Psychological Tricks to Land Your Dream Job

The way people train for job interviews causes them to think of an interview as an academic exercise. Job interviews are pictured as an exam, where questions are asked and the interviewee’s task is to provide the correct answer. People also conceive of them as an opportunity to show off one’s portfolio, or resume. However, a job interview is much more of a popularity contest than an academic evaluation.

Interviews are social engagements. As such, the interview is a psychological game. There is psychological pressure on you, as the interviewee. However, you can also use psychological tricks on the interviewer. These five psychological tricks will help you in an interview for your dream job.

Small Talk

All conversations have a natural course: They progress from shallow discussion to deep conversation. In an interview, this progression quickly goes from a handshake and greeting to the more meaningful, “Tell me about….” There is little time for small talk, so interviewees must capitalize on it immediately. Instead of replying with only a greeting, ask an open ended question. “Hello, how are you?” This works; however, asking about an interest is even better. If you can pick up on any interest of the interviewer, whether it is a class ring, picture or other clue, mention it immediately.

Interest

Making small talk is an important start, but it can be taken beyond a side comment. Show that you are interested in the interviewer. One ways is to demonstrate knowledge in their interest, even if it is rudimentary knowledge. This could be mentioning a school’s colors or that you attended the college’s rival. Another option is to ask questions about the interviewer’s interest. Remember, this is a social engagement. Get to know the interviewer as a person.

Compliment

Once you know a little about the interviewer, find something to compliment him or her about. It can be a little detail, such as something being worn, or it can be a major note, like the business’ organization. Everyone likes receiving a compliment. This will help you earn brownie points and ultimately land your dream job.

However, if you are offered a compliment, receive it with grace. Simply say, “Thank you.” There is no need to elaborate on how great a bargain your jewelry was, where you bought those shoes or how smart your children are. Similarly, do not reply immediately with a compliment, as that will look forced. Save your comment for later and show gratitude for the compliment you received.

Confidence

You have applied for the position and received an interview offer. Therefore, you must believe you are suited for the job, and someone else thought you might be as well. Be confident, because you are qualified. To boost your own confidence, imagine yourself receiving an offer after the interview. To show the interviewer confidence, make eye contact and have good posture.

Enthusiasm

As the interview progresses, you will have opportunities to speak about the company. Take these chances to show your enthusiasm for this specific position. The interviewer needs to understand that you want this position, not just a job with any company.

By the time you interview for your dream job, you have met the “academic” requirements. You have the necessary degree(s) and an impressive resume. The interviewer is trying to get to know you, and you must get them to like and respect you. There are many slight psychological tips to help you with this. These psychological tricks will help you in this social engagement, so you can land that dream job.