Interview Etiquette – What Should and Should Not Be Done

The United Kingdom has historically been known for following stringent etiquette practices in every walk of life ranging from dining etiquette to greeting etiquette. When you are on a lookout for a job and have a scheduled interview coming up, then make sure that you follow the proper interview etiquette, lest you damage your chances of landing the job. Below given are some of the most important points that you need to keep in mind and follow in order to improve your chances of getting the job.

Things that should be done

The basic interview etiquette is to be there on time. Being unpunctual can be the biggest strikes against you. Handshake is the second most important thing. A weak handshake is always taken to symbolize a weak personality and hence, shake hands firmly with all the interviewers while greeting them. All though the interview, it is important that you be attentive and focused on the proceedings. Your dressing forms a very important part of the interview etiquette. Being formally dressed is your safest bet. If the company has a dress code for candidates, make sure that you follow it. The posture while sitting has to be erect and confident. Stooped postures never form a good impression. You can ask questions during the interview but never interrupt the interviewer. Speak confidently, smile, maintain a formal demeanor and put your points across with clarity. Finally, you should keep in mind that your conduct is evaluated all through your stay in the premises. Therefore, be polite to everybody in the office and not just to the interviewers. After the interview is over, etiquette says that you should send a handwritten thank you note to the interviewers.

Things that should never be done

Never arrive late for an interview. After you arrive, compose yourself because it is not a good etiquette to gasp and take steadying breathes in the interview room. You should also take care not to let your attention wander. Yawning and burping are completely taboo. Also take care that you do not have to excuse yourself during the interview for any reason whatsoever. Clear all interruptions before entering the room. Do not let your cell phone ring during the interview. Put it off instead so that you are not distracted. Never wear a depressed expression, even if you feel that the interview is not going very well. Do not take a lot of time to answer questions and do not speak for too long when answering. Answers have to be crisp and to the point.

Interview Etiquette – What Should and Should Not Be Done