Interview Tips for Introverts

Posted on Aug 3rd 2009, 01:40 pm, under Career Advice

If you are introverted, shy or just simply more reserved, you probably cringe at the thought of a job interview. If you prefer to think first and talk later, write over talk, prefer in-depth conversation topics opposed to chit chat, we have some tips for you that should help you relax and make a good impression at your next interview.

First, wait for the interviewer to breathe. With a warm smile you can control the pace of the conversation and really show that you are thoughtful and deliberate with your words – something a lot of employers and extroverts like to see in potential working partners. Bridge comments like, “That’s really interesting and I have a similar situation in the past that has resulted in positive results.” Also remember that most extroverts don’t consider it rude or disrespectful to interrupt – it is part of their normal diction.

One of the main topics we hear from introverts is that the prefer to reflect before responding to an out-of-the-blue question. First, you need to get over the self-defeating thoughts in your head, and state, “That’s a really good question, I’ll try to formulate the best answer for you in the next few seconds while I wrap my brain around your question.” Lastly, if you had something significant to say later in the conversion, not a problem – most extroverts are accustomed to bouncing between thoughts. Just make sure you have a few speech bridges memorized in your head to help lead the conversation back such as, “I just thought of something I’d like to add.” Be yourself, and do not be feared by your natural inclinations and organic flow all you introverts.