Interview Tip: Companies Hire People They Like

By Carl Mueller

All things being equal, companies hire people they like.

Obviously, skills are important and you are not likely to get a job just because you’re nice if you don’t appear able to do the job.

But given a qualified candidate who comes across as likeable and an equally qualified candidate who gives the hiring manager the impression that they are going to be a problem, the hiring manager will undoubtedly hire the likeable candidate.

It seems fairly obvious to state this but the question is really:

What makes one person come across as likeable and another person come across like a jerk?

Some people are just naturally likeable and immediately come across as such.

Some people give the impression of being aloof especially if they are quiet or detached and are perceived to be socially inept and as a result, not likeable.

Some people are good actors and can appear to be nice when they want something.

The point is that you make an impression during the interview process and the people you interview with make assumptions based on how you act and what you say.

When interviewing, always remember the following:

1. The hiring manager is determining not only if you can do the job but if you have the personality to get along with the other members of their group.

2. Being overly talkative during the interview might make you come across as being desperate or aggressive.

3. Being too quiet during the interview might give the impression that you are distant and aloof even if you’re not. This is an especially important point if the job you’re interviewing for requires a "talker."

4. Nobody likes desperation. If you appear really enthusiastic to the point of being desperate, most good interviewers will notice. No one wants to hire a desperate person. Enthusiastic, yes. Desperate, no.

5. Understand the difference between confidence and arrogance. One of the biggest turnoffs for most hiring managers is arrogant interviewees. On the other hand, you need to be confident of your abilities and you need to sell yourself during the interview. Walk a fine line between exuding confidence and arrogance.

Likeable (and qualified) people get jobs, it’s really that simple.

Likeable people are those who act naturally and let their true personality shine through.

Likeable people don’t try to be something they are not and they are comfortably confident but not arrogant.

Carl Mueller is an Internet entrepreneur and professional recruiter who wants to help you find your dream career.

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