What Factors Seal the Deal in an Interview? What Do Employers Really Want ?
Chris Oliver
Director - AMR Recruitment - Property and Architectural Recruitment Specialist - matching people and companies within the Property Sector
?In today’s competitive job market, landing a job requires more than just qualifications and experience. Employers want candidates who not only meet the job requirements but also bring professionalism, charisma, and a genuine passion for the role. Interviews are as much about assessing personality and soft skills as they are about verifying technical expertise. But what exactly sets a candidate apart? Let’s dive into the factors that can seal the deal during an interview and explore what employers are really looking for in their ideal employee.
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1. First Impressions Matter: Professionalism and Likeability
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First impressions are formed within seconds, and they can set the tone for the entire interview. Employers are drawn to candidates who are professional yet approachable and likeable.
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How to Make an Impact:
?? ?????? Dress for Success: Wear attire that aligns with the company’s dress code—formal for corporate roles or business casual for more relaxed environments.
?? ?????? Firm Handshake: Begin and end the interview with a confident, firm handshake to convey self-assurance and professionalism.
?? ?????? Be Warm and Friendly: A smile and a polite demeanor go a long way in creating a positive impression. Show enthusiasm for meeting the interviewer and discussing the role.
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2. Non-Verbal Communication: The Power of Body Language
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Your body language speaks volumes about your confidence and attitude. Employers subconsciously evaluate how you carry yourself during the interview.
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How to Use Non-Verbal Cues Effectively:
?? ?????? Maintain Eye Contact: Consistent eye contact shows confidence, attentiveness, and engagement. Avoid staring, but look at the interviewer when listening or speaking.
?? ?????? Open Posture: Sit upright with your shoulders back to project confidence. Avoid crossing your arms, as it can appear defensive or closed off.
?? ?????? Controlled Gestures: Use hand movements to emphasize key points but avoid overusing them, as this can be distracting.
?? ?????? Nod and Smile Appropriately: Show that you’re actively listening and engaged in the conversation.
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3. Balance Professionalism and Likeability
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Employers want someone they can envision working with daily. While professionalism is critical, being approachable and relatable is equally important. They’re looking for someone who adds to the team dynamic without being overly formal or rigid.
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How to Strike the Balance:
?? ?????? Be Authentic: Show your personality, but keep your responses respectful and aligned with the professional setting.
?? ?????? Inject Positivity: Maintain an optimistic tone when discussing challenges or previous experiences. Avoid speaking negatively about past employers or colleagues.
?? ?????? Show Empathy: Reflect emotional intelligence by understanding the interviewer’s perspective and building rapport naturally.
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4. Follow-Up Etiquette: Stand Out After the Interview
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The interview doesn’t end when you walk out the door. Following up demonstrates professionalism, gratitude, and interest in the role—qualities that can tip the scales in your favor.
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How to Follow Up:
?? ?????? Send a Thank-You Note: Within 24 hours, send a personalized email thanking the interviewer for their time. Reference a specific topic you discussed to make it more memorable.
?? ?????? Reiterate Your Interest: Use the thank-you note to reinforce why you’re excited about the role and how you can contribute to the company’s success.
?? ?????? Be Patient but Proactive: If you don’t hear back within the expected timeframe, follow up politely to inquire about the status of your application.
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5. Confidence Without Arrogance
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Confidence is an attractive trait in any candidate, but overconfidence or arrogance can be off-putting. Employers want candidates who believe in their abilities while remaining humble and open to feedback.
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How to Convey Confidence:
?? ?????? Speak Clearly and Calmly: Avoid rushing through answers. Take a moment to organize your thoughts before responding.
?? ?????? Own Your Achievements: Share your accomplishments with pride, but acknowledge the contributions of others or your team where appropriate.
?? ?????? Be Honest About Weaknesses: When asked about your weaknesses, show self-awareness and discuss how you’re actively working to improve.
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6. Mastering Communication: Verbal and Non-Verbal Skills
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Clear, concise communication is a top priority for employers. Your ability to articulate ideas, respond thoughtfully, and engage in meaningful dialogue is crucial.
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Tips for Effective Communication:
?? ?????? Answer Questions Directly: Avoid rambling or going off-topic. Stay focused and provide relevant examples.
?? ?????? Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, team, or company goals. This shows your genuine interest and helps you stand out.
?? ?????? Adapt Your Tone: Match the formality and energy of the interviewer while maintaining professionalism.
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7. Preparation and Research
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Preparation is one of the easiest ways to demonstrate professionalism and enthusiasm. Employers can quickly spot a candidate who has done their homework.
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How to Prepare:
?? ?????? Research the Company: Understand its mission, values, products, and recent achievements. Mention these insights during the interview.
?? ?????? Review the Job Description: Be ready to discuss how your skills align with the specific requirements of the role.
?? ?????? Practice Your Responses: Rehearse common interview questions and answers, but avoid sounding overly rehearsed.
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8. Show Enthusiasm and Passion for the Role
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Employers want to hire people who are genuinely excited about the role and the company. Enthusiasm can often outweigh experience if the interviewer sees your eagerness to learn and grow.
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How to Demonstrate Passion:
?? ?????? Share Your Motivation: Talk about what excites you about the role and how it aligns with your career goals.
?? ?????? Show Energy: Let your excitement shine through your voice, expressions, and gestures.
?? ?????? Connect to the Company’s Vision: Explain how you see yourself contributing to the company’s mission or goals.
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9. Be Solution-Oriented and Proactive
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Employers are drawn to candidates who focus on solutions rather than problems. Demonstrating a proactive attitude shows that you can bring value to the team.
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How to Showcase This Trait:
?? ?????? Discuss Past Successes: Highlight times when you identified a problem and took steps to resolve it.
?? ?????? Offer Ideas: If appropriate, suggest ways you could contribute to solving challenges within the role.
?? ?????? Demonstrate Initiative: Share examples of when you went beyond your job description to achieve results.
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10. Resilience and Adaptability
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Today’s work environments are dynamic, and employers value employees who can adapt to change and bounce back from challenges. Resilience and flexibility are key indicators of a candidate’s long-term success.
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How to Highlight These Traits:
?? ?????? Share Stories of Adaptability: Discuss times when you successfully managed change, such as learning a new system or taking on unexpected responsibilities.
?? ?????? Show a Growth Mindset: Emphasize your willingness to learn, grow, and take feedback constructively.
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What Do Employers Really Want?
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At their core, employers want candidates who:
?? ?????? Bring Value: Possess the skills, knowledge, and attitude needed to make a meaningful contribution.
?? ?????? Are Dependable: Show professionalism, punctuality, and follow-through.
?? ?????? Fit the Team: Have the personality and emotional intelligence to collaborate effectively.
?? ?????? Exhibit Drive: Demonstrate motivation, passion, and a desire to grow with the company.
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Final Thoughts
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Sealing the deal in an interview requires a combination of preparation, confidence, and the ability to build a genuine connection with the interviewer. By mastering the basics—eye contact, a firm handshake, clear communication—and going the extra mile with thoughtful follow-up, you position yourself as a standout candidate.
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Remember, employers want more than just qualifications; they want someone who will contribute positively to their team and company culture. Approach every interview with authenticity, curiosity, and enthusiasm, and you’ll leave a lasting impression that could land you the job.