Over the last 30 years in business I have had the opportunity to hire incredible people and known the struggle of having to fire others. This position of making these types of decisions has given me a perspective on interviewing that has allowed me to create what I call “The Dream Interview” or LSDD. It’s my secret recipe for getting the job amidst a pool of other applicants that I’ve shared with my own kids and close friends through the years. 

And you know what? Every time my kids have used the LSDD interview method they’ve gotten the job. 

Why? Because I know myself that if someone came in for an interview with me and said these things, I would struggle not to offer them the job on the spot. Having made the hard choices in the past that led to employees being let go, I can say with confidence that it is never an enjoyable experience. With that being said, I know that a key to getting hired is making it clear that you will not be the kind of employee that will need to be fired. 

On average, there are 118 people who are going for the same job you are, and of that group, only 23% will be brought in for an interview. When you get in the room for that interview you have one chance to make an impression that will land you the job, using this simple framework allows you to do just that. 

The Dream Interview

LSDD is an acronym for the four key points that every employer wants to hear. I’m going to break down the four points and then give you an example you can go off of to make your own.

Loyalty

When it comes to hiring, employers want to know that they are finding someone who is not only in it for the paycheck, but because they want to be a member of the team they are applying for. You want to make it clear to the interviewer that you are a team player who will make it your priority to see the common goals of the company come to fruition. Through thick and thin, you will be there to make the company a better place. 

Showing Up

Dependability is an invaluable attribute for any employee to display. Making it clear that you are someone who can be taken at your word and will follow through on promises from the start gives you a leg up. Words are only the beginning, but the interview is your chance to make it clear that you prioritize being an employee that can be depended on. 

Drama Free

A team relies on everyone working together and doing so with respect and collaboration. Anyone who is coming in as a new member has to be willing, and more importantly able, to work with others. From the jump it’s important to make it clear that you are a team player and that you value collaboration. Dispel the fear before it even comes up and be up front about the fact that you will not be the one to cause division in the workplace. 

Do What is Expected

You are applying to this job because you know that you are capable of doing what is expected of you and even doing your best to exceed expectations. Not only are you a dependable person, but you are someone who will put in the effort necessary to get your work done and do so with creativity and enthusiasm. 

So how do you make all of this clear during an interview?

The point will come in any interview where the floor is yours to “talk a little bit about yourself” and that is your moment to make an impact. Using all four of these points I’m going to give you an example of what that moment of impact can look like.

You can make it your own, but here is an example of LSDD in full:

_____________ let me be clear, I want this job.

And if given this opportunity, I will be loyal to you, and loyal to this company.

I will always have your back.

And I’m going to show up everyday.

You put me on that schedule, and you can always count on me to be there.

And you’ll get  110% of me ready to win everyday.

And I’m going to be drama free. I’m going to try to make your life as easy as possible.

And in the end, I will do what is expected of me, show some creativity, try to exceed your expectations, and look for your leadership along the way to guide me.

Your interview is your one shot to make an impression, and using this LSDD system allows you to cover all of the most important bases. Be the employee you would want to hire and make it clear that you will not be the employee that has to be fired.

Lead Well,