Even More Behaviors for a Successful Job Search

In this economy and with many people to choose from, it can be a close call between finalists in awarding the job. Sometimes the final decision on selecting one candidate versus another can sometimes be based upon relatively minor points. One person was a little better and it made the difference between who got the job. Following are some more behaviors that are time-tested and can give you the edge in successfully winning the job search game.

There is value in the details. These days especially, hiring managers are often incredibly busy, which makes for short interviews. Therefore additional importance is placed on maximizing the time available and requires a focus on the more subtle points of the interview, such as giving a firm handshake, maintaining eye contact and practicing good posture. Your nonverbal cues can say a lot about your personality and interest in the position. Seemingly small behaviors can send un-intended messages. Things like body language are important. Examples of body language to avoid include:

• Crossed arms. People with crossed arms are frequently interpreted as being closed, uninterested, and sends the message that you are keeping someone at bay.
• Too animated, over-reacting, exaggerated actions (e.g., nodding hurriedly, arm waving outside the “TV box). People exhibiting such behaviors are interpreted as being insincere and unprofessional.
• Overly tense facial expressions. Telegraphs that you are nervous, potentially control-oriented, or angry.

Nervous is normal. It is normal to be nervous, and some tension is to be expected. Resist the temptation to beat yourself up over past interview mistakes. Also do not keep reminding yourself how important this interview is. Successful candidates have mastered the ability to drive such thoughts aside and are able to focus on the task at hand.

Beware of the small talk. Small talk plays an important role in the interview by helping to break the ice and put both parties at ease. But be careful: it is easy to make costly mistakes during the informal periods like walking between interviews or at lunch when your guard is down. Strive for a happy medium in your comments. Tell yourself that everything you say and do from when you walk through the front door to leaving the parking lot is potentially part of the interview. Saying too little at lunch when between interviews can make you seem aloof or afraid. Saying too much can alienate, and cause you to come across as obnoxious or worse. If the hiring manager asks whether traffic was heavy or if you had problems with the directions they provided, feel free to offer more than just a "yes" or "no" answer, but be sure not to complain and chatter needlessly. Truth is it does not really matter so just go with the flow.

It should go without saying that this probably is not the time to ask for a date with the administrative assistant who first greeted you. Social interactions must be friendly and professional… period.