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The Art of Interviewing: Balancing Individuality with Professionalism

Job hunting is a delicate dance—showing personality while proving professionalism. There’s plenty of advice about standing out, like dressing casually or taking an unconventional approach. While individuality has its place, securing the job still requires a strong foundation of professionalism.

The Power of Presentation

First impressions matter—yes, even on video. It may be tempting to dress down, but don’t. Focus on the basics first. Dress appropriately—yes, even for virtual interviews. Maintain a polished presence and be mindful of how you present yourself. These details contribute to making a lasting, positive impact.

Advice for Job Seekers

Timing is Everything

Be strategic about when and where you apply. Focus on high-growth organizations and stay alert to hiring trends. Reaching out when companies are actively expanding can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview.

The Power of Follow-Up

After an interview or discovery session, send a personalized thank-you note to each person you meet. Email is standard, but a handwritten note to senior interviewers adds a thoughtful, standout touch.

Punctuality Matters

Being late is never a good look. Arrive 15 minutes early for in-person interviews. For virtual meetings, log in 5 minutes ahead to test your setup. Every action you take reflects your professionalism and reliability. Remember; how you do anything is how you do everything.”

Preparation and Materials

For in-person meetings, bring printed copies of your resume or an engaging, concise slide deck. If it’s a video interview, send materials a day in advance. Be ready to share compelling stories about your experience and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the role.

Energy and Passion Win Jobs

Show intellectual curiosity, humor, and enthusiasm. Engage actively, lean into the conversation, and let your excitement for the role and company shine through. Employers notice and value candidates who bring authentic energy and commitment.

Polish and Presentation

The details matter. Your attire and posture signal how seriously you take the opportunity. Even the shine on your shoes or the neatness of your background on video can have an impact. Presentation speaks volumes.

Know Your Value

During interviews, ask about the company’s challenges and opportunities. What problem is this role meant to solve? Be prepared to articulate what makes you a valuable addition to the team. Avoid overused phrases like “I’m a team player” or “I get frustrated easily.” Instead, connect your unique skills and experiences to the organization’s goals through specific, relevant examples. Reviewing the company’s culture section is an obvious way to gain insight here.

Final Thoughts

Interviews are your chance to blend professionalism with personality. Be prepared, dress for success, and approach the process with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a clear sense of your worth.

And yes—for in-person meetings, shine those shoes and clean that suit. For video interviews, be mindful of how you look on screen, adjust your lighting, and check your background. First impressions matter more than you think. Remember; how you do anything is how you do everything !

Happy interviewing!