How to Make a Genuine Connection During an Interview

Interviews can be nerve-wracking for many people, with the pressure to make a positive impression on the hiring manager or recruiter. Often, job seekers default to a formal or reserved demeanour, which can make it difficult to establish an authentic connection. However, creating a genuine rapport during an interview can leave a lasting impression and help the interviewer envision you as a potential team member.

There are a few strategies you can use during an interview to establish a strong rapport with your interviewer. Here are some steps to help you create a memorable connection during your next interview:

Prepare with purpose

Preparation goes beyond researching the school and rehearsing answers to expected questions. Consider also preparing questions for the interviewer that show your interest in their experience and the workplace culture. On the day of the interview, ensure you are well-rested, have a balanced meal, and are dressed appropriately. Bringing a printed copy of your resume is also a professional touch that shows you are prepared.

Know your style

Understanding your communication style can help you highlight your strengths authentically. If you are more extroverted, focus on how your energy and ability to engage stakeholders can be an asset, while keeping your answers concise. If you are more introverted, emphasise your strong listening skills and calm demeanour in handling challenges. By aligning your responses with your personality, you will come across as more self-aware and genuine.

Remain calm and confident

For those who find conversations with new people daunting, rehearsing with a friend or family member can help alleviate nerves and build confidence. Remember, being selected for an interview means the employer sees potential in you. Trust your skills and experience and let them shine through when you approach the interview with a relaxed, authentic mindset.

Show interest in the interviewer

To build rapport, focus on the person in front of you, not just the job. Show genuine interest in the interviewer by remembering their name, asking about their role, and how their day has been. This small act of attentiveness can humanise the interaction and make the conversation feel more collaborative rather than transactional.

Be aware of your body language

Instead of adopting a rigid, formal posture, allow your body language to reflect your ease. Use natural gestures, maintain relaxed eye contact, and feel free to acknowledge if constant eye contact is difficult for you. Demonstrating comfort with your non-verbal cues reinforces authenticity and approachability.

Ask the interviewer questions

Interviews aren’t just about answering questions – they are also an opportunity for you to learn more about the role and the school. At the start, consider asking the interviewer about their experience, such as, “What do you enjoy most about working here?” This can turn the interview into a more engaging conversation. Asking thoughtful, relevant questions throughout the discussion helps foster a two-way dialogue and shows you are genuinely invested in the opportunity.

Choose a comfortable space for remote interviews

For remote interviews, ensure your environment is quiet, familiar, and free from distractions. If interruptions do occur, handling them with composure and ease will reflect well on your professionalism. Your ability to manage unexpected challenges calmly can leave a positive impression.

By following these suggestions, you’ll be more likely to establish a strong connection with your interviewer, leaving them with a lasting and favourable impression of you as both a candidate and a potential colleague.

This blog post “How to Make a Genuine Connection During an Interview” is adapted from Marlo Lyons articles How to Connect with a Job Interviewer and 4 Ways to Make a Connection with Your Interview; as well as the Indeed Editorial Team article 8 Ways to Make an Easy Connection with Your Interviewer.

https://hbr.org/tip/2024/09/how-to-connect-with-a-job-interviewer?registration=success
https://hbr.org/2024/09/4-ways-to-make-a-connection-with-your-interviewer 
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/connect-with-your-interviewer

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