When You Should Interview For a Job You Don’t Want

By January 11, 2018For Talent

Interviews aren’t particularly pleasant experiences. Well, at least they aren’t for me. Usually, I get so nervous my legs begin to shake and I often struggle to stop fidgeting.

Which makes me wonder why anyone would go to an interview if they didn’t really (and I mean really) want the job? Well, it turns out there are a few rather good reasons.

Practice makes perfect

OK, so the job isn’t what you’re looking for and the salary isn’t up to scratch but that doesn’t mean that it is a complete dead end.

Like everything in life, practice makes perfect. A particularly dull interview is still a fantastic way to practice your interview answers like ”Tell me about yourself” and ”Where do you see yourself in five years?”. Think of it as a test run.

You might even face an interview situation that you hadn’t prepared for. Perhaps they might surprise you with an aptitude test or an unusual personality question. The more experience you have dealing with awkward situations the better prepared you will be when a better offer comes along.

Leverage

Being pursued by another company can be a great boost to your self-esteem. It will also give you a sense of your value in the marketplace. Use an interview opportunity to gauge what the working conditions are like at other companies. You will then be able to negotiate your own terms better.

For example, this new company may be offering you a 5k salary increase and flexible hours. You will be able to use this information to leverage a better deal with your current employer. Just make sure that you don’t appear ungrateful or cocky. It’s a negotiation, not a threat.

Expand your contacts

Going to interviews can help you to rapidly expand your network. Even if you don’t end up liking the role, the HR Manager may keep you in mind for upcoming gigs within the company (if you make a good first impression of course!).

During your interview mention that you would be interested in keeping in touch to discuss other upcoming roles that would be in line with your skill set. Follow the company’s Jobbio channel to stay up to date on future job postings.

Never judge a book by its cover

The job description sounds pretty boring on paper but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it will suck in real life. Appearances could be deceiving. Go to the interview with an open mind. Ask about the day-to-day duties and suss out the company culture.

A job that appears dull from the outside could be full of exciting challenges and enviable work perks. If you don’t try you’ll never know. Don’t waste a brilliant opportunity.


Find your dream job today.


Author Alice Murray

Alice Murray is a Content Creator at Jobbio with a passion for Employer Branding and Graduate Culture. She's a keen traveller and a self-proclaimed lazy runner.

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