[PODCAST] How to Coach Introverts to Interview

Introvert Interview Coaching

Know your weak spots.

The first step to working around a weakness is to identify it so you can then prepare for it and meet interviewer expectations. Once you know your weak spot is then you can “fake it until you make it.”

For example, if you know you are timid, intentionally amp up your energy upon entering a room, walk-in with a much-louder-than-usual “Hi! Nice to meet you!” to offset your natural shyness.

PRO TIP #1:  Tap into your natural strengths

Many introverts are powerful listeners, thoughtful strategists, and natural observers. Tap into those strengths during the interview.

Share examples of when you put those skills to good use and your interviewer will see your introversion as a superpower!

Pre-interview jitters are good (and necessary)

They jolt you awake, sharpen your focus and boost your energy.

But too much of them and you can flop. The best way to keep interview jitters in check is to prep for the interview and calm your nerves. Know the company and the position.

Ask the recruiter what types of questions you should expect. It’s ok to have a few prepared answers but bring them up organically, don’t force them on the interviewer or they will seem contrived.

PRO TIP #2: Prepare for small talk

Don’t forget the small talk! Introverts feel awkward trying to come up with natural-sounding ice-breakers, so instead we risk coming across as the complete opposite: disingenuous. Prepare a few small-talk questions in advance so you have them at the ready if none come up.

Introverts are energized by solo time

Take time to be you!

Introverts are energized by solo time so on the day of the interview be kind to yourself, don’t book lots of other group meetings, and conserve your energy so you have plenty of reserves when you are face to face with your interviewer. Take your mind off of the jitters by doing something you enjoy like a game or puzzle, going for a walk, or completing a task/chore.

Allow time to decompress after the interview too, or you risk burning out before the next interview!

Authors

Shally Steckerl

One of the pioneers of the sourcing discipline, Shally is the Founder and former President of The Sourcing Institute, where he has helped numerous F500 and mid-market organizations train and develop their talent sourcing capabilities for nearly 20 years. When it comes to innovative approaches to candidate search, Shally literally wrote the book. He is the author of the industry-standard textbook “The Talent Sourcing and Recruitment Handbook” as well as “The Sourcing Method: Tactics to Find Unfindable Talent.”