Interview like a narcissist, without turning into one

Vanity, arrogance and entitlement aren’t usually considered attractive personality traits, but it turns out they often help people who exhibit them in job interviews, according to a study by the University of British Columbia.

"A job interview is one of the few social situations where narcissistic behaviours such as boasting actually create a positive impression," says UBC Psychology Prof. Del Paulhus, the lead author of the study. "Normally, people are put off by such behaviour, especially over repeated exposure."

We asked psychologists and career experts what lessons non-narcissists can take from the study and apply in their next job interview.

Sell your strengths

People with narcissistic tendencies do well in job interviews because of traits that don’t really translate well to real life, said Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist and professor of psychology. For example, narcissists often exaggerate their perceived strengths and interviewers may be impressed with their confidence.

“They don’t have the same kind of filters as non-narcissists — they are comfortable talking about and selling themselves with abandon,” Durvasula says.

To be more confident on interviews, try visualizing a confident candidate and think about the qualities they project, suggests Roy Cohen, career coach and author of The Wall Street Professional’s Survival Guide. Think about the qualities you’d like to emulate — such as passion, excitement, energy and enthusiasm — then try and project those.

Cohen also suggests practicing beforehand with a friend or family member. This will allow you to think about your qualifications and be prepared to speak confidently about them. Cohen also suggests asking your practice partner to throw you some curveball questions so you can practice not being rattled.

Recording yourself is also a great way to see exactly how you seem in an interview. You’ll be able to hear and see how you present yourself and correct any behaviors that seem too unsure.

“We want to look like narcissists but not actually be narcissists,” Cohen said. “It may be as simple as ‘Are you smiling?’”

Don’t dwell on your flaws

People with narcissistic tendencies can be equally adept at downplaying their flaws. They can compartmentalize and almost disown the negative side of themselves, says Jeanette Raymond, licensed clinical psychologist and author of Now You Want Me, Now You Don't!: Fear of Intimacy.

The narcissist’s skill at revealing different parts of himself at different times is something others can also cultivate — at least for an interview, says Christine Fernandez, a psychologist in private practice in Manhattan. “The most self-confident and entitled part of him is shown during an interview.”

Non-narcissists can do this, as well. “It's not about bragging; it's about honestly discussing accomplishments and concrete facts. A shy person will be more comfortable talking about their skills and accomplishments when they know they are solidly based in fact,” Fernandez says.

Keep your mindset focused on the positive by bringing written notes about your accomplishments with you to the interview. Just a few bullet points will suffice, and you can glance at them as needed to stay upbeat..

Embrace the personal

People who exhibit Narcissistic tendencies are engaging and attentive in interviews, and make an effort to develop a personal connection with their interviewers.

This, too, is something that non-narcissists can learn from. You might be tempted to keep things all business, but try to be charming and warm, advises Durvasula.

Look around the room for signs of the interviewer’s personal interests and ask polite questions about them. Photos, artwork and sports memorabilia are all fair game and such discussions can make excellent ice breakers.

A note for employers

Paulhus, the study author, says the study offers important lessons for hiring managers, as well. "Interviewers should look beyond cultural style and assess individual qualifications. Instead of superficial charm, interviewers must analyze candidates' potential long-term fit in the organization."