Job Interviewing and the Blind Date

There are several similarities between dating andthe interviewer know she had similar experiences.
interviewing. Observing two scenarios - Bob's blindStories are the proof that you have "been there and
date and Judy's first interview demonstrates somedone that." Stories reveal patterns.
behaviors in either situation that are positive and6. Red lights blinking warning!
negative. Imagine Bob in the interviewer role in the blindBob's date begins to talk about her ex-boyfriend in a
date situation and Jane as the candidate in the jobnegative way.
scenario.Jane left her last job because of her boss. She avoids
1. Before the interview thinkingsaying anything negative.
Bob: "I really need someone in my life and I am willingOn a date, or in an interview, it is best not to
to take anyone who is a warm body."bad-mouth former relationships.
Jane: "I really need a job - I'm so desperate, I'll take7. Introduction to the "family"
anything."Bob is excited about introducing his date to friends and
"Desperation vibes" can be spotted at first site.family.
Avoided by staying focused on the experience andJane is given a tour and introduced to potential peers.
not the result.The next level is to meet the other members - friends,
2. The first impression - chemistryfamily, co-workers. Don't under-estimate the impact of
Bob feels the connection with his date - "She is"third party" feedback.
exactly what I have been looking for."8. The competition
Jane gets a negative feeling from the interviewer -Bob continues observes his date and mentally
stiff and formal.compares her with others.
Chemistry is felt and an opinion is formed in the firstJane is told that there are five candidates for the job.
few minutes of a meeting, based on appearance, andShe starts to panic, thinking that all the other
body language.candidates are probably more qualified than she is.
3. Getting to know each otherFaulty thinking about the competition is a mistake. You
Bob watches and listens intently to confirm his firstare unique and should be able to convey your
opinion of his date.strengths and positive qualities.
Jane can feel the interview turning around as she9. The call back - the waiting
answers the questions with specific examples of herBob says he will phone about another date.
past successes.The interviewer tells Jane that the hiring decision will be
First impressions are not always the final ones. Bothmade next week.
processes are conversations to learn if there is aWaiting for a call is one of the most difficult parts of
match.either process. Trust in the process and let whatever
4. Questions - similarities, differences, values, qualitiesis going to happen occur.
Bob has a million questions he wants to ask. "Do you10. The offer/commitment
like music, dancing, movies? Italian food?"Bob calls for a second date and she accepts. Time will
Jane is asked if she has questions. She answers, "No, Itell whether that original spark will continue or fizzle.
think you've covered the basics."Jane waits two weeks for her call back. She is
You need information to decide whether to take thisoffered the position and accepts.
relationship to the next level.Not every date will end in a commitment or even a
5. Past experiences storiessecond date. Not every interview will end in a job
Bob is learning about his date by the stories she isoffer. Sometimes it just doesn't work - for whatever
telling about her past experiences.reason. Let go and move forward.
Jane gives specific examples of her past work, lettingThere will be other dates and other interviews.