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  • Writer's pictureIrene Hau

Be personable, and be present

Irene talks about creating self-image and making sure to be personable and present.


Whether in an interview, a first date, a hangout with peers, there are many personalities that we often slip into to fit an occasion. Ranging from professional to casual settings, everything from the attire to the tone of our voices are adjusted during our interactions. Also, the way we present ourselves contributes largely to our own self esteem and others’ perception of our values, thoughts, and ideas. Although curating one’s own self-image is up us, there are two specific characteristics that are "must-haves": be personable, and be present.

Be Personable As technology advances and access to larger pools of potential employees expand, it becomes more difficult to set ourselves apart from others in terms of skill. In the past, priority was given to highly trained people, but now, many industries have shifted their values to hire people that contribute to a collaborative work culture.


As a result, many employers are choosing applicants that will advance the company values and their team on an interpersonal level too. For those who are looking to apply to jobs, that means recruiters are seeking out personality and character from interviews. While daunting at first, the easiest and most efficient way to connect to employers is to be personable. Lean into your strengths and acknowledge, but acknowledge your weaknesses. Talk about your wins, but include your failures. After all, personable has the word "person" in it, and every person has imperfections.

Be Present Presenting yourself in the right light is only half of the story; the other half requires you to fulfill your position. Making a conscious effort from the start and dedicating time to keep up with tasks will prepare you for the job you want and help you be a part of a dedicated workspace.


At the end of the day, being present and personable are important aspects of social interactions and connection, but gaining proficiency in both can prove useful in pursuing careers goals.

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