5 Easy Ways You Can Impress An Interviewer As An Introvert

By Kibet Tobias
When it comes to interviews, almost every one of us finds it challenging and stressful.
It becomes even tougher when you are an introvert like me. You tend to struggle a lot when put on the spot. You may always feel shy and anxious to openly talk to strangers and connect with them.  You only wish there was a way to skip the interview and get the job. Unfortunately, that is not possible.
But did you know that with the right approach, you can make a great impression in any job interview?
In this article, let’s look at the 5 interview tips you can use to ensure you pass an interview when you are introverted:
1. Don’t pretend to be something you are not
One of the mistakes people make is trying to be something else during an interview. When you are introverted don’t pretend to be an extrovert.
This is because you’re going to send wrong signals that may give a false impression of your personality. Yes, lying may get you the job but your true personality is going to be discovered whether during the interview or when on the job.
Remember the interviewer is also human. He or she knows that about 70% of the population is introverted. So you are not alone.
Don’t be embarrassed about yourself because you never know, maybe the interviewer is also an introvert and you will easily relate.
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2. Do research about the job and company
Did you know that 80% of the interview questions normally come from the job description?
Now you know. It is important to take your time to read all the details highlighted by the employer. You need to understand the roles indicated in the job description.
This will help you to know the required soft skills that the employer expects from the candidate.
You can also figure out the company’s history, what it does and its future goals.
This will not only help you to match your goals with the company’s but will also prepare you if the interviewer asks you what you know about them.
3. Listen actively to the interviewer
You will be able to stand out from the rest if you utilize your listening skills well in an interview.
Research shows that introverts are better performers.
Why? Because they listen to other people and empathize with them.
Learn to listen to the interviewer. Instead of responding quickly, ask questions where you don’t understand and seek clarification.
Use the information to best answer the questions at hand. When you engage your interviewer through your listening skills, the interview becomes conversational. You will be more comfortable.
Must Read >>> Why introverts are better performers
4. Familiarize yourself with your own CV
Before you come for an interview, ensure you go through your CV.
Memorize the most important skills and accomplishments you should bring up during the interview.
Consider your previous responsibilities that relate to the position you are interviewing for to help you showcase your personal abilities, weaknesses, and strengths.
5. End the interview on a high note
An introvert may be tempted to run out of the interview room immediately. That may leave a bad impression.
Instead, you can end by telling the interviewer that it was nice meeting them with a smile and firm handshake.
Just like the first impression, last impression matters.
Say something like “It has truly been a privilege to engage with you. I look forward to meeting you again.”
In the end, know that it is okay to be introverted. It reflects your own personality. Hopefully, these 5 tips will guide you to properly prepare for your next job interview in order to leave a positive impression that gets you the job.
Tobias is a content writer at Career Point Kenya. Email tobias@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke.