How to Conquer a Job Interview When You’re an Introvert

When it comes to internship or entry-level job interviews, being an introvert can almost feel like being placed at a disadvantage. Between having a social battery that quickly depletes and feeling reserved in most social situations, job interviews with back-to-back meetings can seem all too daunting. In theory, having to sit in a professional setting and meeting multiple people from your potential employer for a lengthy amount of time is intimidating — but with practice, preparation, and strategic planning, job interviews don’t have to be exhausting.

When you attend an interview, you want the hiring manager to meet the best possible version of yourself. This isn’t always easy when you’re feeling nervous, anxious, or shy. Following these tips doesn’t guarantee a nerve-free interview, but they do provide you with advice on conquering each social interaction you’re placed in.

Plan ahead to avoid burnout.

For introverts, this type of interaction can be awfully draining, so it’s important for you to plan ahead in preparation. That means performing self-care or energizing activities that will prevent burning out later on. If your interview is early in the morning, formulate a schedule the night before that consists of calming tasks like journaling, taking a bath, cooking your favorite meal, or binge-watching Netflix. The ultimate goal here is to conserve your energy so you feel refreshed with a fully charged social battery, ready to take on the interview.

If your interview is mid-afternoon, encourage yourself to take it easy that morning. For example, if spending time alone is most energizing for you, then strategically carve out time that allows you to do that.

Prepare for multiple interviews and limited breaks.

Oftentimes, in-person interviews can consist of meeting multiple employees or executives throughout a long period. For introverts, this may seem pretty intimidating, especially because it requires small talk or chatting about your experiences for lengthy intervals. When packing your tote bag, briefcase, or handbag for the interview, bring along a bottle of water and a granola bar to munch on in-between meetings. Food is fuel, and eating something quick and hearty when you have a moment can boost your energy at a moment’s notice. Don’t feel weird or embarrassed about this, either. Employers understand that you’re a human, and granting yourself a few minutes alone between interviews (key word: between) is definitely well-warranted.

With that said, not every in-person interview process or even virtual process grants breaks in between. If the employer expects you to bounce around from interview to interview, feel free to ask to use the restroom in between to collect your thoughts and have a moment of solitude. Again, these long days can frequently feel draining, so don’t be ashamed of needing a few minutes to recharge.

Collect your thoughts beforehand.

When you arrive to the building or interview space for an in-person interview, check in to let the interviewer know that you’ve arrived, then take five minutes for alone time. Find a bathroom or a comfortable space to breathe and remind yourself that you’re a valid candidate. If you’re particularly nervous, try using a mindfulness app to center yourself and focus on the present. If anything, allow yourself a moment for some positive affirmations: remember that you can do anything, and, as an introvert, you’re perfectly capable of conquering this interview. Think of it a friendly conversation with people that just want to get to know you better, and maybe it won’t seem so scary.

Prepare for small talk.

Interviews tend to move quickly, and small talk and conversing with a stranger can be intimidating for some introverts. Chances are, if you’ve already moved along to the in-person stage of the interview process, then you know who the hiring manager is or who you’re going to be meeting with. This means you can look them up on LinkedIn to get an idea of what you can expect, and you can use this research to your advantage to prepare some talking points based on any commonalities between yourself and the interviewer. This could include the school they went to, what they majored in, or any previous companies that you may be familiar with. While small talk can sometimes feel awkward, preparing points to discuss can help ease your mind and minimize your discomfort.

Frame your introverted nature as an advantage.

Not everyone can walk into an interview and succeed at small talk or chatter excitedly about their potential employer. Instead, be honest about your introverted nature and frame it as an advantage (because it totally is!). Talk about how you thrive when completing projects individually, but make sure to establish your ability to work in a collaborative setting, too. Explain that you excel at forming one-on-one connections with coworkers or clients once you get to know them and highlight your skills as an interpersonal communicator.

Decompress post-interview.

Even after the interview is over, keep your head held high and walk out with dignity, confidence, and a positive mindset. Allow yourself necessary time to decompress after it’s done, but don’t spend it going over every single thing you said. Regardless of how you think you did, be proud of yourself for showing up and doing your best. We tend to be our own biggest critics, so instead, be your biggest cheerleader. Treat yourself to your favorite coffee, congratulate yourself on making it through another interview, and march on.

The characteristics and habits that come along with being an introverted are by no means a drawback. It may admittedly feel like things are a bit more difficult than they have to be, but these qualities shouldn’t be a reason to limit your job opportunities or professional future. When in doubt, feel confident in who you are and accept your introverted persona.

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