Assuming you’re qualified for the job, the outcome of your interview depends on your ability to discover the employer’s needs and empathize with the interviewer.
You can do this by asking questions that show you understand what the interviewer has just said, without editorializing. By showing empathy in this manner, you’ll be in a better position to freely exchange ideas and show that you’re right for the job.
In addition to empathy, there are four other intangible basics to a successful interview. These will influence the way your personality is perceived and will affect the degree of rapport you’ll have with the employer. They are:
Enthusiasm
Leave no doubt that you are interested in the job. You may think it’s unnecessary to do this, but employers often choose the more enthusiastic candidate in the case of a tie. Besides, it’s best to give yourself options. Wouldn’t you rather be in a position to turn down an offer than have one slip away because you gave a lackluster interview?
Technical interest
Employers look for people who love what they do and who get excited about tearing into the nitty-gritty of the job. Show that you are one of these people by giving details that show your technical interest in your job. Talk about a tech conference you were excited to organize or an aspect of sales that makes you look forward to coming to work.
Confidence
No one likes a braggart, but the candidate who’s sure of his or her abilities will almost certainly be more favorably received.
Intensity
The last thing you want to do is come across as “flat” in your interview. There’s nothing wrong with being a laid-back person, but sleepwalkers rarely get hired. Appear excited about the opportunity by asking questions, having an attentive posture, and responding to the interviewer’s questions with concrete details.
Preparedness
Since interviewing also involves the exchange of information, always make sure to present your background thoroughly and accurately and gather data about the company, the industry and the position.
A worthwhile interviewing goal is to link your abilities with the company needs in the mind of the employer so you can build a strong case for why the company should hire you. The more you know about each other, the more potential you’ll have for establishing rapport and making an informed decision.