You Googled “10 most common interview questions.” You prepared your talking points. You even rehearsed your answers.
But then you walk into the job interview, and it all falls apart. Not because you weren’t able to answer the questions. But because you didn’t connect with the person asking them.
It’s Not the Question That Trips You Up, It’s the Interviewer
Many people do poorly in interviews, not from lack of preparation, but from lack of adaptability. They answer every question the same way, no matter who’s on the other side of the table. Interviewing is less about finding perfect answers and more about establishing a connection.
Let’s watch this play out…
🦜 Parrots vs. 🦉 Owls: The Energy Mismatch
An enthusiastic and charismatic Parrot walks into an interview full of enthusiasm. She’s expressive, optimistic, and all smiles.
But the interviewer is an all-business Owl who is with a prepared set of questions and wants detail, a lot of detail.
The Parrot panics inside: “Am I doing something wrong? I don’t think he likes me!”
Her confidence fizzles, not because of bad answers, but because of a lack of flexibility.
🕊️ Doves vs. 🦅 Eagles: The Pressure Cooker
Now, picture a Dove in the hot seat. He’s got the skills, an empathetic ear, and a kind heart. But across the table is a fast-paced, bottom-line Eagle.
The Dove feels overwhelmed by the Eagle’s intensity. He appears unsure, as he doesn’t feel the connection, which he interprets as failure.
Stop Practicing Answers. Start Practicing Adaptability.
You don’t need one great answer, you need four, one for each style.
Let’s take the classic question, “Tell me about yourself.”
If you are meeting with an Eagle: Get to the point. Highlight achievements and outcomes.
“I led a project that cut costs by 20% and reduced delivery time by a week.”
If you are meeting with a Parrot: Display energy. Tell short stories. Let your passion shine.
“I love inspiring people to be their best. Here’s an example of when I did that and it made a tremendous impact.”
If you are meeting with a Dove: Build rapport. Emphasize collaboration and reliability.
“I’m known as the person that people turn to when they need support. I remember a time when…”
If you’re meeting with an Owl: Be organized. Use logic and structure. Provide specifics.
“I’ve worked in three departments over five years, each time improving systems and processes. For example…”
The Power of Being the Chameleon
When you adapt your communication to match the interviewer’s style, you:
Build rapport fast!
Spark confidence as you align with their needs and priorities.
Make a lasting impression that sets you apart.
You are not changing who you are. You are communicating in a way they can hear. That’s Chameleon flexibility. That’s Personality Intelligence in action.
Check out The Chameleon and if it helps you see yourself more clearly, share your thoughts in a review on Amazon, GoodReads, BookBub and StoryGraph.