Using NLP In A Job Interview: Five Ways To Build Rapport And Get The Job

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NLP, or neuro-linguistic programming, is an approach to communication that can be used to instantly build rapport with people. Using NLP in a job interview is an excellent hack to influence a company to hire you.

Below are a few methods to use NLP to influence your interviewers:

  1. Mirror their language. For example, if asked “What was your single greatest achievement in your career?” respond with “My single greatest achievement in my career was ______.”
  2. Mirror their body movements. This can take some practice. Ask a friend or family member if you could practice on them. You don’t want to do this in a creepy way, but simple mirror their tics. For example, if a candidate rubs a hand over their face when they ask a question, rub your hand over your face when you respond.
  3. Ask a question about the location. Before the interview begins, ask your interviewers a question about their location or a specific relevant occasion. For example, “What do you think of the Financial District?”
  4. Ask a question about their/their company’s vision. After the interview, when asked if you have any questions, make sure to ask a question along the following lines: What are the core values of [X company]?
  5. Ask a question based on shared experiences/affiliations. When being interviewed, if possible, find a point of shared experience/affiliation and ask a question about that. For example, if your interviewer has a New York Yankees coffee mug, ask them “Are you a Yankees fan?”