How To Let Your Personality Shine In An Interview
Paolo Martel, Nov 6, 2018
If an overseas client is interviewing you with many other applicants, you most likely have a similar skillset as the other applicants at the Ikon office. Ano ang lamang mo sa ibang 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 at para makita nila kung ikaw ay nababagay sa kumpanya. 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. Be sure to show up five to 10 minutes early, relaxed, and well prepared. Walk through the front door with confidence, and make sure to be polite and friendly to everyone including your competition, even if you feel nervous. This is your chance to show that you are capable, reliable, and pleasant without being cocky.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Professional clothes don’t have to be boring. And in fact, it is an opportunity to showcase your personal style and give the employer a way remember you, within reason, of course. 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 as the woman with the beautiful pendant.
BE PREPARED
Before you arrive, be sure that you have done thorough research on the company and people that are interviewing you. Review their mission statement and company vision. Read their blog, social media sites, and any relevant news stories about them. At the end of an interview, there is usually an opportunity to ask questions. This is your chance to ask something thoughtful about the company to show that you have taken the trouble to check the company out and to show you have done your homework. An interesting question is a memorable one.
“Knowledge is having the right answer. Intelligence is asking the right question.” ~unknown
BE AUTHENTIC
Be the best that you know how to be. During the interview, make eye contact, be relaxed, and use body language and vocal variety when speaking and actively listening. There is nothing wrong with showing certain emotions, such as enthusiasm or joy if the situation calls for it. In fact, showing positive emotions makes you seem more genuine, honest, and likable. It is okay to be serious as well; in general, be sure to match the tone of your voice to your emotion.
DON’T BE TOO RADICAL
When showing who you are, approach it like you would the volume control of your speakers. You can show who you are without turning up the volume to a deafening or squeaky level. Highlight the positives and tone down the negatives. Maintain clear boundaries to avoid revealing too much personal information. A recruiter doesn’t want or need to hear about your family struggles nor your cool new dance moves. Also, humour is a very personal thing, so test the waters before making bold statements. And remember that a smile goes a long way.
Sa kabuuan, maganda na may maiwan ka na positive at memorable statement tungkol sa iyong sarili, be it something you said, something you wore, or even something that everyone laughed about. Gusto mong agad kang matandaan ng recruiter kapag nagsimula na silang mag-shortlist ng pinakamahusay na candidates for the job. Maaaring makalimutan nila ang iyong pangalan o ang iyong itsura, yet they will remember that one thing about you that is special. That is your personality. Let it shine!
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