Never take yourself too seriously

One of the last things I always try to tell a candidate before an interview is to just be yourself.  Sure you want to research the company.  It is absolutely a good idea to consider answers to basic interview questions.  Even trying to learn about who you will be interviewing with is a swell idea.  But at the end of the day they are hiring you, so why try to be someone you aren't??

Take this picture for example.  This is from last Friday's ugly sweater party we had at our office.  Right after we took this picture we went out for lunch as a group.  Was it silly?  Absolutely.  Did we have a tremendous amount of fun?  You bet.  Did we get a few looks as we walked into the local restaurant?  Uh huh.  We also came back to the office and posted an update to our Facebook page.

Please don't hear what I'm not saying - I am not suggesting you head to the thrift store before your next interview to buy a leisure suit for the interview just to express yourself in a funny manner.  Instead think of what your best qualities are and how you can exhibit those during an interview.  Admit what your weaknesses are and consider how you are trying to improve on those.  Be honest with yourself in what you want in your next job and if the interview isn't heading in that direction that is okay.

As you consider reflecting over the holidays about the year that has passed and then move on to the possibility of New Year's resolutions or big changes in the year to come, remember to be yourself.  Even if it involves some silliness or unique characteristics.

Happy holidays and best wishes for a prosperous 2014!!