Appearance, etiquette, and body language are very important to your success in the interview. Before you say a word, how you present yourself says volumes about you.
* Dress appropriately. While this may sound trivial, failing at this can sabotage your efforts in getting the job. Do not under-dress for the first interview. You always want to dress well to make a good impression. For subsequent interviews, I recommend still dressing professionally, though at least one step above the work environment is appropriate. The only appropriate way to dress for this interview is clean-cut and conservative. This may not reflect your normal everyday self, but the purpose of dressing this way is to get others to see you in the best possible light. Your hair should be trimmed neatly. You should be as fresh and clean as possible at your interview time. Use deodorant, but avoid aftershaves or perfume. Fragrances are rarely appropriate in the workplace and can only work against you in the interview. Wear conservative jewelry. Do not be ostentatious. Keep your breath fresh.
* Sit up straight, relax, and don’t fidget. You need to demonstrate that you are in control and prepared. Appearing nervous or intimidated will show a lack of self-confidence.
* Make eye contact. This is the time to build rapport, show interest, and demonstrate your ability to communicate with other people.
* Use a firm, moderate tone when talking.
* Think positive, and translate this to your body language.
Body Language is a critical component of interviewing correctly. Understanding body language can help you in the interview process. Pay attention of the following:
* Body language accounts for 55% of the communication process. Communication is enhanced by or hindered by your distance from the interviewer. If you’re too close, it can be distracting or may feel like an invasion of “personal space; too far away can prevent the establishment of a personal connection. Keep your hand and arm movements comfortable and under control. Being too animated conveys nervousness, and being too rigid conveys fear or lack of interest.
* Tone of voice conveys 38% of your message. Being too loud or soft or having excessive tone ranges or even a monotone voice can impact your communication with the interviewer.
* The words themselves are only 7% of the communication process. The proper words are important to effectively communicate your message, but they are worthless if you have improper body language or tone of voice.
* A smile conveys energy and enthusiasm.
* Wimpy handshakes convey a weak personality. Have a firm, confident handshake.
* Sit straight and lean forward slightly as this shows interest and energy.
* After meeting your interviewer, do not sit down until they either ask you to, or after they sit.
* At the end of the interview, stand up when the interviewer stands or signals the end of the interview.
ENJOY and Good Hunting
