The tone of a job interview varies with each potential employer, but when you're facing a tough interview with an unprofessional or harsh interviewer, it may be a challenge to keep your cool. Employ interview strategies that help you to stand out above the rest, stay calm and impress difficult interviewers.
Job candidates should always prepare for the worst and plan for the unexpected. Assume that every interview is going to be a challenge, and work on your communication skills to start conversations when the mood in the room is tense. You can turn around a tough interview in seconds if you arm yourself with research about the company, the interviewer and the company's culture. Prepare questions that focus on the company's success or the interviewer's contributions to the firm that have improved productivity and profitability. Genuine compliments toward the interviewer or the company can soften the tone of a tough interview and leave a lasting impression with even the most harsh critics of job candidates.
A tough interview can increase the effects of anxiety and nervousness. Avoid giving into the nervous jitters. When job candidates are overly nervous or anxious during an interview, they may lose the confident edge that they need, explains Jacquelyn Smith of Forbes. Employers are seeking people who can confidently articulate their skills and experiences without allowing intimidation or pressure to derail their thoughts. Push back the negative aspects of the environment, and then smile and focus on the positive aspects of working for the company.
Maintaining positive composure during a tough interview can set you apart from other candidates. Many employers use interview strategies that attempt to derail or destabilize candidates to determine if they can handle the pressure of working in a fast-paced or deadline-oriented environment. Even though the interviewer may not smile at you, provide nonverbal feedback or respond to your questions, it is important to maintain a professional demeanor, even if you are offended or irritated. Pay close attention to your body language. Avoid rolling your eyes, sighing, or showing anger or displeasure through facial expressions. Instead, keep your body language positive to show that you can handle the pressure-filled situation with poise.
If you are faced with vague or odd interview questions that don't seem aligned with the position, make the most of the situation by steering the discussion toward achievements, experience and skills. Show the interviewer that you can remain professional by diverting unrelated questions about your personal life to your professional experience.
A tough interview is bound to happen periodically as candidates interview for a variety of companies. Use the experience as a learning opportunity to improve your verbal and nonverbal language skills, and you may just land the job.
Photo Courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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