Can your enthusiasm betray you? Generally, enthusiasm is considered to be akin to a positive attitude. It is a drive of energy, stoked by excitement and avid interest in a topic or concept. Enthusiasm is a focus. In the job search realm, it is often mentioned in regards to skills done well. For example, a cover letter might mention the enthusiasm an applicant feels about research topics in robotics. A resume might headline enthusiasm pertaining to community management and team building.
It’s important to consider the context of enthusiasm. When expressed via the written word, it can be perceived as willingness to perform a task. It can unveil huge passion for a particular industry, appealing to the hiring team. However, too much enthusiasm can seem more emotive than knowledgeable, perhaps even clueless. Hirers are seeking skills and expertise in their prospective employees.
Say you are aiming for a particular role in communications and this role’s responsibilities include website design. Now, you’ve always felt immense enthusiasm for websites. You adore them and understand their value. You could talk about them all day, but don’t know a thing about building them. In the professional realm, experience and knowledge are enhanced but not replaced by enthusiasm. Check that your enthusiasm has a basis before proclaiming it from the rooftops.
Enthusiasm during a networking conversation shows interest and engagement, but too much can seem obsessive, woozy, or even feigned. When you are chatting with someone about a subject you love, you might find yourself wanting to spend the entire conversation talking about that one thing because it’s just so fun. Your elation might elevate the mood to an intense party vibe, pushing the boundaries of professional demeanor. You might even come across as mocking or sarcastic if your enthusiasm is unusually intense. It’s hard to keep your socks on, but sometimes you must hold off until the weekend pool party.
Now imagine an interview. You are so excited and want to show that you are the best fit for the job at hand. Your enthusiasm is bubbling up, but it is distracting you from listening to the interviewer. In fact, you are buzzing with a fanciful pre-determination that you have chosen this job over any other. When you catch yourself riding high on assumption, grab the reins. Don’t let your feelings choose your fate, for they can gallop faster than reality.
Remember that enthusiasm is a sensation as well as an expression. You will feel what you feel, but you get to choose how you communicate said feelings in the job hunt setting. Keep in mind that people will perceive your attitude and mannerisms through their own unique lens. Tend to your enthusiasm so it does not lead you astray.
This line of thought stems from a colleague’s recent reflection. He mused upon putting more energy into curiosity and less into passion. Maybe this is mind over matter. Maybe this is sense over sensibility. What do you think? Can your enthusiasm betray you?
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