Types of Interviewers

I've had to go through many interviews over the past couple of months. Each one had its own unique flavor and style. It may be weird to say, but I've realized an interviewer fits into one of three categories. 

First, we've got the Serious Interviewer. Let's take Matt as an example. He's probably the stickler of his HR department. He's the type of guy that wears business professional to work every day, takes a five minute lunch break, and is excessively allergic to casual workplace relationships. He goes above and beyond and, worst of all, he wants you to do the same. Work is his wife, his child, and his overly pampered pet hamster. Matt's interview style is very rigid and straight forward. He never reacts to your answers, asks in-depth follow-up questions, and rarely smiles. It makes my palms sweaty and my blazer from 9th grade feel a smidge tighter than usual. When the whole thing is over I'm relieved. However, in hindsight, Matt's actually a funny guy. Don't take life too seriously y'all. 

Next we've got the Bored Interviewer. Let's say her name is Kelly. Good ol' Kelly reads like an open book. Her disinterest is written all over her face. She asks her questions like she'd reading off a script, then only half listens to my answers. She's looking at her nails, doodling in her notebook, or nodding absentmindedly when you tell her "a little bit about yourself" which is just a half-baked response because you never really know how to answer that question. Kelly doesn't really care. This is concerning because how is she going to make a decision about you if she's not even paying attention? It's not really my problem so I'll go on with the interview normally. If her acrylics really are more interesting than I am, maybe I need to buy a new personality or something. 

Last but not least, we have the Casual Interviewer. Perhaps her name is Addison. She's fun and outgoing and the first thing she does is ask about your day. Sure, she's a little too enthusiastic for a 9am interview but I appreciate her nonetheless. Addison's definitely an extrovert. If I couldn't tell from her five minute spiel about her poodle, I'd definitely be able to tell from the framed picture of her 700 best friends hanging in her office. One thing I appreciate about Addison is she's genuinely curious about your life and who you are as a person. I'll be honest. It does make the rejection a little tougher since you thought Addison was your friend. In the end, she's not your friend. She's just a talent acquisitions specialist doing her job. That's too bad. 

Interview season is tough but we're tougher! Full speed ahead my friends.