The key to the interview? Take notes.

I'm excited about starting my new job tomorrow. I wasn't actually planning to switch jobs, but the opportunity presented itself for me to interview. How did I get the job? Well, I am talented and exactly what they needed, but the thing that always separated me from the crowd is the fact that I spent most of my interview listening, asking questions about the challenges they are facing, and taking copious notes.

The interview process is a two way street. The potential employer is judging you on how you will help them solve their problems, and you're judging them on how much you can align with their values. Too many people think that they have no say in the interview process. If you take detailed notes, you can deflect hard questions that you may not have answers to the required job description and expectations.

I kept an interview notebook, which is shown in this article's photo. Each interview I had has at least one (1) temporary badge, along with at least 3 pages of notes. Before you can sell yourself, you need to fully understand what your potential employer needs. Every interview I had, I took notes... not a single time did my interviewer question my decision.

Take notes. Listen. Ask questions. Approach every interview as an opportunity to better understand what the market needs.

I have 3 badges in that notebook. And I'm still in contact with the two hiring managers who didn't hire me. I obviously made an impact.

Starting tomorrow, guess what I'm going to do. TAKE NOTES. Ask if I can record the sessions, make sure I am the person who understands what it takes to help them solve their problem.

PROTIP: I'm going to take notes on my Surface using OneNote. It's the way you can take notes without looking like you're too busy on your laptop to pay attention. Happy 2019 everyone!