Job Interview Survival Tips for Introverts

Most people are intimidated by interviews, but for introverts, interviews can be nerve-wracking and emotionally draining. In this article we share our best interview survival tips for introverts. We’ll help you ace your interview, so you can land that new position. 

Understand and manage your energy

Extroverts are energized by spending time around people, while introverts are drained by spending time around people. As an introvert, it’s important that you understand and manage your social energy. If possible, plan your interview on a day when you don’t need to do a lot of socializing before or after your interview. If you need to work a partial day that day, plan tasks that you can do alone or with one other person. Avoid planning an interview on the same day as your company Christmas party or your niece’s birthday party.

Spend extra time researching the company

Spending extra time researching researching the company will help you be prepared. Read as much as you can find on the company website, social media pages, and review sites.

Practice and prepare for common interview questions

Know what to say if you get stuck

Have a go to phrase in mind, such as “Could we circle back to this question in a few minutes?” or “Could I have a few minutes to think about my answer?” Of course it is ideal to have answers ready for any interview question you receive. However, if your mind freezes mid-interview, using one of these phrases is better than total silence.

Ask questions in advance

Most companies will provide you with details when they schedule the interview. If not, ask a few simple questions about what to expect. Who will be interviewing you? Will you be completing a skills assessment on the same day? Will you be participating in a group interview with other candidates?