Shining during your job interview is a nearly surefire way to land yourself an offer. However, to impress hiring managers, you need more than just the ability to talk about your skills and experience. Practicing proper etiquette is also an essential part of making an excellent impression. If you aren’t sure you’re getting it right, here are the top eight interview etiquette tips that you should be using.
1. Be on Time
Punctuality is crucial for making a good impression. Plan to arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes early to give yourself a buffer against the unexpected. Additionally, if you do end up running late due to unforeseen circumstances, make sure to contact the hiring manager as soon as you know an issue is arising, increasing the odds that they’ll work with you to adjust your interview time.
2. Dress Appropriately
Dressing professionally shows respect for the interviewer and the company. The dress code varies from company to company, so research the company culture and dress accordingly. Additionally, consider dressing one step above what’s allowed for daily wear, as going the extra mile by a small but noticeable margin works in your favor.
3. Prepare and Rehearse Your Answers
Preparation is the key to interview success. Spend time researching the company, job, and interviewer, allowing you to ensure your answers to the interview questions align with their needs and speak to their values. Then, practice your answers before the interview to increase your comfort level, ensuring you can respond confidently.
4. Don’t Touch Your Phone
Using your phone in any capacity once you arrive for your interview doesn’t usually make a great impression, and touching it during the interview is automatically going to put hiring managers off. Make sure you silence or turn off your phone before you walk into the building, and leave it in a pocket or bag during the entire interview process.
5. Watch Your Body Language
Your body language during an interview speaks volumes, so you want to ensure it’s sending the right message. Avoid defensive postures – like sitting with your arms crossed – and nervous gestures, such as hair twirling or regularly adjusting your clothing. Additionally, make eye contact with the interviewer to show that you are confident and engaged.
6. Show Enthusiasm
A lack of enthusiasm makes it seem like your attendance at the interview is somehow obligatory, and some hiring managers may interpret it as a lack of respect or appreciation. As a result, it’s wise to show enthusiasm for the job and the company. Express your interest in the position in your answers, and ask questions about the role, company, and culture to further show that you’re engaged.
7. Practice Active Listening
When the hiring manager speaks, use active listening skills to ensure you fully take in what’s shared. While asking a clarifying question during the interview is fine, needing anything repeated because you weren’t focused can seem rude and unprofessional. As a result, make sure you’re listening carefully throughout the meeting.
8. Send a Thank You Note
Sending a thank you note after an interview not only lets you show your appreciation to the interviewer; it also helps you assert your continued interest in the position. As a result, it’s a small but powerful gesture that’s always worth doing.
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