You Should Treat It Like a Hollywood Audition!

Going to your first interview is no different then auditioning for the the lead role in a movie, except that YOU are the one auditioning and hoping to land the next big step in your career.

Going to your first interview is no different then auditioning for the the lead role in a movie, except that YOU are the one auditioning and hoping to land the next big step in your career.

So how do you prepare for the audition? Here are 5 Audition Tips:

1) You need to have the mindset of winning. You are competing with many other people who also want the role but unfortunately only one person can win the part. You need to ask yourself “what is my competitive edge and how do I win?” Make sure your answers demonstrate and clearly express that edge.

2) Research the role you are auditioning for. Research is the key to knowing as much about the position you are auditioning for. Examples include:

Finding out what the job entails, the history and current news of the company, what the professional backgrounds of the people you are meeting with, knowing the corporate culture of the company or why the last person left the role. Make your edge SHARPER.

Between Googling and the Company’s website, you can find out all the information you need to be prepared.

3) Practice your script. As the expression goes, practice makes perfect! Stand in front of a mirror and ask yourself the typical types of questions you can expect from the interviewer. Common questions include: What makes you a great candidate for this role? What do you know about our company? What are your salary expectations? and the most difficult one: Tell us a little about yourself. Recording and listening to yourself will help too.

4) Dress the part. If you interviewing for a role that requires a corporate image, be prepared to look the part. That could mean suit, tie and shiny shoes or a white shirt and blazer with low heels.

Even if the company website looks like it is “business casual”, show the director a great first impression by looking your best. Look them in the eyes, sit up straight and be ready to present the best you because that is who they want to hire.

5) Always have a final pitch ready when asked “is there anything you would like to add?” This is your final chance to add some sizzle to your audition. This is where you are free to improvise, free of script and express who YOU are. Pull out your portfolio of awards and accomplishments. Put them on the spot by asking when you can start! Show them your references. Or leave them with something thought provoking such as why you believe you are a great investment for the company while explaining how much ROI you will create for them.

So, who knows you may become the next Tom Cruise or Julia Roberts and be a star in your next career move!!