Embrace Authenticity: How Being Yourself Transforms Interviews
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Chapter 1: The Struggle with Authenticity
Have you ever felt that despite all your preparation for an interview, you still seem stiff and unprepared? I certainly did. Countless hours were spent researching typical interview questions, rehearsing my responses, and strategizing how to present my experiences succinctly—only to find myself stumbling during the actual interview. I worried that I appeared rigid, socially awkward, and perhaps even off-putting. Reflecting on those moments, I believe I did.
The pivotal interview for me came when I decided to simply be myself. A couple of years ago, I was actively seeking my first formal design internship. I thought I had done everything right, but my journey often ended at the interview stage.
Eventually, I found myself in a familiar scenario with an upcoming interview that included a unique homework assignment. Now that I’ve graduated, I can confidently say that this was the only time I appreciated a homework task. My task was to create a presentation on an emerging technology and its potential applications.
As I prepared, I rehearsed my presentation six times on my own, then decided to present it to my best friend to get some feedback. His advice was invaluable: he encouraged me to abandon my script and just be myself. Somewhere along the line, my rehearsals had transformed me into a mere script rather than an applicant. I lost my true identity amid the rehearsals. Employers aren’t looking to hire a script; they want to hire a real person—a creative thinker with empathy, not just a robotic presentation.
The moment I let go of the script, several remarkable things occurred:
- Active Listening: I was no longer preoccupied with delivering my points. Instead, I engaged in a genuine conversation with my interviewer, which allowed me to showcase my sociability and ability to think on my feet.
- Comfort: A sense of relief washed over me. The pressure dissipated, transforming the interview from a daunting test to an insightful experience, akin to a casual coffee chat with a mentor.
- Being Genuine: Authenticity became my secret weapon. People appreciate sincerity. If you’ve made it to the interview, you’re already qualified. Now’s your chance to present your true self. Regardless of the outcome, demonstrating authenticity sets you up for success. By revealing your true nature early on, you can discover where you truly belong.
Chapter 2: Preparing Without Losing Authenticity
You can still prepare effectively without becoming overly rigid.
Section 2.1: Conversational Practice
Engage in mock interviews with a relaxed approach. Invite a peer or mentor for a coffee chat or practice interview. If it’s the latter, express your desire to practice being more genuine and conversational. Focus on being an active listener; this will make you more memorable. During a coffee chat, discuss your perspectives on design, and in a practice interview, pitch yourself in a conversational manner. If you’re struggling to find someone, platforms like ADPList are excellent resources for free mentorship.
Section 2.2: Research and Connect
Investigate the company and reach out to current employees. Identify aspects of the company that genuinely excite you—things you would love to discuss. Remember, don’t force it; there’s always something intriguing to talk about. If you genuinely can’t find anything that interests you about the company, it might be worth reconsidering whether it’s the right fit for you.
Section 2.3: Prepare Thoughtful Questions
It’s completely acceptable to prepare questions for the interview. This part is crucial, as it helps you determine if the position aligns with your aspirations. Coming equipped with questions demonstrates your enthusiasm and curiosity about the role.
Remember
You are a fascinating individual, a talented designer, and you possess valuable insights and experiences to offer any team. You don’t need to rehearse your uniqueness; just be yourself and welcome the opportunities that align with who you are! Authenticity is one of life’s greatest gifts—why compromise that for a mundane job?
Engage with your interviewer, reveal your true self, and they will take notice! While it doesn’t guarantee you’ll land the job—there are often many qualified candidates—a rejection can still lead to success. You might be remembered for future openings, referred to another position, or simply enjoy a good conversation with someone new.
Thanks for reading!
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