How to better interviews?

To make your interviews more conversational and engaging, here are some actionable tips based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Show Genuine Curiosity and Interest

   • Approach the interview like a consultant working on an engagement. Show curiosity about the role, ask thoughtful questions about the company, and demonstrate an understanding of the industry.
   • Prepare operating questions that highlight your knowledge and interest in the challenges the company faces.

2. Build Rapport Quickly

   • Start with small talk to warm up the conversation. Topics like sports, hobbies, or shared interests can help break the ice. For example, if you enjoy sports, mention it and ask if they follow any teams.
   • Mirror their body language subtly and maintain good eye contact to build subconscious rapport.

3. Be Prepared with Directed Questions

   • Have a list of efficient, directed questions ready. Decide your mission for the interview beforehand—whether it’s to gain industry insights, firm-specific knowledge, or career advice.
   • Avoid awkward silences by being ready to fill gaps in the conversation with follow-up questions or comments.

4. Practice Active Listening

   • Pay close attention to what the interviewer says and respond thoughtfully. Use affirming body language like nodding and smiling, and interject with phrases like “That’s interesting” or “I hadn’t thought of it that way.”
   • Let them talk about themselves and their experiences—it’s a great way to make the conversation flow naturally.

5. Be Confident but Not Overbearing

   • Maintain confident body language and a steady voice. Avoid filler words like “umm” or “uhh.”
   • Don’t overpower the conversation; balance confidence with humility to keep the tone professional and engaging.

6. Prepare Stories and Examples

   • Have a few memorable stories or witty anecdotes ready to share when appropriate. These can make you stand out as a personable and relatable candidate.
   • Relate your experiences to the role or the company’s values to show alignment.

7. Read Key Resources

   • Books like How to Win Friends and Influence People can help you refine your conversational skills. They emphasize listening, showing interest, and building connections—all crucial for interviews.

8. Practice and Reflect

   • Rehearse your answers to common questions and record yourself to refine your timing, phrasing, and structure.
   • After each interview, reflect on what went well and what could be improved to continuously enhance your approach.

By combining these strategies, you can create a more conversational and engaging dynamic in your interviews, making them enjoyable for both you and the interviewer.

Sources: Grateful Monkey Giving Back Pt. 1: Questions to Ask Interviewers, The Best IBD SA OCR, Interviews and FT Offer Conversion Posts on WSO, The 24 Interview Lessons I Learned on the Way to Getting My First Full Time Job, The Secret Weapon That Lets You Control the Job Interview