Tips to mind your body language for that upcoming interview

a job interview session

Most of us would probably agree that first impressions matter. What we may not know is that the opinion we get from someone we’ve just met is often thanks to the concept of body language.

Muse’s career coach Eloise Eonnet shares that humans read each other’s body language and vocal delivery to make fast conclusions about whether we like, trust, or respect a person. Similarly, these snap judgments significantly affect the hiring decision of an interviewer.

Thus, while what you’ve prepared verbally plays an important part, what you do not say but reveal is equally weighty. In fact, studies have shown that facial behaviours like smiles and eye contact are considerable factors for employers.

“Facial expressions can be the most misunderstood nonverbal cue. Our faces tell more of the story than any words we use. Being mindful of how you express emotion when speaking (or when not) is important when interviewing,” says Monique Sample, a Virginia Commonwealth University Career Services representative.

With so much at stake, here are some tips to mind your body language for that upcoming interview.

#1: Enter strong

If you believe you’re being watched the moment you step into the company building, be sure to enter strong. Your communication with the secretary, receptionist, or HR assistant is as crucial as meeting with the hiring manager.

Be polite, confident, and maintain eye contact as you speak or introduce yourself. Nod or smile at your potential future colleagues should you meet them by the hallway to your waiting or interview room.

#2: Watch your wandering eyes

How would you feel if you’re conversing with someone, but the other party’s eyes are just wandering all over the place? Would you want to continue the conversation? Or would you attempt to end the conversation quickly?

As Eonnet rightly points out, your listener will only feel genuinely engaged with you if you are looking at them. Even if they do not respond verbally to your output, an internal response is sufficient to feel a connection.

#3: Pay attention to your arms & posture

Peeps who tend to slouch can try resting their arms on the table or desk. This will also prevent excessive gesturing, which can be a distraction. It also allows your body to lean a little forward, showing that you’re listening attentively to the hiring manager as they speak.

While paying attention to too many hand motions is essential, don’t let that bother you too much. You don’t want to appear too stiff in front of your interviewers, or worse still, develop fidgeting in other areas because your natural hand movements are forcefully curbed.

Final thoughts
a woman recording herself

Image Credits: premiumbeat.com

The wise old saying still stands – practice makes perfect. But to practise, you will need to find out how you behave in a mock interview.

Record yourself as you speak to an imaginary person or ask a close friend to observe you as you answer some sample interview questions. Get sufficient rest before your interview day, and don’t bash yourself up even if you didn’t get to show all that you’ve prepared.

Do your best and let fate handle the rest! Good luck.

Read More...

Quit Sending These Job Interview Red Flags

The new year beams with career possibilities and job opportunities. As more and more stores have opened, many eager candidates have been given the chance to shine. These candidates bring their best behavior during job interviews. They give answers that the employer wants to hear and attempt to convince him that he or she is the right person for the job.

Knowing which interview red flags to watch out for can help you speed up the process of screening and hiring. You do not want to feel the costs of hiring badly, nor do you want to send the wrong message to an interviewer. Consider these tips.

#1: ARRIVING LATE FOR THE INTERVIEW

Tardiness demonstrates a lack of respect for people and their time. It is the hallmark of unsuccessful people. When a candidate arrives late, he or she gets flustered and apologetic. This type of person can keep meetings from starting, conduct customer visits following their schedules, and constantly say that they will be late for work.

With so many qualified candidates, why would an interviewer hire someone who is late? An employer must not hire someone who is late for the most important meeting of his or her career.

#2: LACK OF COMPANY KNOWLEDGE

Red flags are shinning when you show little to no knowledge about the company’s products or services, customers, and target audience. It is essential for a candidate to research on the company’s background as they prepare for the interview. Start by reading through the pages of the company’s website.

A candidate who has no knowledge about the company shows lack of preparation and interest about the prospective role. You may come across as someone who fits poorly within the company’s values and goals.

#3: LACK OF OWNERSHIP

Another red flag is a candidate who does not admit to any responsibility for his or her past mistakes. It is unpleasant if you blame your co-workers, bosses, and previous company for failed projects and more.

As an interviewer, you must listen carefully to the reasons why someone left his previous job. The right candidate will admit to errors, make thoughtful mistakes, and do their best to repair their problems.

#4: BRAGGING ABOUT OTHER OFFERS

If you want to convey that you are desirable, bragging about your other offers is not a good idea. Arrogance is not an attractive quality. However, mentioning about other offers may not always be a red flag. At the later stages of your job application, it is alright to be transparent when it comes to your other offers. You can say something like this:

Image Credits: pixabay.com

“I am very interested in the position you have offered me. Please let me know the timing and details for the next step, because I am also evaluating another offer.”

