How do you turn a stressful job interview into a relaxed conversation, while showing off yourself? Advice from our columnist, from the Montreal firm My Little Big Web.
Unfortunately, all professions convey stereotypes and that of web developer is not spared. Indeed, the biggest cliché from which web developers suffer is that they are, supposedly, all “geeks”: shy, introverts, who spend their day behind a screen and who have no communication skills. .
If you are a developer, you know for a fact that this is wrong and that you are much more than that! But sometimes, it’s difficult to make it clear to the HR manager who is conducting your interview for the job you want to land knowing that he undoubtedly has certain received ideas.
So here are 5 tips to know how to sell well for the job of web design and developer.
1. Think about your interlocutor and adapt your CV
Usually, the people who will interview you are human resources managers who do not necessarily have web development knowledge. This is reason is that why it is important adapt your presentation and your CV accordingly.
Indeed, if you bombard the person with very technical computer terms, there is a good chance that you will lose their attention and therefore their interest in you. Instead, mention above all the skills mentioned in the job offer to which you are applying, for example by mentioning a relevant experience Where those skills are learned or developed.
Try to be as straightforward as you can, even if that means rephrasing. The simple fact that the terms of the ad are used will not only help the recruiter to understand your strengths and skills in a practical way, but he will also recognize that you are completely in line with his standards. Additionally, your ability to rephrase and describe your abilities will also show your ability to relate to both machines and human beings.
2. Highlight what separates you from other developers
We love the difference at My Little Big Internet! Within a day, the recruiter will typically have more than one interview to fill in for the same role.
It is your uniqueness that will be a game changer. Demonstrating it and demonstrating what it will offer to the business you want to work for is the secret to every interview. Knowing the difference and bringing it forward to stand out and hold recruiters’ attention, is up to you. This distinction can be a characteristic of character, a method of work that is special to you, a rewarding experience you have had, or even a defining event in your life that has taught you important things.
Your distinction could also be one or more skills not inherently related to IT creation but also adding to your value, such as mastering foreign languages, mastering video editing or learning sales techniques from previous experience.
Once you’ve put your finger on what makes you different, put it forward! Whether in your CV or during your interview, mention this difference with conviction and emphasize what your difference will bring to the company. If, however, you still cannot find it, do not hesitate to ask the recruiter what type of profile he is looking for for the position, this may bring up several of your experiences that you can talk about to prove to him that you are made for the job.
3. Show your openness and proactivity
Among the qualities often mentioned in web developer job offers, we often find curiosity, the ability to keep up to date or openness to change.
These three qualities are very important indeed because, we know very well that the world of the Web evolves permanently and daily. So, before your interview (and this will also be useful throughout your career), remember to read the latest news in your industry: have there been any new updates? The arrival of new software relevant to your business? New techniques developed? etc… In short, be aware! This will show your recruiter that you are interested in innovation, that you are open to change, that you like to implement and test new things.
4. Highlight your creations / projects in terms of results (quantified or visual)
Talking about your experience is good. Talking about it in terms of results is much better.
For example, instead of explaining that you worked for Google for X years in department X, explain instead that you participated in a project by managing to cut costs by 25% or that you managed to complete the project one time. week in advance. Select one or two examples from your personal or professional experience where your participation has helped to improve the results of the project. This will testify to your qualities to the recruiter who will remember your memorable and successful experience rather than that of another.
Plus, if you’ve created websites, apps, or anything else that has visual support, show your job to your recruiter! Do not hesitate to share your most beautiful creations to showcase yourself. This allows him to see the quality of your work before hiring you, which he will greatly appreciate!
5. Don’t be passive!
This advice applies to any interview, in all sectors of activity, but it is essential, especially for a web developer who wants to put an end to the preconceived ideas associated with his profession.
Don’t be passive during the interview. Don’t just answer the questions you are asked. Join the conversation by asking questions yourself. Show that you are interested in the company and the recruiter by simple questions on current projects or projects already completed, for example: “I saw on your website that the company took part in this competition. What was it? Have you won an award? “,” How long have you worked here? How would you describe the working atmosphere? “. Here are examples of questions that demonstrate your interest in the company and at the same time show your ability to communicate.
Job interviews are never easy, for all sectors of activity. In addition to the stress of having to find a job, we are subject to the recruiter’s judgment, which is not always pleasant. You must therefore learn to sell yourself well and to overcome the received ideas of your interlocutor to succeed in convincing him.
If you apply these five tips, you will find that the interview will be much more relaxed and conversational rather than stressful and questionable. You will be more comfortable putting yourself forward.
The Digital Hub 