Adarsh's Guide to Cybersecurity, AI and CAREER Advancement

Interviews can be both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. However, if you find yourself failing to close the job offers even after performing well, it’s essential to analyze and identify the underlying reasons. I have interviewed tons of candidates over the last 15 years. In this post, I will explain the most critical factor that could be hindering your interview success. By understanding and addressing this, you WILL significantly increase your chances of acing your next job interview.

The most overlooked element that can make or break an interview is emotional intelligence (EI). What is Emotional intelligence? It is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions—both others’ and yours. Especially yours. It plays a crucial role in building rapport, demonstrating adaptability, and effectively communicating your qualifications and potential as a candidate. Let’s explore the key scenarios where emotional intelligence is crucial in job interviews.

1. Building Rapport: Employers seek candidates who can establish a positive connection during interviews. By demonstrating empathy, active listening, and genuine interest in the conversation, you can build rapport with the interviewer. For example, acknowledging the interviewer’s insights or asking thoughtful questions about the company culture shows your emotional intelligence at play.

2. Handling Stressful Situations: Job interviews can be stressful for both parties involved. Candidates who can effectively manage their emotions during high-pressure situations demonstrate emotional intelligence. For instance, maintaining composure, staying confident, and addressing challenging questions with poise highlight your ability to handle stress constructively.

3. Demonstrating Empathy: Empathy is a vital trait that showcases your ability to understand and relate to others’ perspectives. During an interview, putting yourself in the employer’s shoes can help you tailor your responses to align with their needs. This demonstrates your emotional intelligence by showing that you can adapt and understand the employer’s pain points.