Why You Should Treat A Date Like A Job Interview
When was the last time you really aced an interview? I mean, really knocked it out of the park and you knew you’d get a call back?
Now when was the last time you had a really great date? I’m talking electricity in the air and stars in your eyes, totes-amaze-balls type of date.
These uncharted COVID-19 days have torn people apart, brought people together, forced people out of work, and made them start furiously re-working their resumes to survive the times.
This got the DNC team thinking that a good date and a successful interview aren’t too dissimilar… although I’d pity and marvel any reader who goes in for a bit of tongue after showing off their portfolio.
Interviewer: Well that’s all we have to discuss, do you have any questions?
Interviewee: Yes, can I suck on your face for a hot minute?
So rather than treat your job interview like a date, what if you treated your date like a job interview? Think about it, you got to dress for success, right? Put your best foot forward, make a good impression and wow an interview panel of one.
Employment experts say that the interview process gets easier with experience and just going for an interview with the intention of getting the job drastically builds your confidence. I suspect it’s the same for dating, but how does one go about it? From someone who’s been hired a few times and even employed people in a previous life before my China days, here’s my advice on the matter.
1. Be Punctual
Arrive on time - no one likes a tardy date. I used to be really bad at this and show up late to nearly every date. It was salvaged by lots of good conversation and even better wine, but it’s not a great start. If you know you’re tardy, get ready early so you’re ready to go!
2. Be Confident, Not Cocky
If your date hasn’t stood you up, there’s a chance they’re keen to spend some time with you. There’s also a good chance they may be as nervous as you. If the night doesn’t go to plan – like if your favorite restaurant is suddenly closed or you have to change plans last minute – don't sweat it, be decisive! It’ll show initiative. Although too much swagger will make you look arrogant, so be careful. (Unless you naturally are arrogant, and in that case then just do you, I guess).
3. Talk Yourself Up But Don't Lie
Hopefully through the course of a stimulating conversation you can talk about your strengths, passions and positive attributes. Conversely, be honest about your weaknesses or areas for improvement because it shows personal growth. However, I tend to be a bit of an over-sharer. Sometimes I wish I’d keep my big mouth shut and save some things for date 2 or 3!
4. Listen, Listen, Listen
This one is so important I’m not going to muddy it with flowery pontification. PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR DATE!
5. Share Life Goals
People like people with ambition. It’s inspiring and it shows that you say “yes” to life. Now, it’s OK if you don’t have any grand designs just yet. You don’t need to take over the world to show drive, you just need to show that you know which way is forward and that you’re keen on moving there one day.
6. Be Respectful And Read The Room
With a bit of effort, body language isn’t too hard to read, but often you’ll get cues as to whether the date is going well - smiles, laughs, intimate contact and lingering stares. Even if someone is shy, the signs that someone is engaged are usually there so be observant… without looking like a weirdo.
Point No. 6 brings me to my final musing. A date may end with a handshake, a hug a kiss or maybe more and a coffee and breakfast. Whatever the situation, play it cool. If your date says they’re going to call you, then give them a chance to call you.
That being said, there’s nothing wrong with sending a courtesy message saying how much you enjoyed the interview, erm, I mean date. I guess it depends how badly you want the position!
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