5 ways to project enthusiasm in a job interview

Showing enthusiasm in a job interview can be the make-or-break factor in getting that position. In fact, nearly 47% of hiring managers say a candidate’s keen interest in the job is the most important factor in determining whether they get the new role.

Enthusiastic candidates are more likely to fit in, stay longer, and do great work. So, here are five ways to project excitement about the role throughout the job interview process:

1. ARRIVE EARLY

First, show up 10–15 minutes early for your interview. An early arrival demonstrates enthusiasm, shows respect for the interviewer, and helps you gather your thoughts so that you will come across as poised and prepared.

Coming early has other benefits, too. For an in-person meeting, arriving early gives you time to get settled, use the washroom, and go over your notes. (Just make sure you don’t arrive too early, as the interviewer may not be ready for you.) If the interview is virtual, these 15 minutes will allow you to check your technology, your lighting, and your background.

2. PRAISE THE COMPANY

When speaking to the hiring manager, share two or three things you love about their company. Do your research and write out your talking points. 

You might say, “I appreciate the way employees are encouraged to collaborate.” Or “I value your hybrid work policy. It makes sense and it’s what I am used to.” Or you might say, “I admire the leadership of this company. . . . I heard your CEO speak at a recent conference and he was inspiring.”

You might even ask the interviewer, “what attracted you to this firm?” This will give her a chance to speak about the company, and you an opportunity to reinforce something positive.

3. GET FIRED UP ABOUT THE JOB

Another important thing to share is why you would love to have the job. Don’t wait for the hiring manager to ask you why you are applying. Instead, have a script ready with the reasons you are excited about the position. It could be the leadership role you have been searching for, or the fact that it will draw on your expertise in AI. Whatever turns you on should be written out in advance and delivered as part of your interview narrative. Get these points out right away.

Share with the interviewer how important you understand the position is in the larger scheme of things. You might say “I know the critical role this position plays in the department and in the company’s communications with key audiences.”

Asking smart questions about the role is still another way to show enthusiasm in a job interview. You might say, “This is a newly created position. How were its responsibilities handled before?” Or you might ask ”Why has this position been created?” Questions like this show that you take the job and its role very seriously.

4. USE POSITIVE LANGUAGE

Throughout your conversation, make sure to be positive with your language. During your preparation, make a list of words and expressions that convey your enthusiasm for the role and show how well your qualifications fit the position. Use them in the interview.

Your list might include, “I love the fact that this company is leading the industry.”  Or “I like the scope of the job.” Or “I know this team has an excellent reputation.” Here are other possible expressions: “I believe that I have the qualities and experience you are looking for,” “I feel this is the perfect next step in my career.

Avoid negative or hesitant language, such as “I’m wondering,” or “I think,” or “I guess,” or “I’m not sure.” And avoid filler expressions like “um, “ah,” and other nonstarters like “that’s a good question.” Your role is to answer questions, not evaluate them.

5. SHOW OPEN BODY LANGUAGE

Convey enthusiasm in a job interview with open body language. The physical signals you give can matter as much as what you say.

During the conversation your face should have a warm, animated expression, but don’t overdo it. When you are talking or when the interviewer responds to what you’ve said, hold your eye contact.

Sit with an upright posture. Keep your shoulders back and your chin up. Slouching suggests a lack of enthusiasm. Having great posture displays confidence, and that’s the image you want to portray during the discussion with your potential employer.

Keep your arms open, and gesture with your full arms, not with smaller hand gestures. And never fold your arms—doing so will look like you are arming yourself (literally), and that comes across as defensive.