Desperate job seekers interview poorly.

Think of it this way: you're in the market for a date. Would you want to date anyone who's desperate for a date - any date - any date at all?!?

Probably not. After all, how can you respect someone who's desperate?

Employers are the same way.  Most hiring managers don't want to hire people who don't have any other options and are desperate for a job - any job - any job at all. Of course, we've all witnessed what happens when an employer hires someone desperate and those who begin dating the desperate: the disrespect becomes overt.

And who wants to be on the receiving end of that?!?

The trick in interviews, then, is to remove the stench of desperation by being professionally coy. You want to express interest in the jobs for which you're applying, but you don't want to express too much interest, for fear of coming off as desperate. Here are a few tips on how to be professionally coy in job interviews:

It seems to fit me. There's a world of difference between saying, "my skills fit the job" and "the job seems to fit my skills, but I'd like to learn more." The former shows that you're willing to morph yourself for a job, the latter shows you know what you bring to the party and that you're a little choosey. The latter also shows that you have confidence in yourself. And this professional coyness born of confidence is attractive to employers (and potential dates).

Side step. Employers will often ask a question ahead of its time. They may, for instance, ask about your desired salary discussing the job itself. Instead of answering the out-of-order question, be professionally coy and side step it. You might, for instance, say, "that's a great question, but I'd like to hear a little more about the position before we discuss income." This demonstrates that you're interested more in the functionality of the position while letting the hiring manager believe that you're not financially desperate. And employers, like potential dates, find those who are financial comfortable very attractive.

Reschedule. Rescheduling an interview is a great way to demonstrate professional coyness - and make employers want you even more. After you schedule a date, time and location for an interview, wait a day. After one day, call the hiring manager and tell him/her that "another commitment came up" and that you'll need to reschedule the interview. Since you won't be specific about what the other commitment is, the hiring manager may conclude it's to interview for another job. And, just like when you're dating, nothing is more irresistable than someone who has options.

IN THE CARAVAN: Professional coyness can make employers want you more than your competitors. Show interest, but don't throw yourself at hiring managers.

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