If there was only one interview tip I could ever share, it’s the Pratfall Effect interview tip
I’ve lost count how many times I’ve heard “I’m just no good at interviews”. Apparently it doesn’t matter a jot what career experience or achievements that person has proudly achieved over their lifetime, or how many interview tips they consume, the interview can feel like an entirely different animal. And because it only crops up from time to time, that animal can feel frustratingly big, angry and ready to make a light meal of you in a heartbeat. Sound familar? Well, let me tell you something I share with my clients which I know can really help about with that imposter syndrome, the Pratfall Effect interview tip.
The research says you’re not on your own
A quick mooch around the research throws up some eye watering stats. One study found a whopping 93% of us experience anxiety before a job interview. This can manifest is all sorts of unhelpful ways including feelings of inadequacy, nervousness, and difficulty expressing oneself clearly (which can naturally trip us up when we really need to be on top form).
Oh…ok.. so not just you then?
Look, I know there are far too many ways in which your interview could take a downward tumble. Aside from the deal breakers.. turning up late, being rude, not turning up at all, bad interviews often start with a small mistake. Slip ups like getting your words muddled up, forgetting someone’s name, tripping up a step. Before you know it you’re spiralling into a messy, awkward interview 🤡
These small errors can feel like a catastrophe when you’re in the moment, being judged and on show to serve up the very best version of yourself.
But… hold on.. there is a silver lining 💫
What if I told you that making a little mistake or two can actually be a good thing?That it could actually ramp up the warm and fuzzy feeling your interviewer gets from you?
According to research the ‘Pratfall Effect’ (yes it’s a thing, go check it out) is a surprising psychological phenomenon that suggests making a minor blunder, or showing a flaw can actually make you seem more likeable and relatable, not less. (*Mind blown 🤯)
And this forms the basis of the Pratfall Effect interview tip. Think about it.. perfect people can feel intimidating and unapproachable. But when someone trips, fumbles their words, or admits a small mistake, it can humanise them and it tells us, “Hey, they’re just like me!”
This ‘vulnerability’ goes a long way to encourage real connection and create trust, helping you to show your authentic and endearing side. Who actually knew…?! 🤷♀️
What can you do with the Pratfall Effect interview tip
So, in light of this savvy little nugget of information, here’s my interview advice;
- It seems it’s a complete waste of time worrying about coming across as ‘perfect’ at your interview, so relax a little, don’t be afraid of making the odd mistake – because it does not need to be the start of the unravelling. Actually, the exact opposite – it could be a blessing.
- Your candidate competition has not prepared better/got it together any more than you. Remind yourself that at least 93% of candidates suffer from interview jitters just as much as you, the playing field is much more level than you think (and who exactly are the weird creatures that make up the other 7% anyway..?)
- Next time you make a little slip up in your interview, let it happen, own it and secretly do a tiny happy dance in your head, just remember the Pratfall!
Wishing you the best of luck with your job search!
I’m Zoe, Master Career Coach and Interview Specialist at WorkClever Careers, and Ex Recruitment Agency Owner. I coach to create success in the job search space, and I love to teach people how to interview really well, so they can get offers for the jobs they really want. I share knowledge and guidance through coaching and digital courses, and lots of freebie tips & hacks, all designed to give you real-world, transformative support so you can get the job you deserve.
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