Monday, April 16, 2012

How to speak in an interview: Talker personalities

We're to the final personality profile. The Talker. If the person interviewing you has a talker personality, look out. Talker's are called talker's for a reason, because they can gab. That can throw you off your game, so make sure you stay focused. Talker's are by nature extremely warm and friendly, which can help you relax. Don't be deceived though, their inviting disposition can be a trap. Many people get more liberal with what they say and do when communicating with a talker because of that disposition. You might say some things that you regret because they made you feel like you could be brutally honest.

Here's some tips on how to handle this. First and foremost, reciprocate their overly amicable nature. Compliment them often. Don't be patronizing when you do it, be genuine about what you compliment. Don't go overboard or they'll feel you're both patronizing and disingenuous.

Second, be very expressive. Use gestures. Exaggerate your facial expressions a little. They'll interpret this as passion, which is what a talker will look for.

Third, talk in terms of what compels you, not obligations and duty. For example, say I "enjoy it," or "I helped them do this," instead of  "It was part of the job," and short emotionless answers like "I did this or that." The former express that you feel an inner passion. 

In summary, be overly friendly, be passionate and expressive, but don't go overboard. Be genuine. Most importantly, talker's are more focused on the feeling they get about you. So make sure it's genuine and positive.

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