Punctuality. Our culture is very time oriented, as evidenced by phrases like “time is of the essence,” “time is money,” and “the early bird catches the worm.” Although it may seem obvious that you should arrive to a job interview on time, many people still make a late entrance—and a bad impression on their prospective employer.
“It’s unbelievable how many people can’t get to an interview on time. Probably 30 to 50 percent of people arrive to their interviews late,” Krannich said. “That just really leaves a bad impression. If you can’t get to the interview, what does that tell me about you? You’ve basically flunked the interview by coming in late.”
Less is more. When going on a job interview, too much of anything—like perfume or cologne, jewelry, visible tattoos, or makeup—can push an interviewer’s buttons in the wrong way. Also, to be on the safe side, wear neutral colors and make a point of dressing one step above what is appropriate for the job that you’re seeking.
It’s not just what you say. Paralanguage, or the way that we say things, is just as important as the words we use themselves. If you have a flat voice while you’re telling an interviewer how excited you are about a position, it will make you sound disingenuous. Be sure that the tone and pitch of your voice reflect the enthusiasm that you are declaring.
Also, try to keep verbal pauses—like “ums” and “ahs” —to a minimum. Too many of these can make you sound woefully unprepared for the interview or give the impression that you don’t know what you’re talking about.
Don’t stand so close to me. Fans of “Seinfeld” will remember the “close talker” episode where Elaine’s boyfriend made everyone uncomfortable by disregarding the rules of proxemics—the amount of space between people. Just as Jerry, George, and Kramer winced whenever the close talker invaded their personal space, an interviewee will elicit the same response when getting too up close and personal with a hiring manager. In this kind of setting, staying at arm’s length with your interviewer is most appropriate.
Likewise, resist the urge to pick up the knickknacks on your interviewer’s desk. While it sounds like a no-brainer, sometimes when we are nervous we want to hold something in our hands and start grabbing at things without even thinking about it.
The eye of the beholder. Making eye contact lets other people know that you are listening and interested in the person you are speaking to. But be careful—too much eye contact can be interpreted as aggression, while too little can convey dishonesty. It’s best to shift your eyes periodically to show that you are being attentive, but not inappropriate.
Don’t curb your enthusiasm. During an interview, you want your body to show that you are interested in the job and carefully listening to your interviewer. Be sure to sit up straight and display openness with your arms and facial expressions.
Be consistent. Make sure that your nonverbal communication is consistent with your words. If there is a discrepancy, the interviewer will believe your body language—no matter how good your words sound.
Part One: The importance of nonverbal communication during job interviews
Part Three: More interviewing tips
More Workplace Communication:
Bosses afraid to communicate
Characteristics of e-mail communication
Don’t call me Liz!: Elizabeth Becton incident illustrates workplace communication breakdown
Why texting and job hunting don’t mix
Comments