Add This to Your Resume and Change the Tone of Your Interview from the Get-Go

The corporate world can get very, well, corporate, and sometimes we don’t even realize how sucked into the work-world we are until something pulls us out of it. It is important to keep office morale up and the atmosphere comfortable for productive work to get done. Interviews are no exception because these companies want to see what you bring to the table and how you would be a good fit.

I went to a conference recently, and there was a presenter who spoke about "delighters." Delighters are those little things in life that come unexpected but spark joy in your day. For example, the packaging on a box. If you're expecting just a plain cardboard shipped box, but you actually get a fun printed pattern design that brings just a tad bit more delight to your day, that would be considered a delighter.

Starting your interview off with an element of delight holds a lot of power for the remainder of the interview.

So how can you “delight” the room?

Compendium is a brand that focuses on what difference we can make in the world by sprinkling a bit of inspiration where we live, work and play. Finding tangible ways to add hope and unexpected delight is their main goal, and it shines through their products.

Include a Thoughtful from Compendium

Thoughtfuls are little pop-open cards with messages inside. Outside, you’ll find elegant designs to brighten your spirits and catch your attention. Inside, you’ll find timeless messages of inspiration to capture your heart.

You can either open a card whenever you need a little inspiration, or pass one along to a friend, co-worker or, for this blog's purpose, your interviewer.

How does this help you in an interview?

What is one thing you always bring with you to an interview? Your resume! If you didn’t know that, I’m glad you are here. Sure the interviewers probably have a copy already, but it is always good to bring multiple copies. It shows you are prepared.

In order to make your resume stand out, paper clip one of these heartfelt notes to your resume, and before you sit down, thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you and give them your resume with the Thoughtful attached to it. Use it as a conversation piece. Let them decide if they want to open it right then and there, but at least it will spark the conversation.

In most experiences, the interviewer will ask you to tell them about yourself and you can include your positive attitude and how you like to set the tone with a positive notion (AKA: a ‘delighter’).

These little cards do not hold the power to make or break your job opportunity, but they do have the power to set the tone for the interview which can sometimes be a groundbreaking factor. They show you thought about this setup and that you are not afraid to show off your personality.

I would stick to the ‘Thank You’ box to keep it professional and as a way to show your appreciation for them taking the time to get to know you. Each card has a different message, so if you have multiple interviewers they will each receive a unique message.

If you don’t think your interview is the proper time to bring in a delighter, that's totally fine. You know the situation better and can make that call. Maybe attach it to a handwritten thank you note you send after your interview.

These 'Thoughtfuls' are small but mighty and at the end of the day make someone smile. There are many surprises in life so when little pleasant ones like these come around, it is extra special!