When to apply diplomacy skills in a job interview

When to apply diplomacy skills in a job interview

Applying diplomacy in a job interview allows you to demonstrate your emotional intelligence, communication skills and professionalism. It may also land you the role! In this article we discuss the importance of diplomacy and how you can apply it in your next interview.

There are many occasions when diplomacy is your best choice in a job interview.

Diplomacy is an art. It involves being as truthful as you can without being negative. Using diplomacy in a job interview is an opportunity to show off your emotional intelligence and communication skills.

A diplomatic interview answer involves appearing professional at all times.

Below are two common interview questions, what to avoid when answering, and our handy tips on how to frame a diplomatic answer.

Why are you leaving your current role?

Recruiters use this question to highlight any career related issues. These include not getting along with others, personality issues or not being able to commit to a role. This is not the time to rant about the culture of your current organisation. It is unprofessional to complain about your company. If you do so, a recruiter is likely to think you would continue to do this in a new role.

Studies have shown that poor leadership is a contributing factor to high employee turnover rates. Having said that, never criticise your current boss in a job interview. You don't know whether they are known by the interviewer. It is important to stick to the facts and to not get emotional in your response. (Even if your current boss is why you are leaving your role!)

This question is a good time to talk about your current role not being a good job fit, or that you are ready for a new challenge. It is also a good time to talk about why the new role attracted you.

In practice

In practice, diplomatic answers can look like this:

“I’ve enjoyed my time with [current company / firm], but I’m looking for an opportunity that is a closer fit with my long-term career goals, especially in [mention relevant practice area, skill, or value area].”

“I’ve realised I do my best work in an environment that supports [flexibility/work-life balance/hybrid work], and I’m looking for a position that aligns with that while still challenging me professionally.”

“There have been some organisational changes that have limited opportunities for advancement, so I’m looking for a role where I can continue developing and contributing at a higher level.”

“I’ve really valued the experience and skills I’ve gained in my current role, but I’m ready to take on new challenges that will help me continue growing professionally — particularly in [specific practice area relevant to the new role].”

Why do you want this job?
This is NEVER the time to talk about money. (Even if that is why you want the job!) This is also not the time to talk about how much you hate your current role. In response to this question you should be highlighting the value you can bring to their organisation. Discuss how your unique career experience addresses the key selection criteria.

This question allows you to demonstrate how well researched you are about the role, how you are a good fit, and where you can add value.

In practice

Use this formula to help formulate your answer:

“I want this job because it combines [something you’re good at] with [something you care about], in an environment that values [something important to you]. I’m confident I can add value by [specific contribution relevant to the role].”

Some examples of a diplomatic answer include:

“This position is a great next step that builds on my experience in [your practice area / skill area]. I’m excited about the chance to take on more responsibility in [specific aspect of the job] and to keep learning from a team that’s known for [something positive about the team, department or firm].”

“I’m drawn to this role because the firm's focus on [specific value, mission, or initiative] really speaks to me. I’ve admired how your team [mention something the firm does well], and I see an opportunity to contribute my skills in [specific practice area] to help continue that success.”

“From what I’ve learned, this is a collaborative and forward-thinking environment, which really appeals to me. I enjoy working with people who are passionate about what they do, and I see this as a place where I could contribute meaningfully while continuing to develop professionally.”

“I’m excited about the tangible impact this role has — particularly in [specific types of matters, client base, or outcome]. I’m motivated by work that makes a difference, and I believe my background in [relevant skills or experiences] would allow me to contribute quickly and effectively.”

Diplomacy involves being honest without deliberately hurting anyone’s feelings or coming across as negative. It can be practised in both your professional and personal life and is an effective soft skill to have in your tool belt.

Have you tried it? It will ensure you appear professional at interview and may help you land the role!

Are you looking for a new and challenging role in the legal industry in Melbourne and would like guidance on how to approach an interview? Legal People are specialists in the Legal Industry and have assisted many job seekers in landing Lawyer, Support staff and HR professional roles. Connect with us via our Company Page on LinkedIn or send us your CV to get the conversation started!