4 Psychology-Backed Interview Tactics for Transitioning Teachers
Nov 01, 2024
Is it just me, or are interviews one of the most nerve-wracking parts of switching careers? You’ve got the experience, you’re qualified, but still—it feels like every word, every move is being dissected.
Honestly, it probably is.
No wonder the stress is real.
Maybe you’ve even reached the interview stage a couple of times but didn’t make it to the final round. Frustrating, right?
Well, have no fear—I’m here with your next steps. Let’s make you the most memorable candidate in the room with four high-impact, psychology-backed strategies.
1. The “Similarity Attraction Bias”
Here’s the thing: people are naturally drawn to others who seem like them. This “Similarity Attraction Bias” is something you can use to your advantage with a bit of thoughtful preparation.
How to Use It: Before the interview, check out your interviewer’s LinkedIn or any public info. Maybe you share a former employer, attended a similar event, or have an overlapping skill. Drop it into the conversation in a natural way. This simple move creates a sense of familiarity—one that makes them feel connected to you without even realizing it.
2. The "Social Proof" + "Priming" Technique
Want to subtly demonstrate you’re prepared and engaged? Try leading some of your responses with, “Based on my research…” This taps into both “Social Proof” and “Priming” theories, signaling that you’ve invested time to understand the role and the organization.
Example: “Based on my research, I understand that adaptability is essential for this team. Let me share an example…” This approach positions you as someone who’s already thinking like an insider, bringing a level of social proof to your responses.
3. The Storytelling Method
Listing skills can sound dry and rehearsed, but sharing a short, vivid story can create an emotional connection and make you more memorable.
Example: Instead of saying, “I handle tight deadlines well,” try: “A couple of years ago, we had a project where the deadline was cut in half, and I stepped up to lead the team…” This technique humanizes you, presenting you as a problem-solver who’s ready to tackle real challenges.
4. Future Visioning: Let Them Picture You in the Role
Imagine the interviewer seeing you as part of their next team meeting, contributing fresh strategies or tackling a key project. This “Future Visioning” tactic can nudge their mind to envision you in the role.
How to Do It: Try saying, “I can see myself diving into [specific project] and contributing by…” It’s a clever way to plant the seed of you as part of their team, making it harder for them to picture anyone else in your place.
Quick Recap:
- Similarity Bias: Create a sense of connection by finding commonalities.
- “Based on My Research”: Show you’re prepared and aligned with their priorities.
- Storytelling: Be memorable by demonstrating your skills through stories.
- Future Visioning: Help them visualize you as part of the team.
Ready to Take Control?
Try one or two of these tactics and see how the dynamic shifts.
The energy in the room changes when you’re in the driver’s seat of the conversation.
Want to Go Even Further?
When you’re ready to stand out and ace your interviews, the Elevated Careers Career Change Accelerator™ covers everything you need to understand interview psychology and land a role that fits.
Remember: You’re not just answering questions—you’re making them see you as the one who belongs.
Now go in there and take command of that room.
