That first impression can be a great beginning, or a quick ending to your interview.
Three areas of performance, which should be considered dangerous and deadly, are worth spending some time thinking about before your next interview.
1. Poor non-verbal communication image
It’s about demonstrating confidence
• Stand straight, and make good eye contact. (Note the color of the interviewer’s eyes.)
• Connect with a good, firm handshake. (There’s nothing like a limp response in a handshake.)
• Sit erect and lean forward in the chair, appearing interested and attentive. (Slumping denotes a lazy attitude.)
2. Poor verbal communication skills
Your interviewer is giving you information, either directly or indirectly.
• Good communication skills include listening and letting the person know you heard what they said.
• Observe your interviewer’s style and pace and match that style, adjusting your style and pace to match.
• Use appropriate language. (Beware of using slang words or references to age, race, religion, politics, or sexual preferences – these topics could get the door slammed very quickly.)
• Telling the interviewer more than they need to know could be a fatal mistake. (Too much information – particularly personal information – could get into some areas that are best not discussed in an interview.)
