Nonverbal Mistakes that could Cost You the Job
So you got past your recruiter, you’ve had an initial phone interview with the hiring manager and now you’re meeting face-to-face. You’ve done your homework – you know the company, their mission, the hiring manager’s background, the scope of the position and you’re ready to tell them how you can make a difference! But are you ready to SHOW them??
Nonverbal communication and body language is just as important as the words you say. The following are common nonverbal mistakes that could cost you the offer:
- Leave the Drakkar at Home. I interviewed a guy last week who wore the strongest, and frankly most repulsive, cologne. I could not wait to get out of our meeting and get away from the smell! Gentleman, no need to wear cologne and ladies, leave the perfume and Bath & Bodies scented lotion at home. Nowadays so many people are allergic and put off by strong scents, don’t take the chance.
- Don’t twirl your hair. We get it, you’re nervous. You don’t know what to do with your hands. But the fidgeting is distracting to the folks interviewing you. It can also make you look bored and unintelligent. Instead, how about jotting down some notes? (Make sure you ask the interviewer first so it doesn’t look like you’re avoiding eye contact).
- Dress to Impress. When you’re on an interview, you must dress the part. Web designers, you may be interviewing with a company where everyone’s in jeans and chucks, but you don’t have the job yet. For the interview, sport the suite. Play it safe – wear a more conservative tie. Ladies, no need for the chandelier earrings or fluorescent-orange nail polish. It’s distracting. (Bosses have actually said that clothes could be a deciding factor in two similar candidates.)
- Show those Pearly Whites. It sounds silly, but don’t forget to smile and make eye contact. It shows interest, engagement and passion.
- Sit Up Straight! Sitting up straight and even leaning forward shows them that you’re interested and engaged. Do not cross your arms over your chest – it shows boredom. And don’t lean back. The interview may be going great – they’re making you feel comfortable, the conversation is flowing and you’re crushing all their questions. Doesn’t matter – they’re still interviewing you and you want to remain professional the entire time.
Remember, nonverbal impressions start the second you walk through the door and greet the receptionist at the front desk, so keep these couple of key tips in mind the minute you walk out of your car and into their office.
Author Name – Meryl Ratzman
Title – Account Manager
Location – Baltimore, MD
Twitter – @merylratzman
Byline – Meryl has been recruiting for a year with Profiles and has 8+ years in the marketing and creative space. When she’s not recruiting and networking with interactive peeps, she’s eating gummy candy, listening to new indie rock bands or watching bad reality TV.
