Preparing for an interview? Danielle McCallum, MBA ’19 shares her advice on how to impress and have success.
It’s not always the person with the most skills who wins the interview: it’s the one who markets themselves best. The more you can understand the company’s needs and how you can address them, the more effectively you’ll stand out. Preparing thoroughly allows you to tailor your responses and demonstrate why you’re the perfect fit.
It’s a Two-Way Street: If you’ve made it to the interview, it means they already see potential in you. Now it’s about showing them what makes you stand out and figuring out if this role is right for you. Start by diving into the job description and researching the company. Then, ask questions like, “What are the top three priorities for this role in the first six months?” This will help you see if your strengths align with their needs. Plus, it’s important to find out if their work environment is somewhere you’ll thrive.
Know Your Value: Be ready to talk about what makes you unique and how your experience can make a big impact. A good trick is to identify the top three must-haves from the job description and focus on how your skills fit those. When you can show that you’re not only qualified but can help the company reach its goals, you’ll leave a lasting impression.
Leverage Technology: Use digital tools to get a better sense of the company. LinkedIn is great for checking out who’s interviewing you and what the company’s been posting. Glassdoor can help you understand the company’s culture and what to expect in the interview. You can also practice common interview questions with ChatGPT. And remember, it’s a two-way street: the company is likely researching your digital presence and may even use AI tools to assess your fit. Make sure your online profiles reflect who you are and the value you can bring.”
Danielle McCallum ’19 MBA is an accomplished marketing leader with over a decade of experience in healthcare fintech. She has led cross-functional teams and driven impactful marketing strategies at companies like Solutran and Optum Financial Services. Passionate about collaboration and innovation, Danielle has launched successful products and spearheaded initiatives that significantly boosted consumer engagement. She remains active in professional organizations where she mentors others and continues to grow as a leader.
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