Nailing a job interview is not only about your resume, experience and technical skills. Your behaviour and manners play a major role and add value to your overall performance before, during and after any job interview.
Since applying for jobs became an online process, you need to know that from the moment you click “apply now”, your actions and reactions might be noticed and evaluated. And for you to stand out among all other candidates, here are some interview etiquette tips to help you improve your etiquette skills and master the art of interviews.
- Dress to Impress
Before going to any job interview, you need to inquire about the dress code at the company.
“You can never be overdressed or overeducated.” Oscar Wilde.
Always dress up for an interview, even if you are applying for a job at a company that is known for its casual dress code and relaxed environment. Dressing up and being well groomed shows respect to the company and interest in the interview. - Arrive on time
When they say arrive on time, they actually mean 10 minutes before your interview. You will need those 10 minutes to approach the receptionist and introduce yourself, you might be asked to provide your ID or sometimes you might go through a security check.
On the other hand, it doesn’t look professional to arrive more than 10 minutes early, unless you were asked to do so. - Introductions
When entering the interview room, smile and make eye contact with the interviewer while maintaining an open posture to show positive attitude and confidence. Introduce yourself using your first and last name while you shake hands professionally.
After shaking hands with the interviewer, wait to be invited to sit down. Make sure you place
your personal items in your bag/pockets, don’t place them on the table. - Take the Water
Usually, you will be offered a glass of water at the beginning of the interview, and even if you are not thirsty, accepting it is always better than asking for it later, after declining it. - Silence
Sometimes during an interview, you will face moments of silence, and that’s totally normal. Don’t try to break the silence, even if it felt awkward, and let the interviewer set the pace of the interview. - Exiting the Interview
The way you end an interview is as important as the introduction stage. Make eye contact with the interviewer, shake hands professionally and use his/her name while shaking hands. Maintain an open posture and a smile on your face while leaving the room. Keep in your mind that your interview is not over until you leave the building, so your cellphone needs to stay off/silent until then. - Thank-You Note
As much as it sounds old fashioned, sending a hand-written note to the interviewer shows good manners. Express your appreciation for the time the interviewer spent with you in a short thank-you note. And just like any other soft skill, practice makes perfect, so be prepared to practice those
etiquette tips until they become part of your built-in soft skills during your job interviews.
