When going to a job interview, in addition to showcasing why you’re a qualified candidate, you’ll also want to show the interviewer that you’re likable and a good cultural fit for the position and organization. Although some people are more affable than others; there are things we can all do during a job interview to help come across as more likable and a good cultural fit.
- Do your research about the company, the position and the interviewer. Interviewers love talking to candidates who have done their homework and show that they are genuinely interested in the position. Begin your research by visiting the company’s website, social media pages and LinkedIn pages. On LinkedIn, look both for the company page as well as visit the pages of people who work at the company, especially ones that may be interviewing.
- When you arrive, consider all the people that you interact with to be part of the interview process, as well. Whether it’s a front desk person or other employees, the hiring manager may talk to them after your interview, so making a good impression with everyone is important.
- People love to connect with others over mutual interests, hobbies, schools they went to, and so on. Interviewers are no different. During your interview, try to break the ice by finding things you have in common. Keep an eye on your surroundings in general as well as the office of the person you’re interviewing with to see if there’s something you may be able to talk about.
- What you wear is important. For a job interview, you’ll always want to dress up. In some cases, you may receive instructions ahead of time regarding dress code. If so, pay attention to what’s suggested. If you’re working with a recruiter, they should advise you on what’s appropriate to wear to your specific interview. What color to wear is also important. According to a survey by businessinsider.com, hiring managers responded regarding colors worn by job candidates:
- Black: Leadership
- Blue: Team player
- Gray: Logical/analytical
- White: Organized
- Brown: Dependable
- Red: Power
- Green, Yellow, Orange and Purple: Creative
- During the interview, be mindful of your body language. Keep a neutral body posture by sitting up straight. Leaning forward can come across as aggressive and leaning back can make you appehttps://impactbusinessgroup.com/staging/blog/body-language-mistakes-to-avoid-in-an-interview/ar bored or lacking interest. Maintain eye contact and shake hands with the interviewer and anyone else you’re introduced to. Keep your arms open as crossing your arms can come across as defensive. Also, try to mirror the interviewer’s body language. People tend to like each other more when they have similar body language.
- With all these tips in mind, what’s most important still is to be yourself and be authentic. Be prepared and comfortable with yourself. Think of your interview as a conversation and an opportunity to make a connection with the employer. If they’ve invited you in for an interview, they likely believe that you have the qualifications they’re looking for, so focus more on yourself, and what you like about the company and the opportunity.
- While it is important to discuss your past achievements, it’s also important to spend some time on what you could do in the future if the organization hires you. Ask pertinent questions about what they are looking for and what will make someone successful at their organization. If you have specific ideas for things you can help the organization with, bring those up as well. For example, maybe you’ve read about a specific business problem they’re facing, and you have some ideas for how you can help them with it. Not only will it make you come off as being prepared and interested in the position, it will also help the interviewer see you more favorably and think of you as a candidate with great potential.
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