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By far,
interview etiquette remains the third most important
factor that decides the fates of most job candidates.
Subject expertise or skills and body language are the
only two qualities that score over interview etiquette,
according to expert human resource practitioners. These
elements gain importance, as they are often the only
indications of a candidate's character.
Interview Etiquette: An
Overview
If
etiquette can be described as rules governing socially
acceptable behavior, they apply to a job interview too,
in the same fashion. Good etiquette shows from the
moment you enter the company, and how you conduct
yourself, until you are called.
1.
Unless someone shows you in, knock at the door before
you enter.
2.
Being lenient with dressing, un-pressed clothing or
wearing casual clothing for interviews is simply not
good etiquette. An office environment and especially
interviews call for formal dress.
3.
Greeting the interviewer is another aspect of etiquette.
Greet him before he greets you, and with a firm
handshake. Be assertive in shaking hands, as this is
where you can start building a good impression.
Remember, being assertive does not mean you are
aggressive. Some people slightly take back their
opposite shoulder and bend forward simultaneously while
shaking hands as a show of respect. But don't indulge in
over doing it or shaking hands for endless seconds.
4.
Wait until they offer a seat to you or you can ask them
if you can have a seat. Choose a seat opposite the
interviewer so you can keep direct eye contact. You can
sit in a semi-casual position. Crossing the legs at
knees may be alright but you should never put a foot
over your opposite knee. Shaking your legs during the
interview or scratching your head are things to avoid.
5.
If you are offered a business card, don't just stuff it
into your pocket; instead, study the card for a while.
You should ask a pertinent question too. Never write
anything on the card; it is not your notepad.
6.
Trying to monopolize the conversation will often annoy
the interviewer. Making rude remarks or speaking
negatively about your past employers will expose the
down side of your character. Sitting there with nothing
to say can be seen as a negative. You have to have
something to say, even if it is just small talk.
7.
When you are asked to talk about yourself, they are not
asking about your family or personal history. This is
your opportunity to make the most of your time; talk
about how you can contribute to the organization and so
on.
8.
Avoid discussing salary in the beginning unless the
interviewer brings it up first.
9.
Never forget to thank the interviewer before you leave
the room; also don't forget to ask whether they want you
to get in touch with them or when they can get back to
you.
10.
On your way out, give a thank you and a smile to the
receptionist or secretary. These are the people that
will often give feedback to the interviewer.
Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal.
Aveta Solution's Six Sigma Online offers online six
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