What do you know about our company?

by Mitch Byers :: October 10th, 2007 :: Posted in Interviewing to Win |

Have you every been embarrassed in the interview with the question, “What do you know about our company?” It can be one of those make or break questions – a turning point in the interview. Your answer can lead to an in-depth discussion and enable you to ask your pressing questions. Or you can just sit in your chair, turn red and sink. I like the first option better.

Think of the hiring process in terms of a baseball game. You have to get to first base before you can reach second base. You have to round third base before you score at home. In the interview game, consider the invitation to interview as your time to bat. If you run the bases and make it back home you score – that is, you are hired.

Unfortunately, most people strike out, pop up or are thrown out at first. They end up playing in the minor leagues. Investing time in company research and uncovering their business needs put you on first base. That is a good start. Investing significant time in interview preparation allows you to safely steel second base. Once on second base, you are in “scoring position.” It only takes one more hit (a second interview) to move you around to third and then to home. You have just made the score!!

Investigating the company and honing your interviewing skills will help build your confidence.

Batter up.