Having a clear knowledge of good job interview etiquette is an important part of successful interviewing. Your job interview etiquette, or lack of it, will not go disregarded by reputable employers. How you dress, act and communicate will make a great difference in the outcome of your interview. So to get you started and ensure you know exactly how to act and conduct yourself during your next interview, here are some job interview etiquette tips you need to consider before, during and after a job interview:
Do Proper Research
Having good information about the company and its leaders before going for a job interview is important. So ensure you review the company’s website and relevant publications to gather enough information about the company such as core activities/products/services, notable achievements, awards received, and the employees in the department you might end up working in. Your ability to perform this very important check shows you are indeed interested in working at the company.
Arrive on time
Showing up late for an interview can leave a negative impression on potential employers. It could make you look unsuitable and unprofessional no matter how well you do in the actual interview. Do ensure you are familiar with the route and if you are not, ensure you ask questions on how to get there easily. So to avoid missing your chances of getting the job on the basis of lateness, arrive before time.
Dress Well
Your appearance speaks long before you do. Whether you say a word or not, what you’re wearing speaks volume. Dress in a way that is suitable to the position for which you are applying. There’s a big difference between a job at a bank and a building site. If you’re not sure what to wear, it’s preferable to overdress than to appear for an interview looking too casual. According to Lynda Goldman, business communication and etiquette consultant, a navy blue suit is the best colour to wear to a job interview because it inspires confidence. Black will also do just fine because it conveys leadership but avoid brown and other colours that may describe you as simple and old-fashioned. Shoes must be properly shinned, clothes pressed, hair well combed or cut and nails clean and trimmed.
Give a firm handshake
This is non-verbal but has a great way of connecting with people. Ensure you use the entire hand, by extending your arm for a firm, but not too firm or overbearing grip. Ensure you practice with a friend if it doesn’t come natural to you before the interview.
Look people in the eye…and smile
No doubt, a job interview is strenuous, but looking nervous will make you lose your points in this singular opportunity you have to impress the decision-maker in the company. Smiling and looking them in the eye will make you appear confident, welcoming and friendly. A smile will show how you’ll be able to cope with other employees, clients and your boss.
Sit up straight and lean slightly forward
Many candidates have been rejected a number of times because they were too laid back in their interview. Try to avoid this. Sitting up straight and leaning slightly forward shows that you are concentrating and interested in what your interviewer is saying. Never try to make yourself appear too big by the way you sit, else it will show that you don’t have enough energy to work and may also seem resistant to duties.
Avoid talking too much during your interview
One of the most common interviewing mistakes is talking too much. Avoid beating about the bush with too many explanations; rather go straight to the point. During periods of silence, just sit there in silence. Never try to run the show, allow your employer to do that.
Show Appreciation
Most candidates always forget this very important part. Try to take the extra step to say thank you at the end of your interview. This singular act does not only show that you appreciated the interview process but also provides you the opportunity to reiterate your interest in the job and why you think you are the best candidate for the job.
