How to Read Personality Style in a Job Interview
Most interviews don’t produce poor hires because candidates give weak answers. They fail because interviewers don’t recognize how those answers are communicated.
To truly understand how someone will perform in a role, interact with future coworkers, and fit into the culture, we need to tune into their style. To do this, you must pay closer attention and observe their actions. What they say is important, but how they deliver it is even more crucial.
Here’s what to ask and how to tune in.
Tip 1: Determine how they process information.
“When you’re learning something new, do you prefer a quick overview or a deep dive?”
Let’s use the DISC style—aka Eagles, Parrots, Doves, and Owls—to understand their reactions.
- Eagles respond quickly and move on. They speak directly, sometimes clipped, with steady eye contact, minimal gestures, and a “let’s get to it” presence.
- Parrots come alive when they answer. Their tone is animated and expressive. They use hand gestures, vary their tone, and may briefly go off-topic before returning.
- Doves speak softly and calmly. They are thoughtful, nodding, making softer eye contact, and showing a desire to be clear and agreeable.
- Owls slow down. Their tone is measured and precise. They may pause to choose their words carefully, with controlled gestures and a composed posture.
Tip 2: Determine what success looks like.
“What does success look like to you in this role?”
Watch what they emphasize and how they articulate it.
- Eagles speak confidently and focus on results and outcomes.
- Parrots become more energetic and often smile when talking about people or recognition.
- Doves soften their tone, often referencing teamwork, support, and shared achievements.
- Owls stay calm and list elements of success in a structured manner.
Tip 3: Determine how they make decisions.
“What do you consider when making big decisions?”
Pay attention to the language they use.
- Eagles use outcome-focused language, with words like results, efficiency, and impact.
- Parrots use experiential language and will discuss how it will feel, how others will react, and the overall vibe.
- Doves use relational language, emphasizing harmony, support, and how the decision affects people.
- Owls use analytical language, including facts, data, risks, and long-term implications, to shape their response.
Anyone can rehearse answers. It’s much harder to control tone, pace, and body language in real time. That’s where you see how they actually operate.
Watch their energy. Notice their rhythm. The words tell you what they’ve done. Their delivery tells you who they are.
About Merrick Rosenberg
Merrick Rosenberg is the creator of the Eagle, Parrot, Dove, and Owl personality framework and author of Personality Intelligence: Master the Art of Being You. As an award-winning speaker and founder of Take Flight Learning, Merrick has helped hundreds of thousands of people unlock the power of personality styles to transform their communication, leadership, and relationships. He’s on a mission to make self-awareness accessible, fun, and unforgettable.