In a recent Spartan Up! podcast they talked about how any interaction with another person is a two-way streak. You need to ask yourself “what do they value?” This is very important in the interview process. You need to put yourself in the recruiter or hiring manager’s shoes and ask that question.
Some things may be generally valued by most organizations: honesty, timeliness, innovation, attention to detail, etc… How do these play into the interview process?
Honesty
Don’t get caught lying. Even an out of date resume sends up warning flags. If your resume says that you are still currently in your job then you tell me “oh, no. I left there a month ago.” That is no bueno
Timeliness
You’ve heard it: If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late. If you’re late, don’t bother showing up. If you are going to be late call BEFORE you are late!
Innovation
Be ready to talk about your creative solution to a problem at work. Or better yet, I like seeing that you have done your research on the company and uncovered some interesting things to ask about. “I see that many of the people in the Sales Development Department, like me, have been sales managers in the past. How do you feel that contributes to their success in their current position?”
Attention to detail
I already mentioned being sure that your resume is up to date. Do your best to remember names. Also be sure to write thank you / follow-up emails to everyone you meet with.
But you ask “What about values that are unique to each company?” One word… GOOGLE. For instance, if want to work at Regions Bank. GOOGLE “Regions Bank Core Values” BOOM!
Things like that can help you tailor your answers to each company. You can also work them into your questions. “I noticed that putting people first is your first core value. How is that displayed in Branch Banking?” Remember, the interview is more about what they want than about what you want. Think of it as a consultative sale.
Al
Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make man a more clever devil.
C. S. Lewis