One frequent mistake candidates make during interviews is wearing what I call the “interview mask.” This happens when people try to become the “ideal candidate” instead of being themselves. This often results in a robotic demeanor that doesn’t reflect their true personality.
In my experience, I always choose to be my genuine self during interviews, even if it means not getting the job. I believe it’s more beneficial for both the candidate and the employer to understand who you truly are and how you’ll fit into the workplace beyond the interview setting.
I once went through seven rounds of interviews with a prestigious consulting firm. Throughout the process, I stayed relaxed and conversational, confident in my skills and desire for the position. Despite my technical abilities being clear, the interviewers were looking for a cultural fit, which ultimately wasn’t there. After a brief moment of disappointment, I realized that pretending to be someone else could lead to a mismatch in roles, potentially causing dissatisfaction for both parties.
Candidates often face tough questions designed to reveal their true selves. Many choose to give polished, insincere answers. For example, when asked about my greatest weakness, I initially gave a cliché response about delegation, only to be challenged for a more genuine answer.
At that moment, I decided to be honest. I admitted that I sometimes speak before thinking, a trait I’m actively working to improve. This level of vulnerability not only provided the interviewer with a real answer but also showed my self-awareness and commitment to personal growth.
When answering interview questions, it’s crucial to be direct. I advocate for the principle of “putting the bottom line on top.” This means answering the question clearly and then elaborating on your response. Employers appreciate candidates who recognize their areas for improvement and are actively working on them, rather than those who present an unrealistic image of perfection.
Another common mistake candidates make is not realizing that the interview process starts long before the formal meeting and continues even after it ends. From the moment you receive the interview invitation, every interaction—whether during scheduling, at security, or in the waiting room—contributes to the overall impression you make.
The rapport built during the walk from the waiting room to the interview room is crucial and should be seen as part of the initial interview stage. Furthermore, once the formal interview concludes, the process isn’t over. Sending a thank-you note is just one aspect; it’s also essential to maintain a relationship with the interviewer and the company.
Even if you don’t receive the job offer, it’s important to continue fostering connections with the interviewer and the organization. The position may not have been the right fit, but future opportunities could arise. Seeking feedback can help you enhance your skills for subsequent interviews, and you may even have the chance to refer someone else for a position.
In conclusion, understanding that the interview process extends beyond the hour spent in the room can significantly impact your job search. Embrace authenticity, be open about your weaknesses, and recognize the importance of every interaction throughout the process. This approach will not only help you in securing a job but also in building valuable professional relationships.
Engage in a role-playing exercise where you and a partner take turns being the interviewer and the interviewee. Focus on being your genuine self rather than adopting an “interview mask.” After each session, provide feedback to each other on how authentic and relatable the responses were.
Research a company you are interested in and analyze their culture. Reflect on how your personal values and working style align with theirs. Write a short essay on why you would or wouldn’t be a good cultural fit, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in this assessment.
Participate in a workshop where you practice answering common interview questions with honesty and vulnerability. Share your greatest weakness and discuss how you are working to improve it. This will help you become more comfortable with being open and genuine during interviews.
Practice the “bottom line on top” technique by answering interview questions with a clear and direct response first, followed by elaboration. Record your responses and review them to ensure clarity and conciseness, which are key to effective communication in interviews.
Develop a plan to maintain relationships with interviewers and companies, even if you don’t get the job. This could include sending follow-up emails, connecting on professional networks, and seeking feedback. Discuss your plan with peers to gain insights and improve your strategy.
Authenticity – The quality of being genuine and true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character, especially in communication. – In professional settings, authenticity in communication helps build trust and credibility among colleagues.
Communication – The process of exchanging information, ideas, or feelings between individuals through speaking, writing, or other mediums. – Effective communication is essential for successful teamwork and project management.
Vulnerability – The willingness to be open and honest about one’s feelings, thoughts, and experiences, which can foster deeper connections and understanding. – Demonstrating vulnerability in discussions can lead to more meaningful and productive conversations.
Self-awareness – The conscious knowledge of one’s own character, feelings, motives, and desires, which is crucial for personal and professional development. – Self-awareness allows professionals to identify their strengths and areas for improvement.
Relationships – The connections and interactions between individuals or groups, which can significantly impact communication and collaboration. – Building strong professional relationships can enhance teamwork and lead to more successful outcomes.
Improvement – The process of making something better or more effective, often through continuous learning and adaptation. – Seeking feedback is a vital step in the process of personal and professional improvement.
Responses – Reactions or replies to a communication or situation, which can influence the direction and outcome of interactions. – Thoughtful responses in meetings can demonstrate critical thinking and engagement.
Fit – The suitability or compatibility of a person or thing within a particular context or environment. – Ensuring a good cultural fit is important when hiring new team members.
Growth – The process of developing or maturing physically, mentally, or professionally, often through learning and experience. – Professional growth often involves taking on new challenges and expanding one’s skill set.
Interview – A formal meeting in which one or more persons question, consult, or evaluate another person, often used in the context of job applications. – Preparing thoroughly for an interview can significantly increase the chances of securing a desired position.