Sources: 1 & 2

 

 

Read More...

Avoid These Job Interview Red Flags

As we ring in the new Year of the Ox, there are several personal and professional milestones that we can climb. You are not alone in the battlefield of job hunting. While some interviews are pleasant, others can leave you disappointed. Throughout my career in the education field, I have been in both sides of the story.

I was able to interview talented teachers as a Directress and was able to sit through countless of interviews myself. When an interview turns sour, what do you do? You can either run away to other opportunities or settle for less than what you deserve. It is easy to walk away from a bad interview when you feel that you have more opportunities waiting in store. However, there are some people who have taken positions despite the red flags. These people are worried that they might not get another job. Given the current situation, I cannot blame them!

If you are caught in this situation, it is likely that you will feel emotionally and physically worn out as the months pass. Consider politely refusing an offer and search for better opportunities instead. On that note, here are some red flags that will make you run away from an interview.

#1: WHEN THE INTERVIEWER IS LATE

It is understandable that hiring managers will encounter emergencies from time to time. Being late for a couple of minutes is forgivable. However, not respecting someone’s time is rude and bad for business. Most hiring managers need to give themselves at least 10 minutes of prep before the candidate comes in. They use this time to read the C.V. and to prepare the application forms of the candidates. If your interviewer is late during the appointment, imagine how they will act as your boss.

#2: WHEN THE INTERVIEWER SAYS INAPPROPRIATE WORDS ABOUT YOUR PREDECESSOR

While it is appropriate for the interviewer to describe the current roles in the department or how the company is structured, be cautious when the interviewer starts to badmouth the person who left. Speaking poorly about a person they are replacing shows a view of his or her character. I cannot guarantee that the interviewer will not do the same thing to you.

#3: WHEN THE SCHEDULING IS DISORGANIZED

It is common to experiences a few missteps when it comes to the interview scheduling process. It is not simple to coordinate multiple people with strict schedules. Moreover, managers and leaders are often pulled into last-minute meetings. These are normal. However, you need to be concerned when they reschedule over and over again. This shows that they do not value your time or that you must adjust your schedule to accommodate to their needs.

#4: WHEN THE COMPANY OR ORGANIZATION HAS A HIGH TURNOVER RATE

Do your research before a job interview. Check LinkedIn to see what the working culture is like and which of your friends may have worked at the given company before. If the interviewer mentions that they are refilling the role for the second time this year, it is important to ask why. If the turnover rate is high in an organization, please proceed with caution.

#5: WHEN THE INTERVIEWER DISPLAYS OFFENSIVE BEHAVIOR

Inclusion, diversity, and equity play a crucial role in a company. A workplace free from racism, sexism, harassment, discrimination, and political intolerance is ideal. In reality, these exists in varying degrees in different companies. Be observant when it comes to offensive behaviors during your interview. Exit politely, if necessary.

#6: WHEN THE INTERVIEWER IS CONFUSED ABOUT YOUR ROLE

Is the interviewer belittling your profession? Is he or she confused about your role? Be concerned! Your responsibilities and duties must be given to you clearly. The leaders and the rest of the team must be completely aligned with the company’s vision, mission, strategy, and roadmap.

Image Credits: unsplash.come

Sources: 1 & 2

 

Read More...

An experienced executive recruiter shares ways on how to cope with rejection from job search

receiving a job interview rejection

We get it. You’ve been sending out resumes and going for interviews but to no avail. Coupled with the pandemic with no clear end in sight, it’s tough to cope. In fact, more job cuts are expected amid COVID-19 according to Singapore’s tripartite advisory. The competition for job openings is definitely intense out there.

Furthermore, it’s probably common to be faced with more rejections in recent months. We understand it’s not easy to deal with them… especially if you’re constantly worried about your monthly expenditures and how to keep up with your daily spendings. Thankfully, an experienced executive recruiter shares with us some ways to cope with rejection.

#1: Everyone is in this together

While it’s possible to step out of an interview feeling like you’ve aced it, don’t beat yourself up if you don’t get a reply from the interviewer. Take some comfort in knowing that everyone else is in the same situation together. You’re not the only person having feelings of fear, stress, or situational depression from rejection.

#2: It’s just not meant to be

Overthinking might be the worst thing to do after being ghosted or rejected. If you’re trying to find some closure, maybe telling yourself that ‘it’s just not meant to be’ will work. As cliche as it sounds, the right time (and position) will come when it’s due. Not getting selected for a position doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re not good enough.

