How much should you share about your personal life during an interview?

Stories are memorable, and memorable is something you want to be during your interview. It’s important to make a connection with your interviewer, which can make it more likely for you to receive a job offer. To do this, you may feel encouraged to share personal details of your life—especially if you’ve struck up a conversation with the interviewer and feel comfortable talking to him or her.  

What to share and what not to share during an interview 

So what can you say, and what is TMI (Too Much Information)? Just follow these tips from a leading provider of jobs in Statesboro GA—Snelling Georgia Group: 

What to share 

Small Talk Topics

It can help to open an interview with a little small talk. Your interviewer may even try this technique to help break the ice and get things started. It’s OK to share personal interests and hobbies, such as your favorite TV show, the last movie you saw, your favorite sports team, your favorite local restaurant, your love of travel, etc. These topics are acceptable and may actually help you during an interview if you find you have something in common with the interviewer.  

Your Career Passion

What made you choose your current field? What do you love about your line of work? This is a topic that is absolutely a good choice during your interview. It’s also a great part of your answer to the common question, “So, tell me about yourself.” 

Your Career Highlights

What have you been up to in your career? Where have you worked, what roles have you held, what have you accomplished and what makes you proud? Details such as these are completely within limits during your interview.  

What not to share 

Politics

Especially in our current politically charged climate, political topics can be extremely polarizing. You want to start on a positive note, so leave politics to the politicians.   

Religion

Not only is it illegal for an interviewer to ask about religious affiliation, but it’s also a taboo topic that can be controversial and is best left aside during an interview.  

Health History

Keep the conversation professional and as light as possible. Health history is a topic to share with your doctor—not your interviewer.  

Bad Past Work Experiences

NEVER mud sling. If you left a past job on unfavorable terms or had a difficult time with a coworker, you may need to talk about it during an interview. But always present it as a learning experience and never, ever gossip. This includes past bosses, past coworkers, and past work situations.  

Need Interview Coaching? 

If you need additional help preparing for interviews, your recruiter can help. He or she wants you to succeed and will work with you to get ready 

Need a Recruiter? 

Check out Snelling Georgia Group! We’ll work with you to find a job you love in the Atlanta Metropolitan Area. To learn more, contact us today!  

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