The Interview Expert: How to Get the Job You Want

The Interview Expert: How to Get the Job You Want by John Lees is a comprehensive guide to succeeding in job interviews. Lees, a career coach and author with over 20 years of experience, provides practical advice and strategies for every stage of the interview process, from preparation to follow-up. 

The book begins with an overview of the job market and the hiring process, providing insights into how employers evaluate candidates and what they look for in a successful candidate. Lees explains the importance of researching the company and the position and provides practical tips for gathering information and identifying key areas of focus for the interview. 

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of effective communication during the interview process. Lees provides practical advice on how to convey confidence and competence through verbal and non-verbal communication, including tips on how to use body language to convey authority and how to structure responses using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method. 

Throughout the book, Lees provides practical tips and strategies for answering common interview questions, as well as advice on how to handle difficult or unexpected questions. He provides examples of strong responses and offers guidance on how to tailor your responses to the specific needs of the employer and the position. 

In addition to providing advice on answering questions, Lees also emphasizes the importance of asking questions during the interview. He provides practical guidance on how to ask insightful questions that demonstrate your interest in the position and your understanding of the company and the industry. 

Another important theme of the book is the importance of follow-up after the interview. Lees provides practical advice on how to follow up with the employer, including tips on how to write effective thank-you notes and how to stay in touch with the employer during the decision-making process. 

Throughout the book, Lees draws on his extensive experience as a career coach and trainer, providing real-life examples and anecdotes to illustrate key points and highlight common mistakes that candidates make during the interview process. 

Overall, "The Interview Expert" is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their interviewing skills and land their dream job. Lees' emphasis on effective communication, preparation, and follow-up, combined with practical tips and strategies, make this book a comprehensive guide to succeeding in interviews. This book provides actionable advice that can help you stand out from the competition and land the job you want. 

The 5 key takeaways from this book 

1. Preparation is Essential: Research the company, its culture, and the role you're applying for. Familiarise yourself with the job description and requirements. Prepare responses to common interview questions and practice your delivery. Being well-prepared enables you to confidently articulate your qualifications and suitability for the position. 

2. Tailor Your Message: Customise your answers to demonstrate how your skills and experiences directly address the organisation's challenges and goals. By showcasing your understanding of the company's specific needs, you position yourself as a valuable asset. 

3. Show Your Fit: The book stresses the importance of demonstrating cultural fit during an interview. Highlight your values, work style, and personality traits that align with the company's culture. Showcase your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation and convey how you can contribute to the team dynamics. Employers often seek candidates who not only possess the required skills but also mesh well with the existing team. 

4. Showcase Your Achievements: Provide specific examples of how you contributed to previous projects or initiatives and the impact you made. Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible to showcase your ability to deliver results. By demonstrating a track record of success, you increase your credibility as a candidate. 

5. Develop Rapport and Ask Engaging Questions: Listen actively and ask thoughtful questions that showcase your interest in the role and demonstrate your understanding of the organisation. Engaging in a two-way conversation allows you to establish a connection with the interviewer and gain deeper insights into the company.