If
you were startled by the title, don’t worry! We’re not promoting any
illicit job search strategies. But some of the same behaviors used by
successful flirts are also used by successful job seekers. Here’s a
list of flirting tips, with suggestions for using them in an interview.
(And if you’re more interested in flirting than interviewing, you’ll
find the
10 Flirting Tips at the LifeScript website.)
1.
“Don’t put pressure on yourself.”
Although interviews make
almost everyone anxious, try to relax and view this as simply a chance
to meet a new person and see if you hit it off. The more you can enjoy
the conversation, the more likely you are to make a good impression. If
you are a nervous wreck before every interview, check out our tips at
Conquering Interview Anxiety.
2.
“Don’t forget to smile.”
The first thing an
interviewer will notice is whether you seem friendly and approachable.
A genuine smile gets the meeting off to a great start. And please note
the emphasis on “genuine”. Researchers have found that a fake smile
does not create the same facial expression as a real one, so try to
think about something that really makes you happy when you shake hands
with the interviewer.
3.“Make eye contact.”
Although you may
naturally look down when thinking of the answer to a question, try to
maintain eye contact most of the time. This will help to maintain a
positive connection between you and the interviewer. Cultural norms
about eye contact differ, however, so if you and the interviewer are
from different countries, you may want to do a little research on body
language.
4.
“Don’t be afraid to initiate conversation.”
If the interviewer
doesn’t ask about something that you feel is particularly important,
feel free to politely bring it up. For example, “Would you be
interested in hearing about the leadership role that I had on several
project teams?” or “I’d be glad to explain how my graduate
training will help me succeed in this position.”
5.
“Don’t take yourself too seriously.”
Know when to lighten
up. While some interviewers may maintain a solemn demeanor, most will
appreciate a more relaxed tone. After all, you want to seem like
someone that people would enjoy working with.
6.
“Pay attention to how you look.”
Remember that visual
comes before verbal. Interviewers immediately receive a strong visual
impression before you even say a word. Your appearance can imply many
things (rightly or wrongly) about your judgment, decision-making
ability, and attention to detail. So examine your appearance carefully
before leaving home, then do a last-minute check in the restroom mirror.
7.
“Get into situations where you can find people you are interested in.”
Your goal is not to get
just any job, but to find one where you’re a good fit for the position.
So you need to look for networking opportunities that expose you to
people or organizations which match your background and personality.
8.
“Ask questions.”
At the end of almost
every interview, you will have an opportunity to ask questions. If you
don’t have any, you may not appear very interested in the job. So do
your homework and come prepared with questions that make you seem
knowledgeable and motivated. One caution: delay questions about salary
and benefits until you actually receive an offer.
9.
“Don’t underestimate the power of body language.”
Non-verbal signals
always override the words we use. In an interview, you want to appear
relaxed, comfortable, friendly, and open. If this is difficult for you,
practice with a friend until you’ve mastered appropriate body language.
10.
“The most important thing is to be confident.”
If you don’t believe in
yourself, no one else will. But it’s not enough to simply think that
you’d be a great hire. Both your words and your non-verbal behavior
need to reflect self-confidence. On the other hand, if you are already
highly confident, be sure that you don’t come across as arrogant.
