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Staying professional in a job interview may seem like an easy enough task, but do job seekers really know what that looks like to recruiters nowadays?
Only about 20% of applicants make it to the interview round in the application process, according to training and learning platform Simplilearn, which means that it's important to make the time in front of recruiters count.
1. Dress to the company's culture
Dressing effectively is a simple approach to demonstrate to an employer that you are enthusiastic about obtaining this position. Very much depends on initial perceptions. However, while it is true that most employers are cognizant of the fact that a competent employee's demeanour does not necessarily equate to one who is undoubtedly unprofessional, it is still advisable for applicants to demonstrate interest in the position and an effort to appear professional.
In addition to facilitating the expression of one's individuality in the workplace, diversity and inclusion policies emphasise the significance of demonstrating concern for one's role. A positively impactful approach to begin is through one's attire and overall appearance. Regardless of the apparent workplace culture, it is not advisable to arrive for a job interview with attire that is excessively casual. Dress one notch higher than the company's dress requirement if you are truly uncertain but still wish to appear diligent. Still preferable to being underdressed is somewhat overdressed.
2. Keep your social media profiles clean
You will be alright so long as you refrain from engaging in any unlawful or grossly inappropriate activities on social media. Culture fit is an important consideration for some companies; therefore, exercise caution when discussing political beliefs and refrain from criticising other employers or individuals on the Internet. In the end, companies are looking for candidates who are a good match for the position and can commit to it permanently; therefore, having a multitude of red flags on your social media platforms, such as lengthy, politically heated ramblings or hate speech, is not a good look.
3. Make sure conversation is respectful
Applicants should strive to maintain appropriate tone and body language throughout the interview. In addition to the expected firm handshake, refrain from fidgeting or mucking with objects, as well as from sounding unprepared or lacking confidence. Preparation is crucial in this regard, as video calls can make it difficult to determine whether or not a someone has excellent body language and is a good communicator. Demonstrating professionalism through appropriate body language includes maintaining eye contact with the interviewer while speaking, actively listening, and demonstrating proficiency in interpreting social cues such as appropriate nodding and smiling.
Additionally, I advise candidates to pause and reflect on the subject at hand before to hastening to provide a solution. Employers recognise that this can be a nerve-wracking experience; so, be forgiving of yourself and invest some time in providing thoughtful responses, rather than simply uttering words.
4. Stay authentic
Hearing stories of how applicants have overcome adversity can be profoundly insightful. Nonetheless, candidates must establish a direct correlation between these experiences and the job description, showcasing how they have grown more capable and resilient as a result. Hiring managers place significant significance on personal narratives that demonstrate alignment with the values and objectives of the organisation. It is acceptable to reveal part of your personality and discuss your hobbies. Applicants must to elaborate not only on the process of surmounting obstacles, but also on how these encounters have fortified them with distinct capabilities and outlooks that can make a constructive contribution to the organization's objectives and ethos. And in terms of language, profanity and excessive slang usage should be avoided, even if the organisation appears to be an environment where one is free to express oneself freely.
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