Steal these psychology tricks I use in interviews🧠
When I learned that having the “perfect” interview responses won’t alone get me the job, I knew I had to get creative in my ways to stand out & leave a lasting impression.
I’ve always been interested in psychology, which is why (after majoring in business in college) I pursued a career in marketing. It’s has taught me that the way we present ourselves, our brands, and information in general, can impact how others view and remember us.
Having interviewed at companies like Visa, L’Oreal, and Samsung, I’ve picked up on a few psychological hacks that have helped me advance in the interview process due to them making me more memorable and liked:
1. Mirroring - From the start, I like to mirror certain aspects of my interviewer, whether it’s their humor, tone, pace, or even language choice. This helps build subconscious rapport and makes my interviewer feel like we’re vibing / on the same wavelength.
2. Power of the Pause - I tend to speak extremely fast when I get nervous, which then causes me to stumble on my words and appear unprepared or unprofessional. This is the last thing I want my interviewer to think about me, so I’ve been practicing pausing more often in addition to speaking more slowly. After each question I’m asked, rather than rushing to answer, I pause. Just for a few seconds. Sometimes I even ask for a moment to think of my response. This tactic can help us appear more thoughtful and confident.
3. The Ben Franklin Effect - People like us more when they feel they’ve helped us in some way. This is why I always position at least one question at the end of the interview to ask them for some sort of “advice” or perspective: My go-to is usually asking them about their experience at the company and if there is anything about the company they wish could change.
These 3 specifically have helped me advance to future rounds of interviews and even land roles, despite not always being the most qualified candidate on paper.
Remember, people like hiring people they like. On top of being able to do the job, personality and whether we “vibe” with the company or team also comes in to play. Plus, in roles where we may work with clients or other external stakeholders, being able to demonstrate professionalism and confidence is a huge priority, so showcasing your abilities around that right from the very first interview could make a huge impact on whether you advance deeper into the process.
These are my top 3 tricks but there are sooo many more that are useful. Do you use any psychology tricks to master your interviews or build a strong personal brand? 💡
#lemon8partner #interviewtips #psychology #careerdevelopment
Interviews are not just about answering questions correctly; they’re about creating a memorable and positive impression that goes beyond your resume. Integrating psychology into your interview strategy can be a game changer. Beyond the techniques highlighted—mirroring, pausing, and the Ben Franklin Effect—there are additional psychological tactics worth exploring to maximize your impact. One useful strategy is storytelling. Humans are wired to respond to stories more than dry facts. Sharing succinct, relevant anecdotes about your experiences or achievements can create an emotional connection with your interviewer. It makes your responses more relatable and memorable. When telling stories, using vivid details and emphasizing challenges you overcame can signal resilience and problem-solving skills. Another important psychology-based tip is the use of positive body language. Nonverbal cues such as maintaining eye contact, offering a genuine smile, and presenting an open posture reinforce confidence and approachability. These behaviors can subconsciously make interviewers feel more comfortable and predisposed to like you. Additionally, researchers find that the timing and tone of your voice matter just as much as your words. Varying pitch and using a warm tone can convey enthusiasm and sincerity, which help in building rapport. Pausing, as mentioned, also allows your brain to frame thoughtful and precise answers, showcasing your professionalism. Finally, expressing gratitude after your interview has psychological benefits. A thoughtful thank-you note can reinforce your interest and remind interviewers of your positive traits. This small gesture taps into the reciprocity principle, fostering goodwill. By incorporating these psychological principles—storytelling, positive body language, voice modulation, and gratitude—alongside mirroring, pausing, and the Ben Franklin Effect, your interview preparation becomes more holistic. These strategies build authentic connections, increase your likability, and significantly enhance your chances of success. Remember, the goal is not just to answer questions correctly, but to authentically connect and be memorable in the eyes of your potential employer.
OMG mirroring the interviewer? I'm so awkward, I'd probably just end up mimicking their breathing.