There are two things I want to learn about a candidate from a job interview…

The Want

I want to know why you WANT to work for us.  This may sound stupid but I get a lot of people applying that don’t actually WANT the position.  Yes, I am serious.  Oh, they may not come right out and say it but I can pick up what they are putting down.  Here is how candidates tell me they don’t WANT to work for us in this position.  These are answers to my first question in every interview…. Why do you want this position with us?

• I have done this before.
• I can do this with my eyes closed.
• You all have great benefits.
• I really like the culture at your company.
• I was recently laid off.

You might be thinking that I am off my rocker.  You may think these are why someone wants the job.  Nope, this is why they are WILLING to work for us.  HUGE difference!  I want people that WANT to work here.  Their desire will get them over the hurdles and through the tough times.  Willing… not so much.

The Can

I also want to know if you CAN do the job.  This speaks to a candidate’s knowledge, skills and abilities.  It also depends on how much a company is willing to train you.  Some companies are willing to teach you everything you need to know while some need you to hit the ground running.

Unfortunately some people are unable or unwilling to do what it takes to be successful in a position.  That is also part of CAN you do the position.  This is where interviewers ask about past experience and situations you have been in.

One out of two?

All that being said, it is hard to find people that are at 100% in both areas.  If I have to gamble I will take someone with more desire over someone with more skill every day.  Desire gets you up in the morning and makes you push past where others quit.  Many of the ones that quit had the CAN, just not the WANT.

The starting point of all achievement is DESIRE. Keep this constantly in mind. Weak desire brings weak results, just as a small fire makes a small amount of heat.
Napoleon Hill