About using "FOR EXAMPLE"

About using "FOR EXAMPLE"

"FOR EXAMPLE" is the most important phrase in your job interview
arsenal. Don't be afraid of using it frequently as a part of the answer
to every question! The more examples you can provide of specific
instances where you have demonstrated the characteristics Hiring
Managers are looking for – your ability to fill their needs – the more
likely you will be hired.

There are two things to be said about using "FOR EXAMPLE," however.

First, don't overdo it on the examples. You only need to provide
enough examples to satisfy the interviewer, or basically instill the
confidence that you will be successful in filling their needs. Don't
oversell yourself by giving too many examples! Watch for cues that the
interviewer is satisfied that your examples back up your statements or
claims. You should also ask questions to probe the effectiveness of the
answer.

Ask questions like:

· Does that make sense? You follow me? Is that a good example?
· Have I addressed that 100% to your satisfaction?
· Does that answer your question about "X"?
· Do you think that my experience with that type of situation
would be relevant to my work here?
· I think that's the kind of experience you are looking to bring to
your team, isn't it?
· You would agree that my skills in that area would help me
succeed here, wouldn't you?
Most importantly, when you use "FOR EXAMPLE," make sure your
examples are specific, measurable, and relevant. You are telling a
story. You need to PAINT THE PICTURE. Be specific. Use people's
names. Give background info on clients and colleagues, and indicate
your role and involvement.

Make the situation as relevant to the Hiring Manager's work as
possible and use terms and ideas he or she can understand and relate
to. Give dates and measurable information and statistics relating to
the time and money you have saved by deploying your Behavioral
Competencies on the job. Use gestures and pauses – and don't be
afraid of drawing simple charts or diagrams on paper or on a white
board. Practice telling these stories! It is your examples or "stories"
that people relate to, and it is your examples and stories that will get
you hired. Show, don't tell!