Career Advice Expert Advice

Act the part to get the part

Job interviewing from a hiring manager’s perspective is often a crap shoot, with statistics showing that one in three new hires do not work out. Put this way, you could perhaps understand why they might be a little sensitive to poor behaviour.

Here are some tips that will help you stay the course:
Be on time; Research the company, the role, its responsibilities and what makes you think you can contribute if they hire you. When the interviewer greets you, extend your hand, look them straight in the eye, and offer a greeting. Make sure your handshake is firm, but not crushing.

Wait for their cue before you sit. If you are offered a choice, choose the chair closest to and directly opposite the interviewer. This will demonstrate your confidence.

When seated, try to keep relatively still. Always make eye contact throughout the entire interview - but don’t overdo it.

You may also wish to – occasionally – to repeat and acknowledge the interviewer's questions before you answer as this reinforces your wish to understand the question clearly.

Often, people forget to turn off their mobile phone. This is sometimes interpreted as poor etiquette and sends a distinct indication to the interviewer on how serious you are taking the interview.