Career Advice

Infographic: How Introverts Should Approach Job Interviews

By Nicole Dieker March 7th, 2017

This probably won’t come as a surprise, but—like many writers—I am an introvert. Certain aspects of job interviews, such as the small talk you have to make during the walk from the reception area to the office, are very difficult for me. (For some reason everyone always asks if I had trouble finding the office. Of course I didn’t. I made a practice trip the day before the interview. But I can’t say that, because it’ll make me look weird.)

CashNetUSA put together an infographic full of helpful tips for introverts, and I was glad to see that many of these tips matched tricks I’ve used to get through my own interviews, such as “think of small talk in advance.” I like to look for something in the office lobby to compliment, like the artwork. This shows interest in the company, reveals that I pay attention to detail, and separates me from all of the interviewees who make boring comments about traffic or the weather.

I also prepare my talking points and example scenarios in advance—which is the kind of thing you’re supposed to do for interviews regardless of whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert—but since I’m an introvert who has difficulty making eye contact with strangers, I also practice looking at people and visualize when I’m going to shift my gaze. Here’s a pro tip: When you’re being interviewed by multiple people and one of them asks you a question, transition your eyes from person to person as you transition through the various points in your answer. It’ll look like you’re making an effort to include all of your interviewers in your response.

Check out the infographic below for more tips on how to get hired and avoid talking about the weather.

Tags: , ,