Almost Got the Job?

I am currently preparing for the final phone interview for an opportunity at executive level. This is the first viable opportunity I have found since being laid off months ago so they need to be convinced that I am the right candidate. What can I do to convince them?

If you have made it to the final interview they are obviously satisfied with the hard data gathered so far from you, your resume, and your references. At this stage they are looking for you to fit the intangible factors like culture and team. There's not a lot you can do to drastically alter their perception of you. If you show up desperate to convince them to hire you, they will sense something inauthentic about you. Desperation can show up in your mannerisms and demeanor as untrusting or domineering.

Prepare, relax, and do your honest best in the interview, but don't try to convince them. You've heard "work like you don't need the money." Now it's time to "interview like you don't need the job."

When I got laid off earlier this year I left the area and returned home where I thought job opportunities would be better. After a short time a friend who started his own company hired me. The problem is, I would like to stay in touch with my former colleagues but I have to try not to talk about my new position. I love the job but I don't want to rub it in.

Stay in touch. Talk about your new position and share your tips on landing a job. Tell them to take risks, to not be afraid to relocate, network, and contact old colleagues and friends. You can be a good support to them right now and I am sure that they will find your success encouraging. There is a lot they could learn from you.