Richard Bolles' Tips on Job Interviews



The job search can often feel like a daunting expedition, filled with uncertainty and the fear of rejection. Yet, Richard Bolles redefines this journey in What Color Is Your Parachute?, transforming it from an intimidating quest to a path of self-discovery and empowerment. Below is a quick recap of Chapter 9 titled "Fifteen Tips About Your Job Interview."

Bolles imparts a crucial paradigm shift surrounding the ever-so-anxiety-inducing job interviews: they are not interrogations but conversation, a mutual exchange to assess fit on both sides. Bolles encourages job-seekers to enter interviews with the mindset of equals, considering not only how they can contribute but also whether the organization can support their growth and satisfaction. This perspective shifts the power dynamic, reminding the reader that while employers choose their employees, employees too choose their employers.

The strategy extends beyond self-reflection to practical steps like informational interviewing. This technique is akin to reconnaissance, offering insights into a company's culture and the daily realities of a potential role. Informational interviews are a proactive approach to understand the lay of the land, enabling informed decisions rather than mere leaps of faith. Especially now with Gen Z entering the workforce, a positive culture that meshes well with your own values seems ever more prized.

Bolles emphasizes the dual nature of interviews. They are not only opportunities to showcase competencies but also to evaluate the potential workplace. This two-way street approach ensures that the job-seeker remains an active participant in shaping their career path, not a passive bystander.

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