Interview Strategy: Running your job search like your sales pipeline

No surprise, it’s a competitive job market. Relying on a well-formatted resume isn’t likely to yield your desired results. Nowadays, going above and beyond is the norm, and putting yourself in a position where you stand out from the crowd is a must. 

In our panel discussion "Interview Strategy" our panelists Hayli Thornhill (Shipped Talent), Whitney Ellison (Udemy) and Katie Capuzzo (WISE) shared ways you can nail your job search. 

Here are some key takeaways to guide you in your professional journey.

Align your resume to the job description.

It’s a competitive market and many companies are utilizing AI in some capacity to scan applications. Use the JD as a guide for adding the same keywords to your resume, so you’re helping the software see that your skillset is a match.

To connect or not to connect?

Connect! Going above and beyond to show your interest by connecting with potential interviewers and sending a brief note will never hurt your chances. Also try starting conversations with current employees in similar roles and see if they have an internal referral program.

Know your story.

Whether your interview is a phone screen or final stage conversation, be prepared to speak to your experience, interest in the role/company and abilities that will make you excel (curiosity, coachability, resilience, strategic thinking). Remember to balance detail with succinctness by practicing the STAR Method, and always have questions prepared for your interviewer!

Run your job search like your sales process.

Research the company and your interviewers (Glassdoor, Reddit, Linkedin), do thorough discovery by asking relevant questions for each interviewer (ex: HR/recruiters are better suited to answer benefits-related questions, where as hiring managers can get into the tactical day-to-day of the role), and have a clear CTA by setting next steps. Thank you notes still work! Make them count by highlighting your interest and showcasing your alignment with the role.

Like a sales process, a job search requires preparation and persistence. You’ve got this!

Need some career advice? Ask our experts at advice@womeninsaleseverywhere.com. 

Want to learn more? You can stream the full event recording here (note around 7:50 the video freezes momentarily).

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Thank you to all our WISE partners who made this event possible and our panelists for sharing their time and advice. 

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