The typical job interview is viewed as being a very rigid and standardized process. While most do expect a certain degree of professionalism, job interviews don’t have to be boring. Automation Personnel Services recommends showing off your personality in a variety of ways, including:
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Pay attention to your body language.
Whether you realize it or not, your body language speaks volumes about your personality. Words are easily rehearsed and typed resumes can be edited a number of times before submitting – but your body language is much less controllable.
As such, hiring managers rely heavily on body language to determine the potential value of new candidates. For starters, Automation Personnel Services recommends delivering a firm handshake and a happy greeting. Remember to smile and look at your interviewers. If you get the nervous jitters bring a notebook or padfolio you can hold onto to keep from fidgeting your hands.
Maintain eye contact and greet every new face you come across. You never know who you might run across in the parking lot or hallway outside of your interview, and a simple greeting goes a long way in forging strong professional relationships right from the start.
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Remain optimistic at all times.
Nobody wants to work alongside someone with a poor attitude. Not only are they difficult to work with, they can bring down the productivity of those around them. As such, many hiring managers won’t even waste their time with an applicant who shows a negative attitude.
Always remain optimistic. Whether you’re talking about a horrible ex-boss or your future with this company, hiring managers want to see confidence and positivity at all times. Some of the professionals here at Automation like to live by the adage: “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all” – and it definitely applies here.
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Avoid blatant comedy – but show a sense of humor.
This one can be a bit tricky. On one hand, it’s important to show you’re treating the job interview with professionalism and respect. On the other hand, you don’t want to come across as a stick in the mud. Achieving the perfect balance is difficult, but it can be done.
For starters, let the interviewer determine the appropriate level of comic relief. Some workplaces are more open and friendly while others require a serious or professional demeanor at all times. Recognizing exactly where you are and which attitude applies will let you know exactly how to proceed.
Highlighting Your Personality Appropriately
There is a right way and a wrong way to go about showing your personality during a job interview. To have the biggest impact, without overdoing it, read the job description fully and research the company beforehand. Not only will this let you know of any applicable dress codes or other expectations, it will also give you a better idea of the type of atmosphere you’re about to enter.
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