Make a Good Impression: How to Practise Etiquette in Job Interviews

Make a Good Impression: How to Practise Etiquette in Job Interviews
Jobstreet content teamupdated on 30 May, 2022
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As they say, first impressions are everything. So, it is not surprising that many jobseekers feel daunted by the idea of showing up at a job interview. There are a lot of factors to think about when preparing for a job interview. You might feel the need to look your best and provide the right answers to every question an interviewer throws at you. But, one crucial thing you may not have considered yet is brushing up on your job interview etiquette.

What is job interview etiquette?

Etiquette is a set of socially accepted good behaviour that aligns with expected social and cultural norms, especially in a public setting. Practising good etiquette puts you in a favourable position. It can also help you avoid making a bad impression.

In this instance, job interview etiquette is a list of polite practices to be observed when being interviewed for a potential new role. Not practising etiquette for job interviews may make you come across as awkward, sloppy, or even rude.

Why is etiquette important in a job interview?

Job interviews serve many purposes in the hiring process. It allows interviewers to know more about your work ethic and professional background beyond what is written on paper in your CV or resume. It is also a chance for hiring managers to see whether you would make an excellent cultural fit in the company.

Good job interview etiquette helps you make a striking first impression on the hiring manager. It breaks the ice and ensures that the interview will go smoothly. Practising good etiquette also allows hirers to feel more at ease and makes it easier for you to establish rapport with one another.

Different countries have their own rules of engagement and etiquette to follow — and in case you are interested in knowing the various customs around Asia, we have prepared an infographic for you to read up:

Getting ready for a job interview soon? Refresh your memory and practise the following tips for job interview etiquette.

Impress the hirer: Etiquette for job interviews in Malaysia

Being fully prepared for the interview is the most respectful thing you can do for your interviewer, who has set aside time to meet with you. Being fully prepared also helps you dispel nerves as you can readily anticipate what the hiring manager may ask you.

How do you prepare for a job interview? Here are a few tips.

1. Research about the role and the company

Find out as much as you can about the role and the company, and familiarise yourself with the latter’s values and goals. The hiring manager will know that you have done your homework and will definitely appreciate it, helping you create a positive first impression.

You can also think about your own set of insightful questions to ask the interviewer once they ask, “Do you have any questions for me?” This shows that you have thought well and hard about the prospect of working in their organisation and proves that you are eager to learn more about their company culture.

2. Arrive on time

Punctuality shows that you have fully prepared for this day. Every jobseeker is expected to be on time for business-related affairs. If you come on time for your job interview, you establish reliability and sincerity for the job; and in a country with a hierarchical business culture like Malaysia, punctuality also shows that you respect the interviewer.

3. Use proper greetings

As Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, certain customs about physical touch may or may not be appropriate. Unless you are sure that the interviewer is comfortable, refrain from initiating a handshake. Instead, you may want to bow slightly with your hand over your heart as a sign of respect. That said, it is also good to wait and see how you will be greeted before you respond.

Also, remember to address the interviewer with their appropriate titles (e.g., Mr., Miss, Mrs., Dr.) unless they tell you otherwise.

Finally, remember to use both hands to receive and offer business cards. When the interviewer provides you with a business card or any other type of document, carefully browse through it before putting it away.

4. Introduce yourself in a brief yet distinct way

When the hiring manager asks you,“Could you tell me more about yourself?”you need to know the answer to this immediately and by heart. The introduction is an opportunity to sell yourself as a candidate in a nutshell. Rather than rambling about your entire work experience and hobbies (both of which the hirer can read from your resume), it is important to cover the following information in your short introduction:

  • Who you are;
  • What you do and your experiences thus far; and,
  • What qualities make you a perfect fit for the role.

Here is an example:

Good morning/afternoon. I am (name), and I graduated with a degree in (degree programme) from (university). While I am applying for my first job, I have already experienced relevant work. I worked extensively in my university’s organisation as a (position), and I secured a competitive internship spot at (company). I bring my enthusiasm, eagerness to learn, and initiative to this role.

