It is thought that Aristotle believed that moral virtues were acquired by habit and imitation of practice.
To become a good interviewee, there is nothing more important than practice and the building of good habits.
There are 12 virtues attributed to Aristotle; all of which are helpful and relevant to becoming a good interviewee:
- Temperance – practice self-control and restraint, especially when emotion can get in the way; learn to control your emotions.
- Magnificence – enjoy your interviews and your confidence will radiate.
- Honour – respect the person asking the questions; you may not always agree with them, but they have a right to their own opinions and views.
- Good Temper – remain level-headed even when an interview or situation does not go your way.
- Liberality – Be open to new ideas and free from prejudice.
- Courage – have the courage to face difficult questions but also be prepared to hear difficult answers.
- Friendliness – conviviality is your friend – if combined with courage your performance will only improve.
- Truthfulness – being straightforward and frank will help the delivery of your message and questions.
- Friendship – you are more likely to build a relationship with your interviewer if you are friendly; hostility has no place in professional interviews.
- Justice – be impartial and fair.
- Wit – have a sense of humor (when appropriate to do so).
- Pride – be proud of the work you produce and believe in what you are trying to achieve.
The InVision team uses all these virtues when training future media interviewees. Practice and the development of good habits is key to succeeding and with our help those habits will become second nature.