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UNDERSTANDING INTERVIEW ETIQUETTE

Interview Etiquette

Understanding Interview etiquette is considered  essential for every job Seeker when looking for a job for the first time or as a seasoned professional,  It is advisable you understand the basic skill in interview etiquette so as to make a good first impression. 

 

As an  interview etiquette, you should practice some of the commonly asked question during  interviews such as “why do you want to work for this company?” where do you see yourself in the next five years or what are your strength and weakness. 

Also acquaint yourself with the proper answer that suit the question, this should be done with a sense of confidence. 

All of this will help clarify your thoughts and make you much more comfortable during the interview.

Here are some approaches to have in mind:

Don’t be Late, Don’t be too early

This may seem like it goes without saying, but you’d be surprised how many job seekers  turn up late to interviews.

Give yourself a good hour before the interview to sit back, relax and regroup.

If you are, for unforeseen circumstances, running late, it’s very important that you are courteous and apologetic to your interviewer.

Call ahead to let them know you’re running behind and try to collect yourself before entering the interview (looking hot, flustered and confused is not going to help your professional image).

Another pet hate of many interviewers is extreme earliness.

Remember, chances are that your interviewer will have other tasks to complete and even need some time to prepare themselves before the interview. when you arrive earlier and sit waiting, it could leave them feeling under pressure, rushed and even slightly irritated (they may feel a sense of guilt for making you wait).

Arriving 15 minutes early is just about perfect.

Work on your body language

Bad body language is a big interview blunder. Your interviewer doesn’t really have that much to go on when they make their final decision. Chances are that they’ll only get to meet you once or twice before hiring and that means that during the interview they’ll be scrutinizing your every move.

 

More Interview etiquette

Sit up straight make sure you look genuinely interested.

keep good eye contact.

Don’t slouch.

Don’t lean forward, towards the interviewer.

Do not point.

Avoid crossing  your arms.

Stop staring  for too long.

Stay clam no fidgeting.

resist the urge to start looking around the room.

Your body language will betray some of your feelings in the interview, so if you can take control of your body, it could go a long way towards smashing the interview. There is always need to be aware of what you’re communicating through your posture and stance make sure it’s good.

 For example, sitting with your arms and legs crossed sends a message that you are closed-off or feel defensive. 

If you keep your hands in your lap the entire interview, you could signal that  lack of self-confidence.

And, twirling your hair can make you look nervous or juvenile. Think your movements through ahead of time so you’re not distracted (or distracting) during the interview.

Ask relevant question

Always be mindful of the fact that this job interview is always two ways , an opportunity for you to sell yourself to the company, but also to learn more about the workplace to see if the position and environment are a good fit for you. 

Go in with a few questions, such as details about the type of work that the position entails, the corporate culture, and the typical career path of someone who holds the position. Don’t be scared to speak up: not asking questions can signal that you’re uninformed or uninterested.

Dress the Part

Understanding interview etiquette mostly gives us an opportunity to make good impression of ourselves to the intending employer, so make sure you’re dressed smart and decent.

Many candidates feel unsure and nervous about what to wear for an interview, fearing ridicule if they dare to turn up in clothes that are too smart (or too casual) but the truth is, it’s always better to go overdressed! but do some investigation to find out what the corporate dress culture is before you walk through the door.

Whether your potential employers have a casual office uniform or not, you need to dress to impress and prove that you’re willing to put in some effort to win them over!

A dark suit (jacket and pants or skirt) and a crisp white shirt, manicured nails, simple make-up, and clean, professional shoes will be perfect in most cases. And, definitely avoid dangling earrings, too much perfume, and multiple, clanking bracelets.

Smile

A job interview is considered a high-pressure situation, but looking nervous will lose you points in the few critical moments you have to make a good impression. Smiling naturally will make you appear confident, friendly, and approachable. 

Even if you’re not feeling it, fake it. A smile conveys that you’re someone who can get along with fellow employees.

Conclusion

Understanding Interview etiquette is essential for every job Seeker newbie or even seasoned professional, we hope you have learned alot we wish you good luck in your interview.

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