How to Connect With Any Hiring Manager's Personality Type
The Secret to Connecting With Hiring Managers in Interviews š¤«
A client named Jarrod recently asked me: "Is there a way to figure out and understand a hiring manager's personality, so I can better connect with them during job interviews?"
It's an excellent question! As a career coach, I get asked all the time about how to ace job interviews and connect with hiring managers. Today, I'm going to let you in on a secret strategy that can hugely improve your chances of interviewing success.
The 4 Workplace Personality Types
The first thing you need to understand is that there are four main personality types you'll encounter in the workplace:
Commanders - Reserved, direct communicators with a controlled intensity
Contemplators - Reserved, thoughtful, precise communicators
Energizers - Outgoing, high-energy "team captain" types
Empathizers - Inclusive, supportive, calming communicators
Knowing which type you're interviewing with is key because you can then adjust your behavior to better "mirror" and connect with their personality style.
Reading Their Cues š
Commanders and Contemplators will have more reserved body language and facial expressions. But you can tell them apart because Commanders speak more forcefully, while Contemplators come across as more pensive.
Energizers and Empathizers are both more animated. Energizers have that "gung-ho" enthusiasm, while Empathizers prioritize making you feel comfortable and included.
You can even get clues from their office/surroundings, like:
Commanders: Sparse, organized decor
Contemplators: Precise, tidy workspace
Energizers: Inspirational quotes, awards on display
Empathizers: Cozy touches like snacks, stuffed animals
Flexing Your Style
Now, let's say you're an Empathizer interviewing with a Commander. You'll need to be more succinct and not take their seriousness personally. If you're a reserved Contemplator meeting with an Energizer, be ready to smile more and match their exciting energy.
The trick is not to change who you fundamentally are, but to flex your communication style so it mirrors and connects with theirs. This creates chemistry and rapport.
The Free Quiz That Reveals Your Type š§āš»
Still feeling unsure about personality types? No problem! I've got a free, insightful assessment tool called the Interaction Styles Quiz that will reveal your own communication style AND give you expert tips for flexing your approach.
Just click the link, enter your email, and you'll get your detailed results. Simple as that!
Start Connecting, Start Succeeding
Understanding these personality dynamics can be a total game-changer when it comes to nailing interviews, Jarrod. When you make that small adjustment to vibe with the interviewer's style, it creates an instant connection. They'll feel like you really "get" them.
And at the end of the day, isn't that what every hiring manager wants? Someone who can collaborate effectively and be a great cultural fit for their team?
If you want more personalized, premium help mastering all aspects of the job hunt, check out Work It DAILY's 7-day FREE trial. Our career coaches provide expert guidance to ensure you become an unstoppable interviewing machine!
Go get āem!
J.T. OāDonnell
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