Job interviews tend to be dry and dull. You’re trying to be professionalism and focused and qualified. And sometimes you’re anxious and stifled by nerves nervous, so you start to doubt how much personality you can show off. But it’s okay! It’s important to show your authentic personality, too! You have to prove to the interviewer that you’ll fit into the company culture. Here’s how to make your personality shine from the very first interview.
Prepare and relax
Show off your personality by relaxing and being yourself. If you prepare ahead of time, you’ll be more at ease so that you can handle any question that’s thrown your way. Use a friend or colleague to practice answering common interview questions, so you’ll feel more confident and relaxed during the actual interview. Before the interview, do whatever you usually do to help you relax in stressful situations—meditate, go for a run, or do some deep breathing. Be prepared so you put your best foot forward right from the start.
Be friendly
Greet each person with a firm handshake, a warm smile, eye contact, and some friendly banter so you make a solid first impression. Be friendly and approachable so you come across as a person that everyone will be able to cooperate with.
Mind your body language
Body language can convey your true feelings and authentic personality, so be mindful of how your present yourself. Sit up straight, look confident, and avoid any anxious habits, like tapping your foot, twirling your hair, or biting your nails that hint at being nervous and unprepared. Keep your arms at your side or on the table because crossing your arms makes you look unapproachable or even angry.
Be professional
It’s great to show your sense of humor in an interview, but your primary focus should be demonstrating your skills and qualifications that make you the perfect fit for the job. Inappropriate jokes and edgy humor are a definite no-no, but you can still be friendly, witting, and personable. You don’t want to come across as immature or unprofessional. Show that you’re personable and good-natured, but also capable of getting down to business when the moment calls for it..
Be positive and handle the pressure
No one wants to hear you badmouth your last boss or former colleagues. Instead, focus on the positive experiences you had in your last job, no matter how terrible it may have been. Mention how grateful you are for the learning opportunity that your old job was and then focus on the future. Talk about how you can help the new company, what inspired you to apply, and how you’re looking forward to the new challenges. Show them that you’re capable of managing stress by handling the pressure of the interview. You’re confident, talented, experienced, and qualified and you know just how to prove it to them.
For more tips on preparing for your upcoming job interviews, check out our website at https://www.chiefofstaffkc.com.
Blog written by Erin Greenhalgh