It’s easy to fake your way through an interview.
Just say what you think the other person wants to hear.
The problem is that you aren’t as good of a liar as you think. Anyone with experience on the other side of the table will see straight through your hollow answers.
And even if they don’t, what have you just done for yourself?
You’ve committed to coming to work everyday, acting like someone you aren’t. And you’ve committed to working for someone who is willing to accept a fake answer.
The simplest example is the classic question, “What’s your greatest weakness?”
You can find countless opinions on the way that you “should” answer this question. But my solution is simple – the truth.
When I’m asked this question, I explain that I’m not the type of person who can be content doing the same thing every day. I thrive off of new challenges.
That’s great because it drives me to learn new things and it keeps me engaged, but it also means that I can stretch myself too thin. I tend to commit to more things than I can take on, and I can let the new, exciting opportunities take away from my ability to execute on my daily tasks.
I explain the processes I’ve put in my life to help me focus on the most important things. But I admit that I also realize this is something I’ll always struggle with. It’s part of who I am.
I take this approach because it’s real. The authenticity comes through and it gives the other party a glimpse into who I am. It also shows that I’m self-aware and humble enough to admit to my shortcomings.
Ultimately, I want to put my best foot forward, but I’m also looking for a two way relationship. I want the other party to be comfortable working with the real me, and I want to work with the type of person who’s willing to accept the truth.
I use interviewing as an example since it’s easy to relate to, but this is the same approach I use for any persuasive conversation I have.
Whether I’m agreeing to business terms, asking someone for help, or talking with friends; the honest answer has repeatedly proven to be better than the “right” answer.
-Brandon