@360JobInterview.Com blog

While preparing for your interview, you run over your answers to the standard questions, check to make sure all of your paperwork is intact, look in the mirror to ensure a presentable image, and make sure you leave yourself enough time to arrive 10 minutes early. What you don’t realize, however, is that this preparation isn’t covering the most important part of the interview: you. Not the “you” that is represented by the above factors, but the you that comes natural and subconsciously. The following are six unconscious mistakes you can make to ruin your chance of getting hired.

Conserving Space

The use of space is one way we make a statement about our confidence and sense of entitlement. The more space you take up (i.e. your choice of seat, where you place your items, your hands), the more confident you appear.

Disregarding Success

Don’t downplay your success or attribute it to something other than talent, hard work, or know-how. Avoid using the following phrases “I just…” or “It was only…”

Inconsistent Gestures

Gestures should complement, not detract from, your message. Allow your gestures to flow naturally from your spoken message and your energy. Be aware of when you wring your hands, bite your nails, tap your fingers, or shake your leg – and stop.

Smiling

Consciously match your facial expression to your message. You do want there to be congruence between your body language and your message. Be discriminating about how and when you choose to smile.

Not Answering the Question

The inability to answer a question directly and succinctly can stem from the desire to have the perfect answer. It’s better to be direct than to sound indecisive or languid.  Directly answer the question you’re asked.

Tone of Voice

The volume of our voices is one more way in which we can manage others’ impressions of us. When we speak softly, the message conveyed is uncertain and lacking confidence. Volume also impacts body language, and the louder you speak, the more gestures you’ll use. Combine appropriate levels of each to convey a sense of authority and expertise.

The best way to overcome and prevent any of the unconscious mistakes you may be making during an interview is practice. Good practice comes from good coaching, and for good coaching, check out 360 Job Interview coaching. When you work with one of 300+ Interview Coaches from 55+ fields, you get personalized interview coaching 24/7 that will prepare you to go into your next interview ready to get noticed and get hired!