Interview interest means showing that you genuinely want this particular job—not merely any job. Translate your interest into the overlap between work you do well and work you enjoy. section 2.7
Make interest credible by connecting it to specific behaviors:
- Name several activities the role requires, then connect them to previous successes and genuine enjoyment. section 2.7
- Prepare numerous thoughtful questions that demonstrate curiosity, homework, experience, and excitement about the work. section 8.5
- Build rapport through attentive listening, preparation, enthusiasm, and sincere interest in the interviewer. section 8.14
- Reiterate interest calmly when the employer describes a delayed process, rather than applying pressure or boasting about alternatives. section 11.15
From indifference to targeted interest
When asked why he wanted the job, one candidate smirked and answered, “Why not?” A stronger response would identify relevant activities, explain previous success with them, describe genuine enjoyment, and connect that combination to the role. If asked to wait during the hiring process, reaffirm enthusiasm and briefly summarize the fit instead of announcing that other companies want him. section 2.7 section 11.15
| Message you receive |
Translation |
| “Excellent, thank you, that was a good answer.” |
I’m acknowledging that you finished your answer and taking a second to gather my thoughts before asking you my next question. |
| “We’re still interviewing other candidates and will let you know when we’re ready to move to the next step.” or “We will be going over the candidates with the hiring team and will then make a decision on next steps.” |
I do not yet know if you’ll be selected for the next round in the process. It could also mean: It’s doubtful that you’ll make it to the next round, so I’ll just give this general statement to let you down easy. You’ll probably get a decline by email in the coming days or weeks. |
Use the interview-message table to distinguish a neutral process update from a possible soft rejection and choose a measured response. section 11.15
