You returned from your interview and felt really positive. It seemed that your resume was a terrific fit. You felt that you had a connection with the interviewer and answered all her questions confidently. You spoke to HR and received positive feedback. All signs pointed to acing the interview and just waiting for the offer. So why did this job slip through your fingers?

Don’t feel disappointed or rejected. Sometimes your fit and strength for the position is mildly contributed to the reason you were not selected. The most common reasons candidates aren’t chosen include:

1.   You weren’t qualified

2.   The company is going through a hiring freeze

3.   The position was filled internally

4.   Your first impression was not so stellar

5.   You were over-qualified

6.   The company is going through restructuring

7.   The hiring team changed its vision for the role since posting the position

8.   Another candidate might have an internal connection

9.   Politics came into play

10. You were the first candidate they interviewed

So what is the missing ingredient? Cultural Fit. Why do employers focus on cultural fit and why should it matter to you? Finding the right candidate that can seamlessly mesh well with the culture of their organization improves overall corporate performance, sustain long-term growth and success and ultimately saves time and money.

As mentioned in an article titled “Recruiting for Cultural Fit” by Katie Bouton dated July 17, 2015, posted on The Harvard Business Review,

“… a 2005 analysis revealed that employees who fit well with their organization, coworkers, and supervisor had a greater job satisfaction, were more likely to remain with their organization, and showed superior job performance.”

How you answer interview questions may be the deciding factor between you and another candidate. In a behavioral interview, how you approached a variety of work situations in the past reveals your style and behavior and signals to the employer how successful you will fit in their organization.

Firms have created an environment or culture that is made up of like minded professionals who exhibit values, beliefs, underlying assumptions, attitudes and behaviors shared by a group of people. So how do you break the code? How do you get insight in “the culture”?

Hiring the right recruiter to represent you is half the battle. They have a direct line to the hiring manager, know the firm’s culture and have established a long relationship with the firm. They have the insight and can present your strengths and value to a firm, thereby giving you the edge over your competitors.

Contact Park Place Personnel now for a free consultation and let them get you on track to your next dream job 973-377-2100.