How to master the subtle art of the professional handshake and first impression
In short: An interview is more than a conversation; it is a performance of preparation. From the precision of your attire to the mechanics of your greeting, small, deliberate actions can signal confidence and respect before you even answer your first question.
Success in an interview begins long before you enter the room. According to Fay Demoychant of Social Skills, your attire should reflect the industry's culture while remaining one step more formal than the company's standard. For instance, a financial institution requires a more 'buttoned up' approach than a music organization. Regardless of the setting, the goal is to avoid distractions: skip bold colors, heavy fragrances, or excessive jewelry. Most importantly, ensure your clothing is comfortable; if an outfit is too tight or ill-fitting, that discomfort will likely become visible to your interviewer.
The mechanics of the greeting are equally critical. To project confidence, you should be the one to initiate the handshake, ensuring your hand's web touches the interviewer's web while maintaining steady eye contact. When introducing yourself, state both your first and last name. Preparation should extend to the people you meet; research your interviewers in advance to ensure you can pronounce their names correctly and avoid any awkwardness during the introduction.
Logistics and follow-up are the final pillars of etiquette. Aim to arrive approximately ten minutes early—neither too early nor late—and consider visiting the location in advance to prevent navigation errors. During the meeting, prepare specific questions to demonstrate engagement and proof of your research. Finally, the process concludes with gratitude. Sending a thank-you note via email or physical mail immediately or a few hours after the meeting is a powerful way to stand out and express appreciation for the interviewer's time.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Job Interview Etiquette | Good Manners
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/society-job-interview-etiquette-good-manners.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Society · Latest · A–Z · All topics
