Personality – The Crucial Intangible of a Job Interview

When interviewing a job applicant, the employer is looking for someone who meets the requirements of the position and the needs of the company. They are looking for thoughtful and concrete answers to their questions to show that you have the experience necessary to be successful in the position. However, there is still one very important component that the interviewer is also looking for. This is the  component that can make or break your chances of getting hired. This component is your personality. 

Employers want to see how you will fit into the culture of the company. They want to get a feel for what it would be like to work with you on a day to day basis. This judgment can often be just as important as your qualifications. You may very well go into the interview fully prepared, ready to show that you are the best fit for the role, and that you are exactly what they are looking for. Although, even if you check all of the boxes on paper, it may not be enough. If you don’t ‘click’ with the interviewer, they very well may choose someone else for the job.

It’s easy to forget to show your personality in an interview, as it can often be a stressful experience. People are more focused on saying the right thing, and they can forget to just be themselves. It is important to remember though,  that interviewers typically know  how nerve racking it can be to sell yourself and your abilities to a stranger. Employers are generally forgiving of the slip up of words and awkward silences that these nerves can create. While you may not be able to eloquently articulate everything on your mind, don’t be too hard on yourself.  Be professional, but let your personality shine through.

 If you are not a naturally extroverted, charismatic person,  there are many ways to let your personality show in the interview.

Smile, Smile, Smile

This is key and so important when connecting with the interviewer. In general, most jobs involve interacting with other people – and people want to work with friendly people! It seems basic, but you will leave a much better impression if you are able to make good eye contact and smile throughout your interview.

Show Enthusiasm

You do want this job, right? Employers want to hire someone who is excited about the opportunity, and eager to get started. If you don’t appear to be interested and enthusiastic in the interview, the interviewer may question your commitment and interest to this position. They may hire a similarly qualified person who actually seems like they are ready to get started.

Body Language

Be aware of how you are presenting yourself. During the interview, you will need to make sure that you are sitting up straight. Avoid crossing your arms and try not to nervously tap your foot or bounce your leg. Overall, aim for a relaxed, professional, and approachable vibe. This will put you at ease, and it will let the interviewer know that you are comfortable and confident in your abilities. 

Focusing on these actions can make all the difference in your job interviews. Contact us for more interview tips.

Recommended For You: 

Who is NEXTAFF? We are locally owned and operated staffing offices devoted to our communities, clients, and candidates throughout the United States. For more job tips and ideas, contact us. We are always hiring, so if you or someone you know is looking for work, check out our job board below and apply today! We are able to service all your staffing agency needs with local staffing offices in Sacramento-CA, Sonoma County-CA, Des Moines-IA, Raleigh-NC, Shawnee-KS, Topeka-KS, Detroit-MI, Kansas City-MO, Gulf Coast-MS, Phoenix-AZ, Miami-FL, Harrisburg-PA, Jackson-TN, Beaverton-OR, Pittsburgh-PA, and North Dallas-TX.

{{cta(‘d32846d5-587b-4c3e-b397-d4da97690e8a’)}}

We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on
our website, to analyze our website traffic, and to understand where our visitors are coming from.

Meet Shane...

Shane’s journey with Nextaff began in 2019, when he established a successful franchise in the Kansas City metro area. His experience as a Nextaff franchise owner provides prospective buyers with a completely transparent view of the Nextaff Franchise Opportunity. Prior to his time at Nextaff, Shane led large sales teams in the Financial Services and Medical Device industries, further developing his expertise in leadership and business management.

Do you play sports?

Basketball! I was fortunate enough to play college basketball all 4 years and in 2013 we won the NCAA DII National Championship.

What do you love most about your current role?

Getting to know prospective franchise buyers. I love hearing about their goals and dreams they want to achieve through entrepreneurship.

What is your favorite color?

Orange! Yes, it is one of Nextaff’s main colors but it was my favorite before coming to Nextaff. In the franchising world, I’m known as “Orange pants guy”.

Meet Cary...

When it comes to operating a staffing firm, Cary has worn every hat.  From recruiting, to sales, to management, to ownership, he has been involved in every aspect of running a successful staffing business.  He has successfully led three separate companies to the Inc. 500 and Inc. 5000 lists, which puts him in an elite class of staffing entrepreneurship.  Combining that experience with a strong passion for entrepreneurs makes Cary an ideal leader for driving the Nextaff vision. 

Describe yourself in three words.

Loyal, Driven, Creative

Is there a mantra or affirmation you live by?

Do what you said you were going to do.

Do you have a celebrity doppelganger?

Back in the day, it was John Cusak.  “I want my two dollars!”