Career Tips
How To Let Your Personality Shine In An Interview
Date Posted: 11/6/2018
If you’re interviewing for a job with an overseas client, you likely have similar skills to the other applicants at the Ikon office. What sets you apart from the other applicants? Basically, it is your personality. The interviewer’s task is to take note of an applicant’s personality, ability to connect, and working style to see if they are a good fit for the company. Your likability can be the difference between getting a mediocre job and an amazing one. Your goal is to leave the interviewer with a positive and unique impression of YOU. Here are tips to present your personality in the best way possible.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Your interview starts as soon as you enter the building. The reception staff has their eyes on you, whether you think so or not, and may report initial impressions to the recruiter.
- Arrive five to 10 minutes early
- Relaxed and well prepared
- Walk through the front door with confidence
- Be polite and friendly to everyone
- Don’t be cocky
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Professional clothes don’t have to be boring. You can use them as an opportunity to showcase your personal style and give the employer a way remember you. Instead of a plain white shirt under a blazer, try a gentle colour or small pattern. Women can accessorize with understated jewellery such as a beautiful ring, necklace, hair clip, or pin that will give you confidence and also show character. Men can wear patterned socks, or accessorize with a special tie. If your fashion style impresses, they may remember you.
BE PREPARED
Be sure to arrive for your interview having done thorough research on the company and the people who will be interviewing you. Review their mission statement and company vision. Read their blog, social media sites, and any relevant news stories about them. This will give you a chance to ask questions at the end of the interview that are thoughtful and show that you have taken the trouble to check the company out.
“Knowledge is having the right answer. Intelligence is asking the right question.” ~unknown
BE AUTHENTIC
During an interview, the best way to be is by making eye contact, being relaxed, and using body language and vocal variety when speaking and actively listening. Showing positive emotions makes you more genuine, honest, and likable.
DON’T BE TOO RADICAL
When discussing who you are with a potential employer, it is important to maintain a balance between revealing too much and too little information. Highlight your positive attributes without sounding conceited, and downplay any negative qualities you may have. It is also important to be aware of your audience when discussing your sense of humor, as what may be funny to you may not be appropriate for a work setting. Finally, remember that a smile is always a welcoming gesture.
You want to be remembered by the recruiter for something positive and memorable, whether it’s something you said, something you wore, or even something that everyone laughed about. You want to be the best candidate for the job, and the one thing that will make you stand out is your personality. Let it shine!
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