Them: “Hey, just be yourself.”
You: “Why would I do that? I don’t want them to know what I’m really like.”
An easy mistake to make. After all, you’re not particularly interesting, are you? You’re not really good at anything – and I mean really good – but you want to put across a professional, credible face to nail that presentation, or make it through the meeting, or get that funding. Or all three (you show-off).
But you’re wrong. Because your experience of the world is different to other people’s and is therefore interesting to them*. Your perspective, your background, your aptitudes, they’re all different to other people’s, by some degree.
It can feel counter-intuitive to let people see the real you, particularly in a business situation.
What’s the Difference?
They might be interested in your product or service, your abilities and your experience. But between a group of individuals who are all equal on paper – and I’m thinking of the interview situation here in particular – why are you there? What sets you apart?
Your true character.
Throw Away All Pretence
Do you genuinely get on well with people**? Or can you be a bit of a pain the arse?*** Will you stay late? Like to help other people? Are you motivated by a true desire to help the world, or is your greatest aim to get that shiny car and a massive flat overlooking Hyde Park?
Let it all out. If they dislike you because of who you are then that’s far better than their attraction to a false ‘you’ whose identity you’ll be unable to maintain. Don’t be so self-effacing; you have very interesting qualities and experience and you need to let them shine through. Makes things a lot easier, and makes you a whole lot more attractive to the right people.
* If they’re an intelligent, well-rounded individual, that is. One who knows that there is something to be learned from everyone and every situation.
** If you’re a manager then this can sabotage your career.
*** Whereas this can actually be a good thing.
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