11 Psychological Tricks For Job Interviews To Get You Hired

Congratulations! You have been shortlisted for an interview. The nerves take over within a few minutes of hearing this good news. Acing an interview is a tough nut to crack. You googled top 5 tips for job interviews. 

You have researched the company and studied their vision, mission, and challenges. You have written down 3 to 5 smart questions to ask the interviewer to show that you have done your homework. 

You have practised the top 10 interview questions to master your answers. Acing an interview is not limited to answering 'Tell me about yourself' or 'what are your greatest strengths'. 

The job interviewers notice your body language, eye contact, communication style, dressing and energy levels, and then your answer to "Tell me about yourself". 

First impression is most of the time the final decision when it comes to interviews. So focus on making a powerful first impression.

11 Psychological Tricks For Job Interviews To Get You Hired

1. Make the best of the first three seconds. Humans decide if they like you or trust you in the initial seconds of meeting you based purely on your posture and handshake.

2. Subtly copy their body language. This psychological trick forces the interviewer to see you as an ally and lower their guard.

3. When asked, "What are your weaknesses?", never say "I work too hard". Name a real, minor flaw like you binge a lot on sweets. Follow it up by how you are actively fixing it.

4. Flip the power dynamic. By asking them smart questions early on, you shift from being interrogated to holding a conversation. It shows you are good at engaging people.

5. Take deliberate pauses. Wait for two seconds before answering a question. Do not inhale deeply or squirm in your chair. Maintain a relaxed body language. Speak calmly and thoughtfully.

6. Dress professionally. Wearing dark navy blue and black subconsciously projects leadership and trustworthiness. Avoid orange and yellows. Dress sharp, ironed clothes. The best is if you dress the role.

7. Keep nodding slightly when they speak. This psychological trick shows you are engaged in the conversation and listening attentively. It also makes them talk more, making them feel connected to you.

8. Use 'We', not 'I'. Speak about your past wins using 'we' to showcase you are a teamplayer who isn't after credits. You see success as a collaborative effort at workplace.

9. Find a common interest early on. Mention a sport or hobby or your favourite activities without coming across as bragging. If they happen to like it too, they will instantly build a rapport with you.

10. When asked, "Where do you struggled in your previous role?", never tell your past failures as mistakes. Present them as your learning curves. 

11. The last thing you say is remembered the most. It is known as the recency effect. Always end your interview on a positive and high note. A firm handshake and a confident smile followed by thank you for your time.