Having a succinct and straightforward introduction can show the hiring manager that you know what you are talking about. They will appreciate the brief and easy-to-follow points that you mentioned.

5. Make eye contact and smile

Malaysians are known for being polite with a sunny disposition, so it is normal and even expected to be smiling while having a conversation, especially with the hiring manager.

Ensure that you are making eye contact and giving a friendly smile to the interviewer. Talking to the hiring manager directly shows that you are genuine, open, and sincere. Avoiding eye contact may also make you seem aloof or rude.

If you feel nervous during the job interview, calm your nerves by smiling at the hiring manager. This shows that you are happy to be at the job interview and helps further encourage friendly interaction.

6. Wear the proper attire

You do not have to be a fashion expert to look presentable on the day of your interview. However, being well-dressed is part of proper job interview etiquette. You must know the dress code that they expect you to wear on the day. Some hiring managers will specify the dress code, such as, “Come in business casual attire.”

If the interviewer did not explicitly mention the dress code, make an effort to learn more about the company culture based on your research. Are you interviewing for a traditional company such as a financial firm? Are you trying to get hired in a more creative industry? By identifying the company culture, you will have an easier time deciding what style of dress to wear.

Whether you are going for a traditional or non-traditional company, there are some basic guidelines. As Malaysia is relatively conservative, it would be wise to dress on the more modest side. Cover your shoulders, knees, and chest. Be cautious about wearing distressed clothes, like ripped jeans. It would also be best to avoid overly casual footwear, such as flip-flops or open-toed sandals.

As for your bag or portfolio, choose one where you can quickly stow away or take out your things while neatly containing your items to avoid coming off as unorganised.

7. Be mindful of your body language

Your body language must exude confidence and politeness from entering the building. Having good posture helps project self-esteem and a professional air instead of being slouched over. Also, be careful of body language, such as placing your hands on your hips if you are standing up. This may be misinterpreted as being angry or irritated.

Come in neat, organised, calm and collected. Appearing frenzied may not exactly strike the best impression with your interviewer.

Stay calm yet relaxed while maintaining your posture. Learn how to respect others within a public space. Acts such as having your bag or belongings spread across chairs, spreading your legs, or resting your feet can be unprofessional.

8. Practise your tone and facial expressions

Before the interview, practise speaking in a calm but confident manner. You must never raise your voice in front of the hiring manager, especially if they are older than you, as you may be tagged as having akasarattitude.

Also, be mindful of how your expressions come across during the interview. You want to be seen as warm and open, but being too expressive or candid may make you appear too strong or a bit disrespectful as you and the hirer are likely meeting for the first time.

When being interviewed over a meal, practise table manners

You may be asked to share a meal with a boss or a manager in charge of hiring. Apply the basics of table manners here to create a positive perception.

If your meal arrives first, do not touch your food until the others have also received their orders. This applies especially if the boss has not gotten their food yet.

If you are dining at a place with a complex table setting, place the table napkin on your lap, not tucked in your collar. Use the outermost utensils for the first course, slowly working your way into the inner utensils upon every course.

It may be hard to speak if the manager asks you questions while eating. Take small bites instead of large ones, and never talk with your mouth full.

If the manager asks you for a drink, err on the side of caution and avoid drinking alcoholic beverages over an interview. If the interviewer orders an alcoholic drink, use your best judgment. You can always order juice, coffee, or tea at the end of the day.

Send a thank-you note after the interview

Many hiring managers do not expect candidates to thank them after the interview is over. Thus, this is an opportunity to stand out by sending a thank-you card or email after your job interview.

A thank-you note is good etiquette. It shows the interviewer your sincerity and leaves a lasting impression. Even if you are passed over for someone else, this gesture could potentially open up more opportunities for you in the future.

Ready to ace that job interview? Polish your interview skills with JobStreet’s Interview Practice Tool. Then, #LetsGetToWork ! Log in on JobStreet to update your profile and download the JobStreet app in the Play Store and the App Store. For more expert advice on getting hired for the role you want, visit Career Resources Hub.

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