[Zen888]

Hello

I am applying for part-time work and have been receiving phone calls for interviews.

I am a very calm, mild mannered, somewhat shy at first...person.

How do I act/behave lively and show off my good personality traits? Tips on how to behave lively and engaging are appreciated. How do I "come to life" during the interview instead of being my calm mild mannered self?

[theotterone]

You can't change who you are at the core. I am an extreme extrovert.
My coworkers tease me for being so talkative. At the core, that is who I am and I am ok with it. My husband is an extreme introvert. He will never be like me, being able to strike up a conversation with a random stranger.

They say the art of conversation is about asking questions about the other person and listening. Smile a lot, even if you don't feel like it. Look people in the eye. It can be uncomfortable, but focus a point between the eyes. It gives that same impression. Even if you don't talk a lot, practice your non-vocal communication.

Hope that helps!

[Naturefreak]

Zen , I'm not sure that's a good idea . Your own personality should do just fine . Unless of course it is an acting job you are applying for . lol . Good luck in finding that job .

[turquoisesea]

I agree =D

One thing I've found useful in interviews is to act as comfortable and YOU as possible.

Smile! That's a big one =)
Take time to think if you need it. Often when we get nervous time "speed up"... you have more time than you might think.

Act confident even if you don't feel it. They called you for an interview - that's the first step and that's GREAT!

GOOD LUCK!!!!

[Shangrala]

Yeps...I agree with all above.

I have no problem with talking to..anyone. I've found that a smile with bright eye contact is a must. I've always applied compliments, as well, so long as they are suttle and not overly-obvious.

A lot of people love to talk about themselves, so open an ear and listen, even if boring, (and don't feel badly if you need to politely excuse yourself from someone who can talk your ear off...lol..chances are they'll wander off to the next available ear).

The best you can do is be YOU. And from the sounds of it, you'll do just fine.

Best of luck.

Shangrala

[VickiesPath]

The art of conversation is that the conversation should have a "life" of its own. It is a give and take. Each person's contribution is based upon what the other person said previously. The way to start a conversation is to approach the other person as if they are the most interresting person in the world. And, actually, they can be. Ask questions. Each person has a remarkable and unique story to tell. Or if you want to find out about a particular subject, like asking the person their own history with the company, you can begin a conversation there. Ask them what they do, how long they've been there, etc.

I have always believed that a job interview is a two way interview. You are interviewing them, too. I know you are desperate for a job. But to be hired into a job that does not fit your personality is doing you no favors. In the long run, you will be unhappy. Anytime I was not hired, I always figured there was a reason for it. Be the best YOU that you can be. Show them the real you and that is the very best thing. Be confident that the real you is competent, capable, efficient, a hard worker, trustworthy, reliable and talented.

I know you will do well.

[modelcarguy]

As they have all said, just be yourself. Don't try to be something you are not. As someone who has interviewed hundreds of people, we can see that the person is trying to cover something up. Just be yourself and you will be fine.

[Junerain]

It sounds like you are a very sincere person, so just show your sincerity, your honesty in who you are, smile, and let it shine through!