7 Weird Job Interview Tips

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Whether you’re full-time or part-time, a solopreneur or an independent contractor, a master of the gig economy or looking for a new career, you will find yourself in the interviewing process at one point or another.

In addition to coming prepared with the best questions to ask in a job interview, you my want to consider these weird interview tips.

Wear color

About a month ago, I made a new rule: I’m no longer allowed to buy black or gray clothes. The rainbow style makeover has had an unexpected impact: People respond to me more positively. It seems that when you wear color, people think you are happy.

Meditate strategically

In reality, the interview isn’t about you — it’s about them. Are you a good fit for their company? Spend 15 minutes before you leave for your interview mentally projecting yourself into the mind of the person who’ll be interviewing you. This will push you out of narcissism and into empathy. What will make them hire you?

Create a character

I used to be on TV. Initially, the idea of being on TV made me very anxious. I dealt with that by creating a character. What character would your future boss hire? The creative wunderkind, the risk-taking strategist, the marketing genius? Decide what that person looks like, talks like, acts like. Be that person for the duration of the interview. You can go back to being you afterwards.

Pick a time

According to this Glassdoor post, the best time to interview is 10:30 a.m. on a Tuesday. On the other hand, this post on ScienceDaily suggests you’re best off being the first in line, scoring subconscious privileged status. The worst: the start of the day on Monday, when hirers want to get to work, and the end of the day on Friday, when they want to go home.

Grow an inch

My biggest asset in a job interview: I’m tall (6’1″). Statistically, taller people make more money. Before we open our mouths, we’re conferred more power, greater self-confidence, and higher status. Wear shoes that make you taller. Do yoga to stand straight. Don’t slouch — unless you want to be assumed less worthy.

Make ‘em laugh

If there’s one thing I've done in nearly every interview, it’s make the interviewer laugh at some point. The interviewing process doesn’t have to be dry, formal, and stressful. Laughter creates an emotional bond between you and the person you’re trying to get to like you.

Look smarter

The College of Optometrists claims glasses make you look smarter. Of course, they’re biased. Those who seek to overcome a bias — you’re young, you’re blonde, you’re inexperienced — can score extra perceived IQ points by donning a pair of specs.