Once a week, Arras People will give one of our own expert project management careers consultants a chance to answer some of the nagging questions you have about the job process. This week, our own Nicola Thorp handles a query about getting through a second interview for a job…
Question 1: I keep getting knocked back at the second interview stage. I don’t know what I’m doing wrong. Help!
Nicola Thorp: Clearly you are doing all the right things in regards to applying for the roles; an effective CV and excellent first interview presence. You have convinced HR and the line manager you can perform the role and fit in; now it’s time to convince senior management you can add value. It is often perceived that second interviews are “just a formality” - this is not the case. Chances are there will be at least one other candidate taken forward to this stage – therefore you still have competition. At this stage in the interview process having performed presentations and completed tests it would be a shame to let all the hard work go to waste by taking a relaxed approach.
At this point you need to do extra research – use tools such as search agents and business networking sites to find out as much about the interviewer as possible. Sites such as Linkedin are exceptionally good to be able to find and research people, take a look at the background of the interviewer – how did they get to where they are? You may uncover a similar career progression, all things you can relate to in your meeting. Rely on your previous experience to convince the interviewer of your ability to add value – ensure you highlight your achievements. Project Management is all about achievements and naturally your prospective employer would like to see how you can add value through reducing waste (%) and increasing productivity (£). Ensure you prepare to demonstrate this experience through listing your achievements and running through the: How, Why, What and When questions. Don’t forget to emphasise your involvement and to articulate your understanding of the impact the project / initiative made.
Interview advice is a part of the Jobsearch Support Service for Newly Unemployed Professionals, a service offered by Arras People by way of the DWP and JobCentre Plus. For more information, click here.
