By Jennifer Lopez, Arizona State University, Sociology. Jennifer is a Parents2Partners intern whose work and research focus on improving the school systems that serve students.
I used to believe there was one right way to interview and that I would have to adapt to fit it. After reading Interviewology, I realized that is a myth. There are four interview styles, all of them can be successful, and each of us shows traits of all four even when one is dominant.
The Charmer
The Charmer’s main priority is to be liked. Charmers are often seen as the most successful because they are outgoing and comfortable being themselves. Charm helps, but Charmers can come across as surface level and may be underprepared for questions about the real topic.
The Challenger
The Challenger’s main priority is to be respected. Challengers want their priorities acknowledged and their opinions heard, and they show their value through healthy skepticism and thought provoking questions. They need to remember that connecting with others is part of success.
The Harmonizer
Harmonizers are adaptable and collaborative, and they value being seen as agreeable. They may hesitate to take the lead so that everyone stays comfortable. Because interviews often touch heavy topics, Harmonizers do well to stay clear about what they need from the conversation.
The Examiner
This is where I think I fall. Examiners treat interviews like a test they want to ace, and their highest priority is precision. Reading that took me straight back to my mock interview, where I was anxious about sounding professional, remembering details, and being accurate. I had thought that was simply because the topic mattered so much. It turns out it is the role I take on in interviews, and it had pushed aside something I value deeply: leading with compassion and connection.
What I learned
Interview styles are as varied as personalities. Knowing my own style makes me a better interviewer and gives me more self awareness. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to interview with more confidence and see that their natural qualities are strengths.