The dangers of emotional acting - in interviews (and in life).

In job interviews there is a particular madness that happens. Many of us resort to emotional acting—projecting fake emotions to impress. While it might seem clever to appear overly enthusiastic or confident, this strategy often backfires.

Here’s why emotional acting is detrimental and what to do instead.

Why Emotional Acting Fails

1. Erodes Trust: Interviewers are laser focused in spotting insincerity, if they spot anything fake, it leads to overall doubts about you.
2. Inconsistent Performance: Keeping up a façade is exhausting and can lead to missteps.
3. Missed Connection: Fake emotions create barriers, preventing genuine rapport.
4. Misrepresentation: Landing a job based on a false persona leads to dissatisfaction and poor fit in the long run.

Instead tune into the genuine emotions you have about the job, which are probably different than the emotions you have about the interview. 

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Self-Awareness: Know you.  This includes your strengths, skills and purpose. Genuine enthusiasm is so much more convincing.

2. Honest Preparation: Understand the job and how your experiences align with it. Speak to the contact person and take time to really imagine what a day in the life of the person in the role would look like.

3. Mindfulness: Stay present to reduce anxiety and avoid slipping into emotional acting.

4. Genuine Excitement: Do things in the lead up to the interview that genuinely lift your positive emotions - music, exercise, laughter...

5. Realistic Positivity: Share your genuine excitement about the role without exaggeration.

6. Engage Curiosity: Take your time to listen actively and respond thoughtfully to show true interest.  It is impossible to feel anxiety and curiosity at the same time.

Be Real, Stand Out

Authenticity builds trust and connection, making you memorable and ensuring a true fit, whether in a job or in life. Ditch the emotional acting and let your real self shine. This approach not only helps in landing jobs but also in forming meaningful relationships and leading a fulfilling life.

The real you is totally enough.

As always, wishing you a flourishing career.

Katherine