Bring Your Interests to Your Interviews

We’re given advice all of the time about how to behave and perform at job interviews. From firm handshakes to clever thank you letters, we all know the protocols. However, the key to a successful interview is not only showcasing your talents and skills, but also differentiating your candidacy from the competition.

So find discreet and subtle ways to bring your personal interests into the interview. Supplement your pitch to sell your professional attributes with personal color that makes you an actual human being. If you love scuba diving, work in how those skills make you a reliable and meticulous person. If you love bird watching, demonstrate how that translates into your love of the environment and sustainability. If you love cooking, explain why you love your favorite recipe. And if you love literature, by all means discuss how books enhance your life.

This article explains, “In a world where the average person publicizes what they had for breakfast on Twitter, it’s OK to brag about what you’re currently reading. Feel free to name drop what you’re reading online or in your next interview. Employers want to see that candidates are well-rounded and actively seeking knowledge. Apply what you learn in your reading to current events in your industry and post your thoughts in relevant forums.”

So when the interview experts tell you to be yourself, know that one of the ways you can accomplish this is to paint outside the professional lines and offer your entire self to the process. After all, you’ll be working with other people, and at interviews are about finding the right fit.

Photo courtesy of Victor1558.