4. Creating a Favourable Impression During Interview
Understanding and following good interview etiquette is all-important for a successful interview outcome.
First impressions: You may already have heard of the four minute rule. It takes four minutes for a person to form a view, positive or negative, of another person when they meet for the first time.
This means that the first impressions you create in the interviewer's mind are crucial. Thinking in advance what and how you will introduce yourself is therefore important. Rehearsing with a colleague or family member can help. Focus on:
- Your handshake - firm but not overbearing
- Your eyes - directed at the interviewer when shaking their hand
- Your body - upright, open and facing towards the interviewer
- Your voice - clear and concise, stating your name
- Your mouth - smiling towards the interviewer and any other employee in contact with
- Build rapport with the interviewer by continuing the conversation or asking questions about the organisation or their role
Follow the interviewer's cues: Follow the interviewer's lead and cues to ensure you do not offend them in any way, e.g.
- Sit in the chair the interviewer guides you to
- Follow the structure of the interview e.g. ask questions when invited to do so
- Answer the question honestly and concisely
- Use humour with caution especially where you do not know the interviewer and do not therefore know how the interviewer will respond
- Provide specific examples of past behaviour when asked to
- Ask your pre-prepared questions when the opportunity arises
- Ask the interviewer if there is time to show them some examples of past successes
- Thank the interviewer/s for their time
We hope these job interview tips were useful in preparing you for your next interview and subsequent career move and we wish you every success in your chosen path.
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Psychometric Testing
You may find our SHL test preparation guide useful if job interview candidate screening for the role is to include a psychometric test.
About the Author
Written by Kim Larkins.
