Appropriate Behavior During a Job Interview

Sales techniques often focus on building rapport or relationships by mirroring behaviors. This is based on the principle that when there are similarities between two people, each perceives the other more positively.

Simply put, this means observing how the interviewer behaves. If they are calm and balanced, it would not be in your favor to behave emotionally or temperamentally.

It has been proven that most perceived communication comes from non-verbal body language—posture, movements, expressions. During the interview, your goal will be to control your nonverbal messages, as well as to capture and mimic the interviewer's style of behavior. This is why it's important to have your "homework" done in advance and to be prepared for your presentation so that you don’t focus solely on how and in what words to present yourself.

As a first step, it is very important that you arrive on time for the interview. This holds true for online interviews as well. A delay, regardless of the reason, is perceived as disrespect and lack of interest on your part. Plan your time wisely. Even if you arrive early and have to wait, it is much better than being late. A delay would unfortunately create a negative first impression.

In addition to timing, the clothes you wear will make an impression. This is also true for an online interview. Therefore, as mentioned in a previous post, be diligent and analyze the corporate environment through the company's website and any other available information and choose the most appropriate attire. If the company adheres to a strict and formal style, dress accordingly. If there appears to be no dress code, opt for a smart business style. Your attitude towards clothing will reflect your attitude towards work and the company. Show respect. Ripped jeans and T-shirts are not the best choices for the crucial first minutes when an impression of you is formed.

Wait for the interviewers to invite you to start.

Pay attention to your posture and body language—do not cross your arms in front of your chest, cover your lips with your hand, fiddle with objects, or frequently change your body position.

From the beginning, try to calmly and positively demonstrate motivation for the position and the organization, without appearing tense. This can differentiate you from other candidates who likely have skills and experiences similar to yours.

Listen carefully to the questions you are asked and do not rush to answer. Consider your answers and express yourself concisely, clearly, and grammatically correctly. Do not interrupt or speak out of turn.

Smile and maintain eye contact with the interviewer. In a panel interview, direct your answer to the person who asked the question while also engaging other panel members with eye contact.

Try to understand the reason each question is being asked. This will help you formulate your responses. It is important to demonstrate good competencies, positive thinking, flexibility, adaptability, and a results-oriented mindset, as well as to reassure the interviewers about your desire to work long-term with the company. While answering, show how your skills meet the company's needs.

You should already be prepared for your initial presentation, the examples you will give, and how to discuss difficult topics such as weaknesses and failures. Don’t make the interviewers have to coax words out of you. This can make everyone nervous.

Remember to also focus on your readiness to acquire new skills, take on new responsibilities, and develop. Radiate confidence, maturity, and vitality—you should have already rehearsed this at home.

Avoid raising or discussing topics related to politics, religion, ethnicity, or prejudices. Most companies have special policies to prevent discrimination. Your comments could easily be interpreted as discriminatory, and with that, the recruitment process would immediately end for you.

Be honest! Don’t pretend to be someone you are not. Do not exaggerate your skills or achievements. In most cases, this is noticeable and could jeopardize your chances of being hired. Emphasize your strengths. If past failures are brought up, explain the circumstances briefly, without making excuses or blaming others.

As mentioned in the previous post, ask questions that show interest in the company, its organizational culture, and the goals of the organization, even why the interviewer chose to work at this company and what they enjoy most about it. You could also inquire about the next steps in the selection process.

Be sure to thank the interviewers at the end of the meeting and wish them success in finding the most suitable candidate for the position.

Understanding how to behave during an interview and respond without undermining yourself is a skill that often requires years of experience or professional consultation.