7 Tips to Help Introverts Succeed in Interviews

Would you describe yourself as more of an introvert or an extrovert? Interviews can be intimidating for the most extroverted person and can be down right scary if you are on the other end of the spectrum. You can’t avoid interviews your entire career. So, the best way to make it through them, and to stand out as an introvert, is to use these tips.

#1: Realize that being an introvert is not a bad thing

Everyone has great qualities whether you are introverted, extroverted or somewhere in the middle. Most people are a combination of these three depending on the situation you are in. Introverts have many great qualities such as good listening skills, the ability to observe and think through logical solutions, an empathetic nature when dealing with peers and clients, a trustworthy nature and an ability to be motivated by open and honest feedback about their work. Embrace your introverted qualities as a strength!

#2: Prepare to leave a strong first and last impression

If you have downloaded my freebie, you will know that one of my tips to stand out from others is to pick the first, or last, interview spot of the day. Hiring managers have busy days when they are interviewing and it can be hard for them to remember candidates after a few interviews. Being the first, or last, person they see will leave a lasting impression.

In addition to that, you want to prepare for what will most likely be your first and last question of the interview. Make sure you have a solid, rehearsed answer for “Tell me about yourself” and “Why should we hire you for this position”. I can almost guarantee these questions, or some version of them, will be in every formal job interview. As long as you have stand out answers for these opening and closing questions, they will not remember if you had to struggle on a few questions in the middle.

You can download my freebie AND you can learn my solid STORY technique to prepare for these, and other interview questions, ahead of time.

www.brooksinterviewcoaching.com/shop

#3: Practice, Practice, Practice!

The number one piece of advice you will hear me tell you over and over is that practice is THE BEST way to go from nervous and stressed to confident and prepared in interviews…..especially for introverts! You can practice with a friend, by yourself in front of the mirror, in front of your cat or by booking a session with me. As an interview coach, my goal is to help you succeed. I will tell you what you are already doing well and how to improve on areas that need a bit of work before your interview.

#4: Leave a portfolio for them to review after

Prepare a portfolio that includes your cover letter, resume, 30/60/90 day action plan, stats of your successes and anything else that would be relevant for the position. Leave a copy for each person on the interview panel, even if this is not requested for the interview. This is something that other candidates will most likely not do and will make you stand out. It is guaranteed to highlight the successes you did not talk about and will show your initiative, creativity and attention to detail. It will leave a positive lasting impression long after you have left the interview room!

#5: Think of the interview as just a conversation

This tip has probably been one of the most helpful pieces of advice I give my coaching clients. If you think of it as a conversation, the interview won’t seem as intimidating. The interview is a two way street. It is for the employer to see if you are a fit but is is also to make sure this is a company, and manager, you want to work for as well. Be excited to meet new people and that can change your whole mindset.

#6: Look the part

I know when I put on an outfit that I feel looks good and professional, my whole mindset changes. It makes me feel more confident almost instantly! Have a few “go to” outfits that make you feel great and that will bring out any extroverted qualities you may have lurking deep within you :)

#7: Fake it

There is a motto that says: “Fake it until you make it”. That may be what you need to do to get through your interview. This is not a bad thing either. If you spend time envisioning yourself in the job, and thinking about the reasons why you are a great candidate, that will give you the courage to get through the interview and look like you have the confidence. Once you get more comfortable throughout the interview, you will slowly build up the confidence to let your expertise and skill shine through.

What other ways can introverts use to prepare for interviews?

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