There are many different factors that are involved in enjoying a successful job interview. Some of these factors involve tangible steps—i.e., researching the organization, reviewing the job description, etc.—while others are more intangible in nature.
However, just because they are intangible does not mean that they are any less important. In fact, depending upon who you talk to, they could be considered just as important or even more important than their tangible counterparts. Consequently, you should not dismiss them when preparing for your next interview, regardless of what kind of interview it might be (phone screen, video interview, in-person interview). These are factors that can “make or break” you chances of landing the job.
Below are 10 intangible factors for achieving interview success:
#1—Confidence
When a candidate exudes confidence, they are more likely to make a positive impression on the interviewer and stand out from other candidates. A confident candidate is perceived as competent, capable, and self-assured, which are all desirable qualities in an employee.
Confidence can also help a candidate effectively communicate their skills, experiences, and qualifications for the position. However, it is important to note that there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. It is essential to strike a balance and display confidence without coming across as overconfident or dismissive of others.
#2—A positive attitude
A candidate who presents themselves with a positive outlook and enthusiasm for the job is more likely to make a lasting impression on the interviewer. A positive attitude can demonstrate to the interviewer that the candidate is optimistic, resilient, and adaptable, which are all desirable qualities in an employee.
It can also help the candidate build rapport and establish a connection with the interviewer. However, it is important to ensure that the positivity is genuine and not forced, as this can come across as insincere.
#3—Adaptability
A candidate who demonstrates adaptability is perceived as someone who is flexible, open-minded, and able to handle change. This can be a valuable trait in today’s ever-evolving workplace.
An adaptable candidate is also more likely to be able to learn new skills and adjust to different work environments, which can be essential in certain roles. Demonstrating adaptability during a job interview can involve being open to feedback, showcasing problem-solving skills, and providing examples of times when you have successfully adapted to change.
#4—Creativity
A candidate who displays creativity is often perceived as innovative, resourceful, and able to think outside the box. In today’s competitive job market, creativity can be a valuable asset. Demonstrating creativity during a job interview can involve providing examples of times when you have come up with unique solutions to problems or showcasing your portfolio of creative work.
#5—Emotional intelligence
A candidate with high emotional intelligence is perceived as someone who is able to understand and manage their emotions, as well as empathize with others and navigate interpersonal relationships effectively. Emotional intelligence can be particularly valuable in roles that involve leadership, teamwork, or customer service. Demonstrating emotional intelligence during a job interview can involve actively listening to the interviewer, providing examples of times when you have effectively resolved conflicts, or showcasing your ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups of people.
#6—Humility
A candidate who displays humility is often perceived as someone who is willing to learn, is open to feedback, and able to work well with others. Humility can also demonstrate a level of self-awareness and authenticity that can be appealing to employers. Demonstrating humility during a job interview can involve being willing to acknowledge your weaknesses, highlighting your willingness to learn and grow, and being respectful and courteous to the interviewer.
#7—Passion
A candidate who displays passion for the job is often perceived as someone who is genuinely interested in the work and committed to the organization’s mission and values. Passion can also demonstrate a level of dedication and perseverance that can be appealing to employers. Demonstrating passion during a job interview can involve showcasing your excitement and enthusiasm for the role, providing examples of times when you have gone above and beyond in previous positions, and sharing your long-term career goals.
#8—Resilience
A candidate who displays resilience is often perceived as someone who is able to bounce back from setbacks, remain focused under pressure, and adapt to change. Resilience can also demonstrate a level of determination and grit that can be appealing to employers. Demonstrating resilience during a job interview can involve providing examples of times when you have faced challenges or adversity and how you overcame them, showcasing your ability to remain calm and focused in high-pressure situations, and highlighting your willingness to learn from mistakes.
#9—A sense of humor
A candidate who displays a good sense of humor is often perceived as someone who is able to communicate well, defuse tense situations, and handle stress with grace. Humor can also demonstrate a level of self-awareness and likability that can be appealing to employers. Demonstrating a sense of humor during a job interview can involve being able to laugh at yourself, telling a relevant joke or amusing story, and using humor to build rapport with the interviewer.
#10—Self-awareness
A candidate with high self-awareness is perceived as someone who has a clear understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, values, and personality traits. Self-awareness can be particularly valuable in roles that involve leadership, teamwork, or communication. Demonstrating self-awareness during a job interview can involve acknowledging your weaknesses and limitations, providing examples of times when you have received feedback and acted on it, and being able to articulate your personal values and how they align with the organization’s mission and values.
We at The VET Recruiter know what it takes to be successful during the job interview, and that includes both the tangible steps and the intangible factors involved. We have been helping job seekers and candidates in the Animal Health industry and Veterinary profession for more than two decades, and we can put our experience and expertise to work for you!
If you’re looking to make a change or explore your employment options, then we want to talk with you. I encourage you to contact us or you can also create a profile and/or submit your resume for consideration.
We help support careers in one of two ways: 1. By helping Animal Health and Veterinary professionals to find the right opportunity when the time is right, and 2. By helping to recruit top talent for the critical needs of Animal Health and Veterinary organizations. If this is something that you would like to explore further, please send an email to stacy@thevetrecruiter.com.