Don't be fooled by the 'casual chat' trap
Interview Boss
Note-Taking and Active Listening
Hosts recommend balanced note-taking during chats and warn against overdoing it so you stay engaged and present.
You’ve been invited in for a “casual chat.” No panel, no formal questions, maybe even coffee instead of a meeting room. Sounds chill, right? Not so fast. These chats might feel relaxed, but they’re still interviews, and plenty of people get caught out by treating them like they’re not.
In this week’s episode, Sarah and Emma unpack what “just a chat” really means, when it happens in the hiring process, and why it can be even trickier than a structured interview. They’ll break down the common mistakes people make: from under-prepping to over-formalising, and share how to find that sweet spot of being prepared and personable.
You’ll learn how to tell your career story naturally, weave in your best examples without sounding rehearsed, and leave a great impression (even if it’s over lattes). Because if there’s one thing you shouldn’t be fooled by, it’s the word “casual.”
🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Caroline who bought us 2 coffees!
"I found you girls a couple of years ago and listened to the ‘listen to this right before your interview’ episode (I didn't get the job). Fast forward to a couple of months ago and I was ready to apply for another position and started relistening to most of your podcasts. I was sick and tired of telling people that I was shit at interviews. The podcasts were great but I needed more so I enrolled in Interview Academy. The timing was perfect as I applied for a position at the same time and thought if I get the interview I will be happy. I got the interview and had two weeks to prepare so I completed the course and listened to about 30 or more podcasts and finished the course during this time (2 days before the interview). This position is two levels above my current role (I work in NSW Health). I was so confident going into the interview but nervous as usual. I walked out thinking that I didn't get the job as I didn't answer some questions as well as I thought I should. Today I received a letter of offer. Now the base of the salary band is what I was expecting which is $13k more than I am currently earning. However they offered me $14k more than that. My new income is $27k more!!! Thank you sooooooooooooooooooooo much. Before listening to your podcasts I would have never in my wildest dreams applied for a job at this level. I am in shock but ecstatic!”
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