This is my FAVORITE piece of advice that has helped me land jobs with Electronic Arts, Spotify. and Epic Games.
Interviews can often feel like one-sided interrogations, where we are simply answering questions without much engagement. However, transforming the interview into a dialogue can be a highly effective strategy for creating a more comfortable and interactive atmosphere. By inserting questions and seeking clarifications throughout the conversation, we not only demonstrate interest in the role but also showcase communication skills and critical thinking abilities while making the exchange far more pleasant for both sides
One of the primary benefits of fostering a discussion during an interview is that it allows us as candidates to gain a deeper understanding of the role and the company.
When we ask clarifying questions, we uncover more about the expectations, team dynamics, and the organization’s culture.
For example, if an interviewer describes a specific project, a candidate might ask, “Can you elaborate on the challenges your team faced during that project?” This not only provides valuable insights but also shows the interviewer that the candidate is engaged and thinking critically about the information presented.
Moreover, encouraging dialogue can help build rapport between us and the interviewer. When we actively participate in the conversation by asking questions or sharing relevant experiences, it creates a collaborative atmosphere that can make the interview feel more like a partnership than an evaluation. This interaction can leave a lasting impression, as interviewers are more likely to remember candidates who contributed thoughtfully to the discussion.
Additionally, transforming the interview into a discussion allows us to showcase personality and communication style. By asking questions and sharing insights, we can highlight our enthusiasm for the role and the company, making us more memorable to interviewers. It also provides an opportunity to address any potential concerns proactively. For instance, if we feel unsure about a particular requirement, we can inquire about its importance, demonstrating their willingness to learn and adapt.
This is something I've so rarely seen and really want to see more candidates do as I've seen nothing but positive feedback from interviewers when candidates can successfully do this!