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Job interview manners
There's a lot of information on job interview tactics, from understanding the question behind the question to answering unsettling questions. After you've prepared thoroughly beforehand, here are some tips on handling the interview once you get there. They may seem simple, but they’re often overlooked.
Dress the part.
Professional clothes and grooming make the first impression with your interviewers. They will be looking at you for quite awhile, so "almost well-groomed" is not good enough. Make sure you polish your shoes and get that haircut a week ahead of time!
Establish a rapport.
In addition to exchanging information, an interview is about making a connection with the interviewers. They are real persons too. Expect to take the first few minutes to establish common ground or a point of interest that will help them remember you.
Don't be overly familiar.
The tone of an interview is professional. Take your cue on whether to use the interviewers' titles or first names from how they introduce themselves. If in doubt, use their title: Mr./Ms.
Don't act; be yourself.
The interview is your chance to see whether you fit the organization and would be happy working there. So be yourself; don't be afraid to open up and be honest about your interests and values.
Speak clearly and distinctly.
Make active, direct statements about yourself. For example, instead of "I was made head of the ping-pong society," say "I led the ping-pong society through a successful season.” Avoid slang expressions.
Listen carefully.
It is important you understand questions correctly before responding. If you're not sure what the interviewers meant, ask them to clarify or rephrase the question. If it is a difficult question, don't be afraid to ask if you can take a short time (5-10 seconds) to think about your answer.
Body language is important!
Sit directly facing the interviewer. Fold your hands in your lap or rest them comfortably on the armrests. Maintain as much eye contact as possible. Relax your shoulders. Adopt an attentive body position when questions are asked. While being professional, don't forget to smile!
Ask questions.
The interview is a two-way process. While the interviewer wants to know as much about you as possible in a short time, this is also your opportunity to ask questions about the organization and the job for which you are applying. Interviewers will evaluate you on the questions you ask as well as the answers you give.
Close strongly.
Reinforce some positive aspect of the interview. If you found you both enjoy running, mention the marathon happening on the weekend. Ending on a positive note goes a long way to leaving a lasting impression in the interviewer's mind.
Observe the formalities.
Shake the interviewer's hand as you leave, not only when you arrive. Express your thanks for his or her time and your enthusiasm about working for the organization. Remember, the interviewer would like to meet you—the real person. So conduct yourself professionally and courteously, but be natural so the real you shines through!
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 Career development |
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