Knocking on Doors: What Trick-or-Treating Teaches Us About Job Interviews

Every October, we’re reminded of a simple, timeless ritual: dressing up, knocking on doors, and hoping for something sweet in return. Halloween trick-or-treating might seem far removed from the world of job interviews, but in many ways, they share the same spirit of courage, curiosity, and connection. Both are about showing up as your best self, embracing uncertainty, and believing that each door might lead to the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

When you walk down your street on Halloween night, you’re not guaranteed candy at every stop. Some lights are off. Some doors don’t open. Yet children don’t stop knocking. They keep going—costumes slightly crooked, candy bags getting heavier, laughter filling the air. That level of persistence is exactly what job seekers need during the interview process. You may face closed doors or polite no’s, but every attempt builds your resilience and brings you closer to your yes.

Much like choosing the right costume, how you present yourself in an interview matters. On Halloween, a clever or confident costume can spark conversation and help you stand out. In an interview, your “costume” is your preparation—your outfit, your research, your tone, and your enthusiasm. It’s not about pretending to be someone else; it’s about amplifying your strengths and showing how your personality fits the culture of the organization you’re visiting. When you show up authentically, you make a memorable impression—just as a creative costume does.

Then there’s the act of knocking. In both trick-or-treating and job searching, you have to take the first step. It’s not enough to walk the neighborhood and admire the decorations from afar. You have to extend your hand, ring the bell, and introduce yourself. Each interaction strengthens your confidence and refines your approach. The more doors you knock on, the more comfortable you become in conversations that matter—just like a child who goes from shy to fearless as the evening rolls on.

And let’s not forget the reward. For kids, it’s candy. For job seekers, it’s the right offer—one that feels earned and exciting. But there’s another reward often overlooked: growth. Every interview, whether it ends with an offer or not, teaches you more about how to share your story, how to read the room, and how to stay optimistic even when outcomes are uncertain.

So this Halloween, as you see families out gathering candy, remember that your job search isn’t so different. Dress with intention. Knock with confidence. Keep moving from one illuminated doorstep to the next. Some doors might open quickly; others may take time. But the spirit of trick-or-treating reminds us of something powerful: every door is an opportunity to connect, learn, and take one step closer to where you want to go.

Happy Halloween—and happy interviewing.