Should one be demure or not at a job interview

Should one be demure or not at a job interview?

Demure is the word of the month with the words  ‘very demure’ and ‘very mindful’ going viral on TikTok. So keeping up to date with this latest word obsession, we thought we would jump on board and discuss should you be demure in a job interview?

Being demure in a job interview can convey humility, thoughtfulness, and professionalism, which can leave a positive impression on interviewers. Whether you should be demure in a job interview depends on the job, company culture, and your personal style.

Here are some factors to consider:

When Being Demure is Beneficial:

  1. Industry Norms: In industries where professionalism, attention to detail, and a conservative demeanor are valued (e.g., finance, law, or academia), a demure approach can be advantageous.
  2. Company Culture: If the company is known for its traditional, formal, or reserved culture, being demure might align well with their expectations.
  1. Position Type: For roles that require a lot of listening, meticulousness, or behind-the-scenes work, a demure attitude might signal that you’re a good fit.
  1. Respect for Hierarchy: In organizations that value hierarchy and respect for authority, being demure can demonstrate your understanding of and respect for these dynamics.

When Being Demure Might Not Be the Best Approach:

  1. Creative or Dynamic Roles: In industries or roles that value innovation, creativity, or assertiveness (e.g., marketing, tech startups, sales), being overly demure might be interpreted as lacking confidence or initiative.
  2. Leadership Positions: For leadership roles, employers often look for assertiveness, decisiveness, and strong communication skills. Being too demure might make it harder to convey these qualities.
  3. Company Culture: In more casual or dynamic environments where bold ideas and enthusiasm are valued, a demure demeanor might seem out of place or too conservative.
  4. Balancing Act: Even in formal settings, it’s important to show confidence. Being too reserved might lead interviewers to question whether you’re comfortable taking initiative or handling pressure.

Balancing Demure Qualities:

  • Adapt to the Environment: You can start with a demure approach and adjust your demeanor based on the interviewer’s style and the conversation flow.
  • Show Confidence When Needed: Even if you adopt a demure tone, be ready to assert your qualifications, ask insightful questions, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.
  • Be Authentic: It’s important to remain true to your personality. If being demure is natural for you, that’s fine, but don’t force it if it feels inauthentic.

In summary, consider the context and your natural demeanour. Being demure can be an asset in the right setting but it is important to balance it with confidence and assertiveness where needed.

For more interview advice contact our professional team today on info@optimalrecruitment.com.au or 02 8416 4181