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Interview Chatter

My Comments - Denise Grier’s Tips Part 3

by Darlene McDaniel on April 27th, 2007

Here is Part 3 of  my thoughts on Denise Grier’s article, Five Steps to A Successful Interview!

Lessons Learned from Five Steps to A Successful Interview!  

3. Make Eye Contact and Offer a Firm Handshake

Eye Contact 

Here is what you communicate to the interviewer with good eye contact:

Rapport, trustworthiness, confidence,

Too much eye contact can become difficult for the interviewer so practice averting your eyes without appearing that you are distracted. The interviewer will usually look away if they are taking notes or are looking at a formal list of questions. Those are great times to rest your eyes, though you don’t want to get distracted by looking out the window. Usually I look where they are looking, at the paper or the desk. That helps you know when the interviewer is ready to look at you again.  Poor eye contact communicates that you are not trustworthy and gives the appearance that you have something to hide and/or that you are nervous. Preparation will help you overcome the nerves. If you have nothing to hide, and you are trustworthy, than you have to get past whatever is going inside of you that makes it difficult for you to look someone in eye.

           handshakes1.jpg

The Handshake 

A handshake is a simple gesture. Make sure you firmly shake the person’s hand and look them straight in the eye. It is simple and will ensure you to make a great first impression. Practice makes perfect.

A good handshake demonstrates confidence and strength

Here are some examples of poor handshakes:

The Soft or Limp Hand: Gives the impression of disinterest or weakness  

The Wet Hand: Communicates nervousness

The Tips of the Fingers: Shows lack of ability to engage

The Arm Pump: Sincerity is questionable

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. Practice shaking hands with different people so that you know how you respond to different types of people. It is your responsibility to strenghten yourself in these areas. Getting the job is all about making good impressions throughout the process. Everything counts when you are being evaluated by the hiring manager and their team. If you have difficulty with eye contact or giving a strong handshake, find a friend and practice until you get it!

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POSTED IN: Coach's Cornor, The Interview

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