Introduction
Whether you’re heading out for your first interview ever or you’re on your hundredth try, it helps to learn as much as you can about attending interviews.
Taking the time to review and adjust your interviewing skills and etiquette can make a significant difference.
Making a good first impression is crucial during a job interview. In fact, it is ten times more important than how you answer the interview questions.
This article provides professional etiquette tips to make a lasting impression during the interview process.
Understanding the Interview Process
Job markets vary. It is important to understand what to expect when attending an interview.
If you are new to the job market, researching the company, job description, and interviewer will help you prepare adequately.
Meanwhile, those with experience can benefit from reviewing past experiences and adjusting better their chances of success.
Prepare to Maximize Your Interview Impact: Impressions that Last
1. Practice, Practice, and Practice Some More
Practicing for the interview should begin weeks or even months before the actual interview.
Anticipate interview questions and prepare how you will answer them. Prepare good questions about the position and the company.
Practice with a friend and in front of a mirror to improve your presentation and body language.
2. Research and Prepare
Preparation is the key to a successful interview.
Research the company, the job description, and even the person you are about to meet, if possible.
Knowing as much as you can about the employer’s needs and expectations will help you demonstrate how your experience can meet and even exceed them.
3. Organize Your Materials and Schedule
Organization is another important part of preparation. Ensure that your materials are organized and easily accessible for application purposes and during the interview.
Know the time and location of the interview for arriving early. Organize all your details, including clothing, travel route, contact phone numbers, materials, etc., in advance to avoid feeling rushed or confused before or during the interview.
4. Memorize Your Resume
Memorize your resume to avoid any inconsistencies during the interview.
5. Dress in Business Attire
Plan and prepare your outfit the night before. Wear business attire even if the job allows casual attire.
6. Scan the Morning News
Read the morning paper to see if there is anything about the company or industry that can be used during the interview.
12 Professional Etiquette Tips
There are no hard and fast rules for proper interview etiquette, but following these tips can help you make a good impression and land the job.
Behaving during the Interview – Manners to Follow
Mastering proper interview etiquette is crucial.
Every aspect of your behavior from your attire, greeting, and communication style can influence the outcome of your interview.
Therefore, it is imperative to familiarize yourself with some essential interviewing etiquette tips to help you feel more at ease during the interview process.
1.) Proper Interview Attire
The first impression you make on a potential employer is based on how you look.
Dressing conservatively in formal business attire is always recommended, even in a casual work environment. Avoid revealing clothing and short skirts for women, and avoid showing any body parts, including your arms, for men.
Your appearance can make or break your interview.
2.) Display Professional Behavior
An interview is a time to be professional and use your best manners.
Avoid distractions such as constant texting, listening to music through earbuds, or playing games on your phone. Instead, take the time to review your materials, observe the office, and be polite. Use good body language, including straight posture, and avoid fidgeting.
Avoid carrying a cup of coffee or wearing Bluetooth on your ear and turn off your cell phone to prevent interruptions.
3.) Be Early
Arriving early for your interview shows that you are reliable and respectful of your interviewer’s time.
Being on time is perfect, but being late could cost you the job before you even get the chance to interview.
4.) The Importance of Handshakes
A handshake is as much a part of your personality as how you talk and walk, according to well-known psychologist A. Vanderbilt.
A strong handshake shows that you are confident and sure of yourself, which is important to potential employers.
5.) Have a Copy of a Resume in Hand
Offer a copy of your resume to the interviewer, even if you sent one ahead of time.
6.) Project Positive Energy and Motivation
Display enthusiasm and a positive attitude during the interview. Smile and show energy.
7.) Ask Smart Questions
Asking intelligent questions can generate a positive outcome and a first impression. Prepare a few questions ahead of time to ask the interviewer.
8.) Non-Verbal Communication
Your body language will be observed from the moment you enter the interview room.
Your posture, eye contact, and overall communication are crucial. Avoid blank stares, playing with your hair, and flirting. Show your confidence and competence without bragging or lying about your skills.
9.) Leave with a Positive Impression
An important part of attending an interview is how you leave.
Thank the hiring manager for the opportunity to present your qualifications. Show your interest by asking questions about when you can expect to hear about their decision, and express that you are interested in having the job (if you are).
Follow up by thanking the employer in writing.
10.) The Lasting Impression
Your first impression is made when you enter the room, but your lasting impression is made when you leave.
This includes your interview follow-up. A thank-you note is a crucial part of your post-interview etiquette. It should express your gratitude for the opportunity to interview and reconfirm your interest in the company.
11.) Touch Base with Your References
After the interview, the interviewer may contact your references before offering you the position.
It is essential to touch base with your references so that they remember you well if they receive a call.
12.) Make Sure You Can be Reached
Making yourself easy to contact after the interview can make potential employers feel more confident about choosing you for the job.
Provide accurate contact information and be available to answer any follow-up questions.
Conclusion
Using these tips for attending interviews will help you in any job interview.
If you follow through with these tips, you will place yourself above many other candidates.
Employers often find themselves frustrated by a candidate’s lack of interviewing etiquette, even when they have great qualifications.