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Here’s a secret: interviewers are rooting for you. They want you to impress them. They want you to be a great fit for their open role. But they’re also responsible for making sure they don’t hire an ill-fitting candidate, just like you don’t want to accept a job that doesn’t suit you.
Even though a job interview can feel high stakes and unnerving, the first thing you should know is that you and your interviewers are actually on the same side. They are not trying to freak you out, stump you, or make you uncomfortable. They are just aiming to do their due diligence to ensure that you’ll be a fit if they hire you.
Here’s a couple of insights to consider from the professionals on the other side of the table.
Use Your Time Strategically
Recognize that the answers you share during your interview should complement the details you’ve already outlined. “[Y]ou do not need to tell the hiring manager or the recruiter about every task, duty, or responsibility you have ever performed, because your resume should capture most of this,” explained Turner Scott Rafter, senior HR business partner at the University of Colorado System Administration. “Instead, make sure to actively listen to the questions being asked so you can respond with information and answers that answer those questions. Before going super in depth on any experiences or stories, ask clarifying questions to make sure you understand what they are asking.”
Once you’re clear on what interviewers are seeking, shape targeted responses: “I suggest sticking to the STAR Model when answering interview questions — Situation, Task, Action, and Result,” Rafter explained. “Sometimes, you may only have a 20-minute screening interview with a recruiter, so it is important to use that time wisely to connect and to demonstrate how you are a strong candidate for them to consider.”
Let Go of Perfectionism
Perfectionism, and the belief that interviewers have an ideal answer in mind, can trip up candidates according to Cearra Sears, career development coach at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. “This mindset can create unnecessary pressure, especially if [candidates] feel like they didn’t provide the ‘right’ response. The reality is that interviewers aren’t always looking for a perfectly polished answer,” Sears explained. “What matters most is that you address all parts of the question thoughtfully and showcase your approach to handling the situation.”
Sears pointed out that “interviewers are more interested in understanding how you think, how you make decisions, and how you approach challenges. Don’t let the idea of a ‘perfect’ answer discourage you. Instead, focus on bringing your authentic self into your responses, and show excitement about the skills, stories, and perspectives you have to offer.”
Research Fosters Connection
Rafter recommended thoroughly reviewing the job description and the institution’s website before a phone screening or an in-person meeting. He also emphasized that checking LinkedIn may prove helpful in seeing where you may have connections with those who are employed at the institution. “It is important to learn about what the organization does, as this can help inspire you to come up with talking points about your interest in the role, why you applied, and what is exciting to you about the company or the job you applied to,” Rafter explained.
Having these talking points is a great way to connect with the interview team. “When a candidate being interviewed has a deep understanding about the company, they have thoroughly reviewed the job description to understand what the job requires, and they can adequately describe how they would perform in the role and support the mission of the organization, this can make a strong, positive impact with a hiring team,” Rafter said.
Authenticity Helps Them See You as a Potential Co-Worker
Sears described how authenticity can move the needle. She explained: “While it’s important to prepare for common questions, it’s equally valuable to share personal stories that highlight your strengths, achievements, and experiences that make you special. These moments of vulnerability, where you talk about times you were particularly proud of yourself, help interviewers see who you are beyond your resume. When you let your passion and enthusiasm come through, it allows them to feel your energy and commitment to the role and company.”
You want your interviewers to be able to picture you on their team, and passion helps drive that point. “Ultimately, you want them to see not just what you can offer, but who you are and how you will bring that energy to the team,” Sears added.
She emphasized that “while the interview is an opportunity to dive into your past experiences, what interviewers are really focused on is getting to know YOU, the person behind the resume. Yes, they want to hear about your skills and achievements, but they are also imagining how you will fit in with the team, company culture, and the role itself. They’re trying to understand how you’ll interact with others, how you’ll approach challenges, and whether your values align with the organization… Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through,” she said.
Find Your Calm
Interviews can feel stressful, but try to center yourself and remember that those on the other side of the table have been in your shoes. They appreciate that this is hard, and they are glad that you took the risk.
“Some guidance I always like to share with people before going into interviews is to be mindful or try to refrain from some things such as fidgeting, playing with their hair, looking down at their hands instead of the interview committee, etc.,” Rafter explained.
It can feel challenging to self-regulate in an interview, particularly when you are a neurodivergent job seeker; in that case, you may consider these tips as you prepare.
Bring Your “Hero Stories”
Sears noted that citing a single example to illustrate multiple points is a missed opportunity. “While it’s understandable to lean on a strong example that you’re comfortable with, it can start to sound repetitive and limit the conversation,” she said. “Using new stories keeps the interviewer interested and allows them to see a broader picture of who you are, rather than feeling like they’re hearing the same thing over and over.”
She recommended identifying your “hero stories,” anecdotes that demonstrate how you made a meaningful impact. “Aim for 5-7 unique stories that highlight different skills, and that can be adapted to answer a variety of behavioral questions,” she explained. “These stories should spark your enthusiasm and show off your passion and dedication for the role you’re seeking.”
Recognize Your Value
Rafter emphasized that being invited to an interview is a success. “I like to reframe the power dynamics around recruitment and hiring to empower applicants. If you have been selected for an interview, this means that the recruiter and hiring team are interested in you as a candidate and they want to learn more about you. Congratulations!! Being invited to participate in an interview is an exciting opportunity, and candidates should feel confident, because you do have desirable skills and experience that an employer is interested in.”
Embrace your role as a seeker, and be kind and compassionate to yourself. Job seeking is a challenging but worthy pursuit. You’ve got this!