#3: Look within yourself
fidgeting during an interview

Image Credits: Depositphotos

You may be highly competent for a job on paper and experience-wise but sometimes it’s good to look within yourself. By that, we mean an analysis of your approach. How do you think you carry yourself during an interview? When asked why you left your previous position, do you start to unload by putting the blame on your ex-colleagues? Or do you exude positive attitudes instead?

#4: Ask for an opinion and adapt

If you think the constant rejections you’ve received have to do with the way you speak or approach an interview, ask for an opinion. Gather a few friends you can trust or mentors you look up to and share your interview style. Listen to their honest feedback and make the change if necessary. Then, keep practising till you’re confident of your pitch.

#5: Adjust your definition of success

Here, we’re talking about managing your expectations. Your pre-pandemic job goals might make sense in a strong job market. But we all know that’s not the case as the world battles the virus and its effects on our lives. Even if your present circumstances might seem far from your original dream job, celebrate the small victories along the way.

#6: Be well aware of your outstanding qualities
Colleagues having a discussion

Image Credits: Freepik

Constant rejection can zap away your confidence and make you doubt the good qualities you have. It’s important to be well aware of your outstanding qualities and triumphant achievements in the past no matter the job interview result. To help counter a negative thought, mentally recall a moment in time where you managed to prevail over adversity.

#7: Keep a list of positive affirmations

You will be surprised to know the marvellous effects of positive affirmations on a tired and defeated mind.

“This is merely a minor setback; I will find a new job!” 

“Just because I was rejected for the job does not diminish my self-worth and value.” 

“I am smart, talented, and have a lot to offer.”

“I won’t give up and will make it through this tough time!”

#8: Take good care of yourself

You’re the only person in full control of your mind, body, and spirit. To cope with rejection the healthy way, it’s essential to take good care of yourself. Eat well, exercise, and keep up with that positive social interaction. It also helps to expose yourself to stories of successful people who’ve gone through the fire pit and risen up stronger. The right time will come for you. Take heart!

Read More...

6 Surefire Ways To Ace A First Impression

Present yourself in the right light with the help of these tips.

#1: BE PUNCTUAL

The fine strokes of impression starts as soon as you walk the room. In Japan, they have mastered the management of time. Most Japanese naturally acquired the habit of punctuality. Showing up early or on time displays their respect for other people. Nothing is more disrespectful than having your interviewer or potential client wait for you for 30 minutes.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

If you are running late due to unforeseen circumstances, it is best to let the people know. Call the interviewer or the client as soon as possible. He or she will appreciate this gesture more than hearing a lame excuse upon your arrival.

#2: DRESS THE PART

Who does not want to be seen as well put-together during the first meeting?

It goes without saying that the quickest elements of impression formation include the physical appearance. It does not matter whether you are interviewing for a modelling gig or not. You will be judged with thru way you look. Showing up in a neatly pressed suit or a tailored dress comes across as professional and organized.

#3: RELAX THE FACE

When you are nervous or lying, your autonomic nervous system goes into an overdrive. You will unconsciously make significant movements such as scratching your nose, pulling your hair, or touching your cheeks. Some may even chew the pen’s cap during written assessments. These body movements give off a sense of judgment and lack of confidence.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Be mindful about your actions during the interview or the product proposal!

#4: PAY ATTENTION

As obvious as this may seem, shaping a stellar impression includes being present at the given moment. Physical presence does not stop at the face-to-face interactions. You must be mentally active during the conversation too! Ensure that you are coming across as someone who is interested and engaged with the other person.

Start by calling the interviewer or the client using their name during the entire conversation then, you may paraphrase their thoughts from time to time. Listen to what the other person is saying and tailor your responses accordingly.

#5: TOSS THE PHONE

Putting your devices and smartphone away is primarily applicable in this modern age. Do not immediately turn to your phone while waiting in the lobby. Use this time to double-check your CV or to contemplate on the proposal topics.

When the interviewer or the boss comes, you will appear prepared for the task at hand!

#6: BE POSITIVE

A person with a pleasing personality is hard to find. This is why positive people give a lasting impression. It is easy to connect to a person who portrays a friendly attitude through his or her command of words and body language.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

So, greet the interviewer or the potential client with a genuine smile. Then, ensure that the topics that you will discuss are on the neutral ground. Showing a hint of your sense of humor would not hurt too (i.e., during appropriate instances)!

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...