Interview Tip: Show Interest and Enthusiasm

A good tip for success in an interview – show interest and enthusiasm for the job and company if you want the interviewer to become excited about you as a potential employee.

Interview tip – The Importance of Enthusiasm

“I didn’t get the offer,” our client shared during their scheduled debriefing session. She was rather surprised at the news. “I met with the recruiter, and she gave me some feedback into the company's decision," she said. "The interviewers were concerned I did not appear to be excited about the opportunity. However, I thought I portrayed excitement and interest in the job. It was a great company and a job I desired.”

“Well, that's unfortunate you didn't get the job, but it’s good you got that feedback,” our agent replied. “Now that you have this information, what do you think you can you do differently in your next interview so that you don't have the same outcome?”

Our client thought for a little time, and then said, “I think I highlighted their challenges too much and in recommending solutions to show how I could help. I didn't go over any of the positive aspects and programs in place that I thought were good. The interviewers may have misread that and thought I was too negative toward the company.”

Employers do not want to hire candidates who appear to be glum, unemotional, or too negative toward the company in interviews because those employees will often leave when a better or different opportunity comes along. Enthusiastic employees are usually more productive for companies, and also provide positive energy for their colleagues and the workplace in general. Some tips to show enthusiasm in interviews include:

• Remember to smile, and make it a genuine, friendly smile.
• Listen intently, and respond to what is said.
• Make eye contact.
• Sit up straight and portray positive body language.
• Use action verbs in responses, like "eager", "excited", and "thrilled".
• Don't be overly critical of the company you are interviewing for. If asked to address challenges, include positive company aspects as well.
  

You obviously don't want to go overboard with your enthusiasm and emotions during an interview, but measured doses work best, especially when visiting with people who don't know you and are meeting you for the first time in interviews. If you can show sustained excitement about the organization you are interviewing at, and be cognizant of potential negativity in your statements, the interviewers are more likely to be excited about you so that you can advance to the next round or even be selected for the job!