The first few minutes of the interview are crucial in shaping the impression you make. During this time, the interviewer decides whether it is worthwhile to continue the interview or merely ask a few more formal questions before concluding.
Therefore, avoid arriving or calling late and choose appropriate attire. Strive to build rapport with the interviewer and make a strong initial presentation, just as you rehearsed at home.
If you succeed in making a good first impression, stay focused and consider every word and gesture carefully.
There are additional pitfalls to avoid:
- Ensure your mobile phone is switched off. Do not answer calls or respond to messages during the interview as this shows disrespect and a lack of seriousness about the job.
- Avoid chewing gum or speaking with candy in your mouth. Do not lounge or stretch out in your chair. Avoid crossing your arms, covering your mouth, fiddling with objects, or frequently changing your posture. These behaviors are often associated with dishonesty. Similarly, avoid touching your nose, hair, clothes, or biting or licking your lips, as these actions can indicate stress and deceit.
- Don’t be passive or indecisive, but also avoid rushing your responses or speaking excessively.
- Avoid delving into irrelevant topics that are unrelated to the interview, position, or question asked.
- Think carefully before stating that you are only interested in the position as a temporary option while you look for other opportunities.
- Avoid appearing overly serious or overly casual. Maintain a professional demeanor without assuming familiarity with the interviewer. Extremes can leave the impression that you are superficial or unreliable.
- Maintain appropriate eye contact. Do not fixate on the interviewer or avoid eye contact altogether. When addressing a panel, engage all members, not just the one asking the questions.
- Always address interviewers respectfully—do not use their first names unless invited, and do not confuse their names.
- Wait your turn to speak, avoiding interruptions or answering prematurely.
- Refrain from correcting interviewers or displaying a sense of superiority, unless you are planning to buy the company... :D
- Do not speak negatively about your past or current employers. Avoid making excuses for issues from previous jobs and show a willingness to accept criticism.
- Keep personal details to a minimum; personal information does not pertain to your professional capabilities. Answer tactless questions diplomatically.
- Do not fabricate or exaggerate your skills or achievements. Experienced interviewers will likely detect falsehoods, damaging your chances of securing the job.
- Do not bring up salary discussions at the beginning or even during the first interview.
- Avoid appearing desperate for the job. Remember, employment is a mutual agreement—both you and your employer should feel comfortable with the arrangement. There are always other opportunities.
At the end of the interview
At the end of the interview, be sure to thank the interviewers and wish them success in finding the most suitable candidate for the position.
Mastering the appropriate behavior and responses during an interview is a skill that can take years to develop, or it can be enhanced through professional consultation. We at ExcluCV are eager to be a part of your success! Impress employers - don't just be chosen, choose!
The next article is on how to answer difficult questions during a job interview. Click here to read it :)