How to prepare for an interview after a layoff and during a recession.

How to prepare for an interview after a layoff and during a recession.

Interviews are stressful enough, and I know firsthand that it can feel even more stressful when you're adding a layoff and a recession to the mix.

As someone who's gone through both in the last few years, I'm here to make sure you rock the interview!

>> Here are some key differences to prepare for <<

YOUR THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS ABOUT THE SITUATION

You may feel angry, resentful, and even like you failed. It's 1,000% ok to feel that way.

>That doesn't mean you hide who you are.

>Instead, take the time to process how you feel so that you're able to show up as who you really are: A kick-ass professional who CAN do the job!

>Don't rush yourself to be ok if you're not. You want to be in control of how you show up.

THE LAYOFF/RECESSION

You will be asked about the situation, it's a given. But it doesn't have to shake you.

>Write down what you want to say.

>Summarize the key points.

>Practice it. The more you say it, the more it will start to feel like you instead of someone else.

Make sure:

-You're honest about the situation

-Don't bad mouth your former employer

-Use data and numbers to highlight results/value

-Fill in the gap and let them know what you've been doing during the transition - make sure this relates to how you can do the job and stand out

YOUR GOALS AFTER THE LAYOFF/WITH A RECESSION

> This is a temporary situation and it will not define your career success.

> Talk about your layoff in a way that supports you and highlights what you're capable of.

SAMPLE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS:

- Why are you returning to the workforce now? Is it financial, growth, social, other?

- Are you ready and excited to grow? Or do you want to step into a role similar to where you were? Are you open to taking a few steps back?

- How have you stayed qualified and competitive that would help you be successful here?

- What makes this team/company right for you given your current situation?

- What areas interest you, and which ones would you prefer to avoid? (Note the wording here and don't let it influence your communication!)

If you're going through this situation, you're not alone.