer feeling positive and excited about your potential future with the company. The idea is to ask questions that show you have thought ahead and are a collaborative team player.
4. Work with Andrews & Cole!
You may be the best accounting or finance professional in all of DC, but a strong resume will only get you so far. In fact, it will only get you as far as the interview. Andrews & Cole is the premier accounting and finance recruiting firm in the DC area, distinguished by its unique consultative approach that assures both clients and candidates of a good mutual fit. Our recruiters are ready to support your search with research conducted by the company over more than 20 years of business – and it does not cost you a penny. Even if you are not actively seeking new opportunities, there is no harm in learning about the marketplace and what options are available to you. Who knows, the next great opportunity might be just around the corner.
About Nicole DelToro: Nicole has been helping organizations (big and small) hire and retain top talent for over 26 years, while helping individuals realize their personal and professional goals by ensuring they’re working in the environment that’s ideal for their current situation. Contact her at: [email protected]
About Brooke Fisher: Brooke has over 20 years of experience working with candidates ranging from those with just 2-3 years of experience making their first move out of public accounting to Chief Financial Officers with 25+ years of experience. Contact her at: [email protected]
Andrews & Cole is a certified woman-owned boutique executive search and consulting firm with a focus on accounting and finance professionals. Clients range from start ups to Fortune 100 in nearly every industry.
About Brooke Fisher: Brooke has over 20 years of experience working with candidates ranging from those with just 2-3 years of experience making their first move out of public accounting to Chief Financial Officers with 25+ years of experience. Contact her at: [email protected]
Andrews & Cole is a certified woman-owned boutique executive search and consulting firm with a focus on accounting and finance professionals. Clients range from start ups to Fortune 100 in nearly every industry.
