September 4, 2011

A little enthusiasm goes a long way

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In your last job interview, did you really want the job? Sure, you needed the income, along with the benefits and the cocoon of security that comes with being fully employed. But did you really want that job? And did you convey that to the interviewer?

Amid the volumes of helpful advice that is available for today's job seekers -- poise, professional attire, confidence, necessary skill sets, etc. -- one quality that often gets overlooked is plain, old-fashioned enthusiasm. It may seem naïve, in this tough job market, for employers to expect every job applicant to be overjoyed about the prospect of working for their companies. Human nature, however, dictates that we tend to be most interested in people who show that they're interested in us.

When I used to take part in the interview process for interns at a previous employer, I remember that enthusiasm in the interview stage was a good predictor of how they would perform in the roles. Some candidates who impressed us with impeccable resumes, but who sleepwalked through the interview process, would later burn out halfway through the internship. Others who had scant experience, but who had demonstrated an eagerness to learn and take on new challenges, turned out to be stellar interns -- some of whom I've continued to work with to this day.

Now, no one really wants to have a suck-up or a Pollyanna as an employee (at least no one worth working for), so you should be careful not to overdo it with the compliments. But here are some simple ways to let the hiring manager know that this interview is not just one in a long string of rote performances.

Use body language -- Think about how you were communicating non-verbally in your last job interview. Were you sitting upright? Did you look the interviewer in the eye? Were you fidgeting? Sometimes, in an attempt to feel more relaxed, job seekers will lean back and look off in the distance while answering questions. This subtly conveys indifference to the hiring manager and can work against you. While the interviewer is speaking, be sure to lean forward slightly, maintain a healthy amount of eye contact and nod your head occasionally to show you're following along. And don't forget to smile.

Ask questions -- If you've reached the interview stage, you've already made it through the accomplishment gauntlet. They know you're qualified, they just want to make sure you're a good fit with their corporate culture. Be sure to research the company and have several of your own questions about how the office works. If the company earned a positive mention in the news recently, bring that up in the conversation. This shows that you have curiosity about the job and the company, and you are eager to learn about more than just the pay and benefits.

Tell them you want it -- It may seem obvious, but many job seekers forget to mention, verbally, how much they want the jobs they're applying for. If the position is high on your list, be sure to tell the interviewer something like, "I'm very excited about this opportunity, and I really want to work here," or "Of my job prospects, you are my number-one choice." After conducting a string of interviews over several days, an overworked hiring manager will likely remember your candor and will appreciate your enthusiasm when it's time to make a decision.

Randy Woods writes about job-search tools, networking techniques and other tips to help you land your dream job.

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appearance, etiquette, interview