Some people’s enthusiasm is infectious – it bubbles over whenever they speak about a topic they love, like their work. For others, however, showing this excitement doesn’t come naturally; their voices and behavior are more subdued, no matter how passionate they are.

If you’re in the second group, you might find it tougher to demonstrate your passion during a job interview. Here’s how to demonstrate your enthusiasm without having to fake a new persona:

1. Share stories of your accomplishments. “Show, don’t tell”: This age-old advice for writers is great for job interviews as well. Instead of saying “I’m a team player” or “I like to take the lead on major projects,” share stories from your past work that show you taking on these roles. Use the job description as a guide to the essential skills and abilities the employer is looking for, and choose stories that show you using these skills and abilities in real-world work settings.
2. Use body language to communicate to the interviewer and yourself. Using nonverbal cues deliberately both communicates your interest to the interviewer and helps you practice confidence, which can make you feel more confident. Focus on maintaining an “open” body position: leaning forward, making eye contact, smiling, and nodding as the employer speaks during the interview. You’ll be demonstrating your interest in a subtle but powerful way, and paying deliberate attention to your behavior can help you feel more in control of your body – and thus of your nerves – during the interview.
3. Ask open-ended questions. People who are naturally reserved or introverted often make fantastic listeners. Listening is an essential but often overlooked part of communication. To leverage this skill in your interview, prepare several open-ended questions that call for more than just a “yes” or “no” answer. “What do you like most about working here?” can get the employer talking, giving you the chance to listen – and to learn a great deal about the company’s internal culture, so you can decide whether this position is right for you.

At SMR Group, our experienced recruiters can help you find an outstanding sales or marketing position in the pharmaceutical, medical device, or biotech industries. Contact us today to learn more.