None of my personality shines through during interviews

My default professional demeanor does not show any form of personality whatsoever. I am very good at concealing personality and the way I talk and express myself has always been extremely matter-of-fact and no-nonsense. I never really smile during interviews, and I am typically very serious. People who know me best have always told me that I speak with a lot of authority and that I am extremely intelligent. However, at times, I can be short-tempered, very headstrong, and stubborn. How do I display a more likable persona? Any advice is greatly appreciated.

9 Comments
 

not necessarily imo, some people just have lower social intelligence/awareness....

OP - try comedy, alcohol, friends, or some combination of the above - if all else fails, I'm sure there are firms with a stuffy, tight culture which you'll fit right in

also recommend "How to win friends and influence people" by dale carnegie

"They say money can't buy happiness? Look at the fuckin' smile on my face. Ear to ear, baby!" - Boiler Room
 

Which firms come to your mind in this regard? By the way, I heard Russians like to keep a straight face especially when dealing with business matters. Would you suggest I work with people who believe that it is the norm to keep a straight face in business?

 

Actually, in my opinion, it is beneficial to have a serious demeanor in business settings. No need to show personality. Just be direct and matter-of-fact.

I think lack of social behavior is beneficial outside of business settings too. For instance, not feeling the need to socialize works out to one’s own benefit. I am not really interested in really changing myself. I am just asking for “fake it till you make it” kind of advice.

Also, I have no problems having fun communicating with older and more mature people. The only times when I had any problems with communication is with people who are closer to my age group.

 
Most Helpful

Is authoritarian the first word that comes to mind when your friends are asked to describe you? Instead of trying to "display" a more likable persona, I would perhaps think of other careers where being likable wasn't such a big deal instead of forcing yourself to go into IB.

If you have a low tolerance for no-nonsense and extremely matter-of-fact POV you're gonna be very frustrated when you are selling a sub-par company with negative post-corona adjusted EBITDA and a poor management. I would look into some of the more technical desks within a bank, such as exotics structuring, options desks etc., which may suit your persona more.

I don't know... Yeah. Almost definitely yes.
 

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