Poor handshake:
The three-second handshake that starts the interview is your first opportunity to create a great impression. But all too often an interview is blown right from the start by an ineffective handshake. Once you’ve delivered a poor handshake, it’s nearly impossible to recover your efforts to build rapport. Even if you’re a seasoned professional, don’t assume you have avoided these pitfalls. Your handshake may be telling more about you than you know. Ask for honest critiques from several friends who aren’t afraid to tell you the truth.
Talking negatively about current or past employers/managers:
The fastest way to talk yourself out of a new job is to say negative things. Even if your last boss was Attila the Hun, never, never state your ill feelings about him/her. No matter how reasonable your complaints, you will come out the loser if you show that you disrespect your boss because the interviewer will assume that you would similarly trash him or her. When faced with the challenge of talking about former employers, make sure you are prepared with a positive spin on your experiences.
Not enough/too much eye contact:
Either situation can create a negative effect. Avoid eye contact and you’ll seem shifty, untruthful, or disinterested; offer too much eye contact, and you’ll wear the interviewer out. If you sometimes have trouble with eye-contact balance, work this issue out ahead of time in an interview practice session with a friend.
Failure to match communication styles: It’s almost impossible to make a good first impression if you can’t communicate effectively with an interviewer. But you can easily change that situation by mirroring the way the interviewer treats you.
For instance:
If the interviewer seems all business, don’t attempt to loosen him/her up with a joke or story. If the interviewer is personable, try discussing his/her interests. Often the items on display in the office can offer a clue. If asked a direct question, answer directly. Then follow up by asking if more information is needed. Allowing the interviewer to set the tone of conversation can vastly improve your chances of making a favorable impression. You can put the interviewer at ease — and make yourself seem more like him or her — by mirroring his or her communication style.
Final Thoughts:
Just as a strong resume wins you an opportunity to interview, strong interview skills will win you consideration for the job. You already know that you won’t earn an interview unless your resume sets you apart as a candidate of choice. Similarly, you should know that polishing your interview skills can mean the difference between getting the job offer — and being a runner-up.
