During an interview, what can be inferred about an applicant's personality?

Choosing to focus on an applicant likely being nervous during an interview is a common inference that can be made based on the pressure and high stakes associated with the situation. Many people find interviews to be a stressful experience, which can activate their fight-or-flight response. This psychological pressure may lead them to exhibit signs of nervousness, such as fidgeting, sweating, or difficulty articulating thoughts clearly.

Recognizing that interviews are inherently anxiety-inducing helps to understand that an applicant might be presenting their best self while simultaneously feeling the weight of evaluation. It’s also important to note that nervousness can serve as a motivator to prepare thoroughly, leading some applicants to perform well despite their internal discomfort.

While elements like overconfidence, rehearsed answers, or a lack of interest might be observed in some applicants, they do not universally apply, as individual experiences vary significantly based on personality, confidence levels, and motivations for applying to the position. Understanding the dynamics of nerves in an interview context provides insight into applicant behavior and human psychology as it relates to high-pressure scenarios.