In the professional world we are all individuals working in different circumstances and so the hiring managers are. Ideally they are expected to be Mr. Perfect for the employer and the candidate but in real world story is little bit different. Most of the aspiring candidates generally come across a highly inexperienced, unprofessional, unfocused, and unskilled person.
Still, you have to be in the race as your final mission is to get the job only. There are some basics which ensure that your meeting with any of such hiring managers goes well in your favor and it does not spoil your chances of getting the job. Let's take a look at such possible encounters:
He is new:
Yes, we are talking about the first timers. They are as nervous as you are or may be more than you but they manager to hide their emotions. These managers generally keep the fix track of questions and never deviate because they are not the subject matter specialists. They will never let you go into the subject details of your profession. So, you are also advised to maintain the same track and answer their question one by one. Don't add anything until they ask about some specific insight into your previous assignments. The bottom line is- let them feel in control of the interview.
He is reserve:
These managers are silent type and prefer speaking very little and to the point only. They will not let you open up the dialogue regarding the position or the company itself as they don't find it comfortable. Since they speak very little they would also like you to speak their language. So, if you are looking for some additional details then get it from some other sources, but don't upset them.
He is talkative:
These managers are till talk to you for hours repeating same questions and sharing their personal experiences. They will gladly provide you every bit of information you want from them and in return ask you many questions too. This interview will go in many directions and will prove longer than you would have anticipated. Advice is very simple- be patient. Whatever is the case just continue to pay close attention on the conversation after all today is the day of your interview only. And finally, when leaving, don't forget to oblige the person by thanking for meeting with you.
He is distracted:
Distracted interviewers do all the things, except one, taking interview. They will check the emails, reply the phone calls, read the messages but are not focused on taking interview. Sometimes they are also continuously disturbed by their subordinates, colleagues or seniors for their attention. They might be the subject specialist but are hardly able to pay any attention on your resume and even on you. The best way is to ask them politely if you can come back for this interview some other time.
He is hostile:
Probably the worst, hostile interviewers are rude in nature and show disregard for everything in you and your resume. They will create anxiety and stress in the environment. They will directly tell you the over expectations of the company from you, if hired. They will make it very clear that you may have to sacrifice your weekends very frequently. He will also let you know that you could be burdened with more additional responsibilities than just explained to you in the interview. Well, be alert, this could be a part of the "stress interview" which is conducted to check the candidates' ability to respond in the pressure. If this is not the case then thankfully you are well warned in advance to consider your choice.
It is almost impossible to prepare your interview according to each personality type. It is in the situation only when you have to decide your course of action. After all we meet all type of such people in our day to day life. Just use your experience and judgment ability if you like it or don't like it. Always remember that interviews are not one way street. If you don't find it in your favor then of course you can always use it in your favor.
