Whilst interviews primarily focus on finding the more appropriately qualified candidate for the job, the importance of enthusiasm should not be underestimated. In my 11+ years as an executive recruiter I have numerous examples of when, torn between two candidates, the client ultimately chooses the person they think is more interested in the role. Don't get me wrong: a lack of appropriate skills but a friendly and enthusiastic demeanor will not place you top of the pile, but in situations where the hiring manager is stuck between two equally qualified candidates, they will often opt for the person that they feel is more likely to reciprocate their interest and will stay the course.
Showing Your Enthusiasm
Here are some strategies you can use to show your interest in an opportunity during the interview process:
- Have a genuine curiosity in the company and ask questions showing you have done your research on their business and the wider market.
- Research your interviewer thoroughly and prepare questions specific to their background.
- In case it wasn't already clear... ask questions! Prepare more than you will need in case some already get answered during the interview.
- Prepare a closing statement: "Thank you for your time today; I am very interested based on what I have heard." (Note: showing gratitude is not an expression of interest.)
- Send a thank you email to follow up, including the reasons why you are interested in the opportunity and not just thanking them for their time.
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Boasting more than 50 years of combined recruitment experience, we know what it takes to deliver the right talent. Ascension Search Partners was founded on the belief that talent acquisition is a true business partnership, and we believe search partners should offer extensive market and functional knowledge, with an in-depth, consultative approach.
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Whilst interviews primarily focus on finding the more appropriately qualified candidate for the job, the importance of enthusiasm should not be underestimated. In my 11+ years as an executive recruiter I have numerous examples of when, torn between two candidates, the client ultimately chooses the person they think is more interested in the role. Don't get me wrong: a lack of appropriate skills but a friendly and enthusiastic demeanor will not place you top of the pile, but in situations where the hiring manager is stuck between two equally qualified candidates, they will often opt for the person that they feel is more likely to reciprocate their interest and will stay the course.
Showing Your Enthusiasm
Here are some strategies you can use to show your interest in an opportunity during the interview process:
- Have a genuine curiosity in the company and ask questions showing you have done your research on their business and the wider market.
- Research your interviewer thoroughly and prepare questions specific to their background.
- In case it wasn't already clear... ask questions! Prepare more than you will need in case some already get answered during the interview.
- Prepare a closing statement: "Thank you for your time today; I am very interested based on what I have heard." (Note: showing gratitude is not an expression of interest.)
- Send a thank you email to follow up, including the reasons why you are interested in the opportunity and not just thanking them for their time.
DOWNLOAD PDF