I was once told by a hiring manager that when he interviews people, he always asks himself, “Would I want to eat lunch with this person everyday?” Essentially, you do end up forming close bonds with your co-workers…eating lunch with them, attending conferences together, working just a few feet from them 40 hours a week. You have to like their personality!
This reminded me of the awkwardness of a first date. You probably already know what this person looks like, but personality can make or break the love connection. It’s the same in a job interview. In fact, there are many aspects of the awkwardness of a first date that remind me of the awkwardness of a job interview.
- Do your research. Just as it is important to research a company before going to the job interview, you should Google your date! You may find out information that turns you off completely.
- Deciding what to wear. Not only is it hard to pick out what you’ll wear to either of these events, but what you wear may be a deal breaker. For me, if the guy’s shirt is wrinkled or he has junky shoes on, his chances just hit the floor. I’m just sayin’…
- Nerves. I don’t know about you, but before I walk into an interview, I’m sweating and shaking. I’m a confident interviewer and dater, but meeting with a stranger about something that could lead to something life changing is never easy.
- Etiquette. There are certain manners expected on a date and in an interview. Be an active listener, ask questions, don’t slouch, etc. etc.
- Chemistry. As in love, you have to have employer-employee chemistry. (Obviously a different kind from the dating one.) Know if the company is a good fit for you, because the interviewer is definitely considering if you’re a good fit for the company.
The best part about this analogy is that the more I put myself in these awkward situations, the better I get. The better I get at picking the right outfit, saying the right things, doing the right research, and picking the right guy/company. Just thought this similarity was worth reflecting on!
