Recent graduates face monumental challenge of landing their first jobs considering there are thousands of past graduates still hunting for jobs. Recent reports indicate that significant companies are downsizing or closing shop altogether due to hard economic times thus complicating the job search situation for most graduates. Even so, there are several job openings coming up each day and as Roman philosopher, Seneca, once said, “luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity”. Landing your first job requires more than just a great resume, it demands strong interview etiquette. At this stage, you have outsmarted an application tracking system and caught the attention of the hiring manager. So how can you continue distinguishing yourself? Understanding and applying key professional behaviors can make a lasting impression as recent graduate.
In this article, we highlight the 9 etiquette rules that if applied will help candidates ace interviews and leave a professional impression.
- Punctuality is Key
Arriving 10–15 minutes early demonstrates responsibility and respect for the interviewer’s time. If you are doing virtual interview then log in early to check for any technical issues before time.
- Dress Code
When preparing for an interview, wearing the right dress code can help you feel confident, comfortable and professional. Dressing appropriately can help you make a strong first impression thus understanding how to dress can help you demonstrate your professionalism and preparedness. In certain circumstances, it will be good to research about the company’s dress code to learn about their expectations. In addition check your dressing to ensure it matches the weather and season. When in doubt, opt for business casual or professional attire to ensure you look polished.
- Research the Company
Research about their core business, products/services, any recent news in the media, organization culture, their position in the industry, leadership team and potential questions you can ask them during the interview. This allows you to tailor your responses and show genuine interest in the organization.
- Master Your Non-Verbal Cues
Your non verbal cues can make or break for you during interviews. Mastering non verbal cues can be a game changer in job interviews. Maintain great eye contact, offer a firm handshake, sit up straight to exude confidence, convey confidence with presence, smile and show enthusiasm, embrace thoughtful pauses, and bring notepad to balance dynamics.
- Practice Active Listening
Active listening means being a full participant in your interactions with another person and using verbal and non verbal cues to both take in and convey information. Active listening conveys your genuine interest in the position, and also allows you to pick up clues about the company culture that will guide you to establish whether the position is fit for you. Some tips include, engaging with the interviewer by nodding, smiling, and responding thoughtfully, not interrupting, and ensuring your answers align with the questions asked.
- Be Clear and Concise
Structure your responses using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to keep them clear, focused, and impactful.
- Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare at least three questions that will help you make a lasting impression at the interview. Some candidates think that by not asking any questions, they are projecting a polite and ‘good’ candidacy. Far from it. On the contrary, it shows lack of interest, lack of analytic mind, or lack of preparedness. It is important to prepare to ask relevant questions during the interview as this signals enthusiasm and helps you assess if the job is the right fit for you.
- Show Gratitude
At the end of the interview, it is worth conveying your gratitude for the opportunity to engage. Alternatively, you can send a follow-up thank-you email within 24 hours, expressing appreciation for the opportunity and reiterating your availability and interest in the job.
- Maintain Professionalism Post-Interview
If you don’t hear back within the time frame they indicated, follow up politely. Regardless of the outcome, remain professional and open to feedback.
By following these etiquette rules, recent graduates can boost their confidence and stand out in this competitive job market.
How Edge Point Solutions Can Help
At Edge Point Solutions, we offer mock interviews – a great way to prepare for the real thing. A mock interview helps you learn how to answer difficult questions, develop interview strategies, improve your communication skills, and reduce your stress before an actual job interview. Contact us to learn how we can guide you to success and boost your career confidence.
Article By: Pauline Adhiambo, Business Development Associate
Editor: Kenneth Otieno, Head of Business Development
2 comments
Goodwork
Brenda, thank you so much.