How to Make your Interviewer your Best Friend
The best interviews are the ones that don’t feel like one
In this new age of Zoom calls and video interviews, it’s hard to feel connected with your interviewer and have a memorable presence.
While the modes of communication are different, the foundation of an interview is the same. It’s not about having all the answers to each question — it’s about the way you present yourself.
As soon as that video camera turns on, your main focus is to show a warm and memorable side that sets the tone for the rest of the interview.
All those “why do you want to work here?” and case study questions will be a breeze since you’ll already have a connection to your interviewer and have the confidence to speak like you’re talking to a friend.
Here’s some advice on how to make those first 2 minutes count:
1) Do your Research
Goal: Find any similar passions and commonalities for conversation pieces
Google them. Find their interests, past statements on topics, previous work experience, their favorite ice cream flavor, whatever. The internet is a resource for you to get to know a bit about them beforehand so figure out what things you have in common.
Weave your research into your questions for them accordingly. They’ll be excited to chat about things they’re passionate about!
It’ll give you two a connection and you’ll already stand out to them amongst other candidates.
2) Smile!
Goal: Use open body language to create a warm environment
Energy is contagious.
If you show your enthusiasm and smile, you’ll quickly establish a warm presence which builds rapport.
Rapport is about building a close relationship which comes from finding common ground, speaking on shared experiences, and mirroring their communication style.
People adjust their energy in accordance to who they’re talking to. If somebody is energetic and using wide and welcoming body language, they’ll mirror that.
Get them to be on your wavelength. You’ll both be comfortable which leads to better chemistry in the conversation.
It all starts with the smile!
3) Get Them to Talk about Themselves
Goal: Build a rhythm of conversation and storytelling
When they ask “how are you?”, it’s your opportunity to answer but also an opportunity to ask them about how things have been on their side. Get them to go into storytelling mode and be responsive to their answers.
This will reveal their interests and feelings about different ideas while building rapport.
Acknowledge their thoughts when they speak and share some of your own to create a harmonious duet of storytelling.
4) Be Expressive!
Goal: Show them your enthusiasm and passion and take a deeper interest in you
Having a diverse set of physical and verbal expressions engages your interviewer, emphasizes your message, and will have them mirroring your energy.
People are drawn to enthusiasm and passion. The way you tell your story, take interest in their statements, and throw in humor will make them appreciate you even more.
They’ll want to know more about you and see you as a full person rather than just a candidate.
5) Enjoy the Conversation
Goal: Lead the rest of your conversation with this great energy you’ve created
When the questions start, it’s all you.
Those case-study questions will be there but these tips will create a warm and memorable atmosphere that will keep you confident.
You both will already be smiling, laughing, sharing stories, and be full of energy!
Keep that up and you’ll leave with a strong connection.
At this point, you’re with a friend so enjoy yourself.
