3 Tactics to Romance The Interview(er)

Yes, Valentine’s Day is fast approaching.  Lately the entire concept seems to be largely commercialized (did you see that commercial on Superbowl Sunday?  Oh, La La!).  All the same, there are a few things job seekers can learn from hopeless romantics that will help make the interview conference room feel a little more like your favorite lounge chair:

1. Say my name – Everyone loves the affirmation that comes with someone speaking their name.  Plan to use the name of your interviewer at the beginning and end of each interview at least once.  This portrays you as attentive, personable, and confident.
2. Ask questions to show you are interested – No one likes the person who can only talk about herself.  Show you care about the company and its culture by asking pre-planned and thoughtful questions.  If you can’t think of anything you don’t know, ask an intelligent question that you think you already have the answer to.  You may be surprised at what comes out.
3. Lean in – Use body language that communicates interest.  Lean forward in your chair, nod your head, and make eye contact whenever you can.  It may sound simple but it really works.

At their core, all relationships boil down to the same thing:  connection.  We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again:  interviewing is a lot like dating.  Make connections, strike up conversation, and see what comes next.

 

Michelle St. Onge

~Michelle St. Onge