Interview Tips for Introverts

Sometimes it is difficult for an introverted person to leave a memorable first impression during an interview. While they are quite capable of being comfortable with people they know  introverts often tend to carefully analyze a new situation before giving an answer, which can sometimes give the impression that ‘they are distant, reserved or even antisocial, and turn the job interview into a real ordeal. Indeed, regardless of their CV, the recruiter will necessarily be based on the first impression left by the candidate when making his decision.

The good news is, it’s absolutely not impossible for an introvert to make a good first impression. It just means you have to adapt your approach, to make sure you put to use those traits and skills that make you unique. So it can be useful to go through certain steps to be sure that you are as prepared as possible for the very specific ordeal of the recruitment process.

Here are a few tips :

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Get in good physical and mental condition.

Before the interview, do your research on the company, and don’t hesitate to ask a friend to help you practice. On D-Day, if you can, free up your morning to do some last-minute research and preparation. Engage in a calming activity, such as yoga or meditation, to be as focused as possible. It is also useful to have made a preliminary identification of the places where the interview will take place, to arrive on time obviously, but especially to avoid any unnecessary stress. 

Think beyond the job, the social connections you need to create.

While extroverts have no trouble bonding with a group, introverts are much more comfortable in a one-on-one relationship. When you arrive, you may find it difficult to meet several people at the same time; Representing them as individuals rather than as a group can help you overcome this embarrassment. 

Take the time to look each person in the eye when you introduce yourself.

It is also useful to have prepared a few “boat” sentences in advance in order to avoid an awkward silence (for example you can talk about your trip to the premises, or talk  about an element of their environment that impresses you, whether it is the space available or the decoration). Remember that while you won’t always have an answer at hand (most introverts take a little longer to formulate an answer they find satisfactory), asking a question is often a good way to break the silence. 

Think of the discussion as an exchange rather than a commercial speech.

Use your listening skills to turn a question into a conversation, trying to bounce back to another question as soon as possible. If you need a little time to answer a question, feel free to start with, “That’s a very good question. It takes me a little while to put my thoughts in order ”. You may also find it difficult to understand a question because you are too focused on analyzing your previous answer, so never be afraid to ask the recruiter to repeat their question. For example: “I would like to clarify: are you saying that…? “. 

Dare to talk about your experience

You will likely be asked to talk about your successes during the interview. If this step makes you bristle and you are inexperienced in showing off, focus the discussion on what you can do and what you can bring to the team rather than talking about yourself directly. Instead of talking about what you accomplished in your previous assignments, explain what you learned and remembered, and always place your successes in the context of what you could accomplish for this new venture. Why not bring physical evidence of your successes, such as a portfolio of your work and ideas that relate to the position? It is sometimes reassuring to have an object to hold, if only to occupy the hands. 

and after ?

At the end of the interview and once your questions have been asked, thank the recruiters for something that you particularly liked during this recruitment process. Once outside, take a walk with your favorite music in your ears: a little exercise will help lower your adrenaline and cortisol levels (which can make you anxious). Do not forget to send a thank you email within 24 hours of the interview, in which you will mention a fact that stood out during your interview .

 

By Admon

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