Impressing your interviewer with your background and skill set are not the only things you need to prepare for when going to an in-person interview. Research from Harvard University suggests that social skills are the most important factor in landing a position (and keeping it).
Are you making these nonverbal mistakes that could cost you your dream job?
Poor or overly zealous eye contact. We have all heard that it is extremely important to make eye contact with someone in order to hold a valuable conversation. However, over compensating with eye contact can also make someone feel very uncomfortable and will distract them from what you have to say. Make sure that you are following your interviewer’s level of eye contact and find the perfect balance.
Little knowledge of the company. This is a rule of thumb: know the company you are interviewing for. Having little or no knowledge of the company is one of the most common mistakes job candidates have. Although this may not be a direct nonverbal action, the lack in familiarization with the company you are interviewing with will definitely show. If you have some insight and excitement for the company you are interviewing with, your body language will reflect this.
Over the top or nervous gestures. Try to control any nervous habits you may have including tapping your foot, running your hands through your hair, shaking your leg, fidgeting, etc. This can also include over the top hand gestures while you speak. These habits are extremely distracting and the hiring manager will be able to see your excessive nervousness!
Lack of facial expressions. Smile! This is your first impression, and you need to show your true personality. Make sure to smile and show that you are excited to be meeting with this manager and for the opportunity to discuss this position. Lack in positive facial expressions during an interview can be a huge turnoff for hiring managers. We all have emotions, and a manager wants to see that you are human and not a robot.
Poor posture. Crossing your arms, leaning back, and other poor postures can come off as a lack of interest in the position. Make sure to sit in your chair properly and do not keep a closed off stance.
Odd attire. We could go on and on about proper interviewing attire, but instead we will leave you with this: make sure to dress for the position you want. Do some research and dress to fit the role and company culture. A few tips include avoiding bright colors, distracting accessories, or anything unprofessional.
Too much perfume or cologne. This is an obvious one, but still worth mentioning. Play it safe and leave the perfume or cologne at home on the day of your interview. What you may think is the perfect scent, may be extremely overwhelming to the hiring manager and a huge turnoff. This can be super distracting and ultimately you want your interviewer to remember you and not your scent!
Here is a great infographic from Classes and Careers to help you prepare further:
