If you’re an introvert, going out on job interviews and charming employers might not be your strong point. In fact you may dread interviews and stress about it for days, or even weeks before.
Some of the common complaints given by employers related to introverts are: (1) It can be like pulling teeth trying to get comprehensive interview answers out of them; (2) Candidates fail to convince them that they really want the position; (3) They have low energy and don’t seem enthusiastic about the job; or (4) They seem stand-offish or impersonal and employers question their communications skills and ability to get along well with others.
Introverts do have plenty of strengths when it comes to interviews though, such as being very insightful about interview answers or radiating professionalism to employers. It’s all about knowing how to emphasize your strengths and downplay your weaknesses. Here are a few tips you should know in order to use your personality to help your interview rather than hurt it.
Practice, practice, practice
I tend to get nervous during interviews and clam up. Because of that, I usually do best in interviews when I try to take off some of the pressure that can make me freeze up. One of the best ways to do this is by practicing. The more you know what to expect in an interview the more relaxed and prepared you’ll be. Try looking for as many interview examples beforehand and write down key bullet points you would use in response to that question. You can even print this out and review it before the interview so that you have quality answers and examples ready for some of the key interview questions.
Talk
If you get anxious during high-pressure situations and typically don’t say much when you do, this could easily happen during your interview. If you don’t say much, employers might not be convinced of your qualifications or won’t think you really want the position. In order to overcome this, try to include at least one example from your previous experience with each relevant interview question. This will help make sure you’re not being short with the interviewers or making them dig for information.
Smile and relax
I can’t stress these two enough. If you’re nervous, stiff and unsmiling then interviewers might perceive you as cold, boring or impersonal and that won’t win you any brownie points. Try to smile to lighten the mood. While you want to portray professionalism you also don’t want to take yourself too seriously and look like someone others wouldn’t get along with in the office. Remember that what you say is only part of your interview. Non-verbal communication plays a huge role in your interview success so try to relax and use positive body language to your advantage.
Introverts and extraverts interact with the world differently, but both have their strong points which make them valuable and effective employees. Communicating in an interview is, in general, perhaps less intimidating for an extravert, but extraversion can have its own pitfalls. If you are prepared, relaxed, upbeat, and interested in the job, your more thoughtful personal style can be to your advantage.
