Picture this: you've just finished an interview and feel pretty confident about getting a job offer. Your technical experience is outstanding, computer skills are advanced and past job experiences are solid. But one week later you still haven't gotten a call back, and later you find out that another candidate got the offer. What happened? Someone else snagged the position you were banking on, and now it's back to the newspaper classifieds and online job boards.
So why weren't your stellar credentials enough to make you stand out from the rest of the crowd? First of all, good credentials aren't always rare, especially in today's increasingly competitive job market. The fact is, just about any one out there in the same profession can duplicate a technically strong resume.
Another candidate may know the same software, have interned at a similar consulting firm and even gotten the same GPA in college that you did. But there is one thing that makes you different from every other candidate out there: your personality.
Two candidates may submit resumes that are strikingly similar (HR professionals say this happens quite often) and the final decision comes down to personality. Who will work better on the team? Provide more positive vibes in the office? Work harder with a better attitude? These are important questions that many hiring managers consider just as important-if not more important-than technical capabilities. So how can you improve in the professional personality department? It's not something you can develop overnight, but with a few key improvements you can put on a better face for the next interview and add a bit of charisma to go along with that excellent resume.
Be sure of yourself.
Take out that first-class resume and remind yourself that you did it! Don't go over-inflating your own ego, but remember that self-confidence is an important part of projecting a good aura at the workplace. If you feel secure in your capabilities, the hiring manager sitting across from you will too. Someone may be able to toss a few qualifications on a piece of paper, but the best possible hire has the attitude to go with those credentials. Don't be afraid to ask questions at the interview, and confidently give answers about yourself.
Get physical.
No, I'm not talking about going to the gym to find the perfect job. What I suggest is a firm handshake, direct eye contact and smiles, nods, and questions in response to someone else speaking. Body language is extremely important on the job; we've all heard that, so put the knowledge to use. Use your posture to express interest and honesty. Many people pay more attention to your movements than your words, so why not use both to get your point across? Be conscious of where your hands are and what you are looking at during an interview. Someone who is focused on the interview, with still hands and direct eye contact seems more dependable, professionals and capable.
Don't hear-listen.
We've all been there-standing at the office water cooler in the middle of a conversation when suddenly you realize you can't remember what the person across from you is talking about. You've been completely tuning them out, thinking about picking up the dry-cleaning and making dinner reservations at the new restaurant downtown. Unfortunately, you've managed to alienate your discussion partner and make them feel uncomfortable. Always pay attention when someone else is speaking. It makes them feel important and respected, not to mention it's simply polite to give someone your full attention while they are taking the time to speak with you!
Show common courtesy.
Believe it or not, this is a rare occurrence that many employers hardly ever see. (Unfortunate for them!) Make your interviewer's day be minding your manners, confirming your meeting prior to the interview and sending a thank you email or note after you've met. This indicates someone who is responsible and respectful of his or her employer, fellow workers and self. You can never go wrong with simple kindness, and it can go a long way in leaving a lasting positive impression behind you.
Be yourself.
When it all comes down to it, everyone has a different way of showing confidence, respect and responsibility. The important thing is that you do show it in an interview. A great resume may get you in the door, but it will always be your personality that keeps you there.
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