You Don’t Matter That Much

Several job seekers approach the interview from the perspective that their feelings, goals, dreams, and desires actually matter to an employer.  A potential employer only cares about 3 things:

1.  Is this person going to earn or save me money?

2.  Is this person going to make me look good?

3.  Can I tolerate this person for 8, 10, 12 hours a day?

Especially in this market, companies do not have much concern as to what you want.   Instead of entering an interview with the belief that you are going to “interview them too”, and deceiving yourself to be on equal footing, realize that the companies hold all of the cards.  You are in no position at all to make any demands until you actually receive a job offer.  These are some of the worst things you can say in an interview:

1.  How long would I have to work in this role until I am eligible for a promotion?

2.  What kind of benefits and vacation plan do you offer?

3.  I am not really looking for that type of work.  The only position I am interested in is the one I applied for.

4.  Why do you think I should work here?

5.  I am looking for the highest offer I can get.

How many interviews have you had in the last three months?  How many offers have you received?  Change your approach from being a shill for your “excellence” to a detective sent to uncover the areas where you can add the most value.  Upon receiving a job offer, you can feel important again.