First Person: When Interviewing Is Like Dating

It is amazing how your perspective changes as you get older. I am closer to 40 than 20 and I've never been married. I'm single, I don't have any children, and lucky for me, I've had my fair share of dates. Because I have been working since I was 16, I've also had my fair share of interviews. In both cases, I've grown over the years and I can honestly say that I've learned a lot.

I was thinking about some of my recent encounters as a single woman and it dawned on me as I reflected upon one conversation in particular- dating and interviewing share some interesting similarities! Over the years, I've found the following to be true in both dating as well as interviewing. Hopefully you will keep the following in mind if you are dating and/or interviewing.

Try to always look your best: Appearance is important when you meet someone and it is important throughout the course of a relationship. The same holds true when you've been scheduled for an interview. I always invest additional time in my appearance when I'm attending an event that I am looking forward to. The reason for this is because I want those in attendance to see me at my best. Regardless of whether you are going on a date or interviewing, always present your optimal self.

Be interested and interesting: Not too often, but every now and again, boredom invades my life. When that happens, I create my own party or I contact a few friends to rescue me from the unwelcomed invasion! I've been on dates that were boring and communication with the individual ceased shortly thereafter. I can honestly say that I was bored because the gentleman wasn't interesting to me, which means that he couldn't keep my attention. In an interview setting, candidates must be able to keep the attention of those conducting the interview. You should answer questions in a way that engages your audience and ultimately captures their attention.

Plan ahead: I love spending time with someone who has taken an active interest in me and has planned something that both of us can enjoy during our date. Planning is a proactive behavior that I live by because it allows me to accomplish a task. It also makes adjusting easier when/if I need to. Not only will I plan dates for my special someone, but I always plan for an interview. My rationale for this is simple- I feel confident when I am prepared. This same confidence is evident whether you are interviewing or dating and people are attracted to confidence.

Honesty counts: My mother used to always say, "I can't stand a liar" and I find myself saying the same thing! When a person lies to me, I find it hard to believe what they say. Unfortunately if I can't believe what you say, then I certainly can't trust you. I don't want to date someone that I can't trust and I prefer not to hire someone who's untrustworthy. Employers can usually tell if you are dishonest during an interview and if you lie on your application, there's a great chance that you will be terminated. Honesty still is the best policy-in both dating and in interviewing.

Be punctual: It is important to be on time for a date and for an interview. I understand that things happen, but when you show up late, without a phone call and a valid reason, my opinion of you will change. Being late means that you don't respect my time and perhaps you are a procrastinator. Disrespect isn't favorable for an employee or someone that I'd like to date. If I've scheduled an interview with you and you're not on time, I feel as though you will be tardy for work more often than not. By this time, I am thinking that your tardiness is unprofessional and that I can't hire you.

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