MODULE 3

INTERVIEW ETIQUETTES
WHAT EMPLOYERS ARE LOOKING FOR?
• Job seekers typically go to job interviews expecting the
employer to be focused on their experience, education
and skills.
• Below are the qualities that employers generally look for
in an interview through observing your demeanor,
personality and attitude as well as processing your
answers to their questions.
• Understand the company and what it does - This will be
a very important factor to the employer. Make sure to
research the company as part of your job interview
preparation. You want to show the employer that you
have a real interest in working for them and are not just
looking to get a job.
• Come prepared to be interviewed - Learn the types of
questions that are generally posed in job interviews and
think about what specific questions the interviewer
might ask you. You want to show the interviewer that
you are fully prepared by having your answers already
thought out and ready to be delivered (without
sounding rehearsed).
• Listen and answer questions thoroughly - It’s easy to
find yourself thinking ahead in an interview, but the
interviewer may be able to tell you are not listening or
fully engaged. Try to stay in the moment and really listen
to the interviewer’s questions and what they are saying.
Don’t divert the interviewer from a question you are not
comfortable answering; just do your best to answer it.
• Possess career goals and direction - Know your career
"roadmap" and be able to describe the path you‘ve
taken to where you are now and where you hope that
path will lead.
• Understand your strengths - Know what you are really
best at.
• Know what accomplishments you’ve made on the job
or in your personal life - You want to be able to share
stories about the successes you’ve had, whether they
were in previous jobs, in school/college, or in your
personal life.
• Convey your soft skills - Employers want to see you
have those personal attributes that will add to your
effectiveness as an employee, such as the ability to work
in a team, problem-solving skills, and being dependable,
organized, proactive, flexible, and resourceful.
• Be open to learning new things - Hiring managers like
to know that you won't be resistant to change in the
way you may have done things before, such as using a
new technical tool, software application or process.
They also want to see that you proactively explore
what’s new in the industry and are always trying to
learn new things.
• Demonstrate leadership abilities - Show that you have
the ability to take charge by mentioning situations in
which you have taken the initiative, volunteered for an
assignment, assumed responsibility for achieving goals
or results, led a group or team of people.
• Be likeable - Obviously, you want to present your best
self in the interview by being polite and not doing
things like interrupting the interviewer or being
sarcastic. Employers want to see that you are warm,
friendly, easygoing and cooperative with others. You
want to show that you are the right fit and have the
right attitude for both the job and the company.
• Display confidence about who you are and what you
bring to the table - The interviewer will expect you to
be nervous, but based on your demeanor and your
responses to their questions, they will still want to see
that you are confident. If you believe in yourself and
your ability to do the job, then the interviewer will as
well.
• Be aware of your body language - Sit up straight but try
to relax. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer, avoid
fidgeting and don’t forget to smile! Of course, it goes
without saying that you should make sure your overall
physical appearance is neat, clean and appropriately
attired based on the job and the company.
 TYPES OF INTERVIEWS
Formal Interview
• It is a planned and well-arranged interview. It is
conducted in a formal atmosphere in a fixed venue, time
and through a panel of interviewers. All the formalities
and procedures are followed in this type of interview.
Even questions to be asked are decided well in advance.
Informal Interview:
• It is an un-planned and un-scheduled interview and may
take place anywhere. Venue and time is not fixed.
Questions are not prepared well in advance. Whenever
staff is required, this kind of interview is conducted by
asking simple questions like name, age, qualification birth
place etc., if candidates approach employer.
Structured or Patterned Interview
• It is a fully planned interview and questions to be asked are
already structured well in advance on the basis of an
analysis of job specification. The time to be allowed to each
candidate and the information to be collected is also
predefined. Thus, a standardized pattern is adopted to
conduct the interview.
Un-Structured or Non-Directed Interview:
• It is an un-planned and un­structured interview where
questions to be asked, time to be allowed and response to
be collected are not thought in advance. Broad general
questions are asked to the candidate and candidate is
allowed to speak his mind freely without any restrictions.
Therefore, better assessment of candidate becomes
possible.
Stress Interview:
• It is a deliberate attempt to create tension and pressure
to observe how an applicant responds under stress.
Interviewer puts the candidate by putting him under
stress by interrupting the applicant from answering,
criticizing his opinion, asking questions in rapid
succession and keeping silent for unduly long period of
time etc. This kind of interview is conducted just to find
out how a candidate behaves in stressful situation.
Group Interview:
• In this type of interview, group of individuals are
interviewed. For this purpose, a problem is given to a
group of candidates for discussion. The candidates are
carefully observed as to who will lead the group, who is
active and who is inactive, who will dominate and who
will keep silence. Actions and reactions of the members
in the group are also observed and potential candidate
is selected.
Depth Interview:
• Depth interview is conducted to test the candidates in
depth knowledge in a special area of interest and to get true
picture of the candidate in such area or subject. Experts in
the concerned area of subject ask the question to test the
candidate’s capacity in the concerned subject. Thus,
candidate is examined thoroughly before he is selected for a
particular post.
Panel or Board Interview:
• It is an interview conducted by a panel or group of
interviewers. Panel of experts interview each candidate,
judge each candidates performance and prepare the list of
candidate in order of merit. Here group judgment is
involved in the selection of candidates as it seeks to pool
the collective judgment of several interviewers.
Exit Interview:
• Exit interview is conducted for those who leave or quit the
organization. The main purpose of conducting this interview is
to know the feelings of the outgoing employees towards
organization, fellow workers, policy and rules of the organization
and also to know the reason for quitting the job so that any
defect associated with the organization can be rectified.
Walk-in-lnterview:
• Recently many companies have started to hold walk-in-
interview. Here candidates are to appear for interview directly
without sending their application in advance. At the time of
interview candidates are asked to submit application and
testimonials in support of their qualification. Questions are
asked in the area of candidate’s specialization in accordance
with job requirement.
 TIPS TO PREPARE FOR AN INTERVIEW
Carefully examine the job description
• The job description is a list of the qualifications, qualities
and background the employer is looking for in an ideal
candidate.
• The more you can align yourself with these details, the
more the employer will be able to see that you are
qualified.
• The job description may also give you ideas about
questions the employer may ask throughout the
interview.
Consider why you are interviewing and your
qualifications
• Before your interview, you should have a good understanding
of why you want the job and why you’re qualified.
• You should be prepared to explain your interest in the
opportunity and why you’re the best person for the role.
Perform research on the company and role
• Researching the company you’re applying to is an important
part of preparing for an interview. Not only will it help
provide context for your interview conversations, but it will
also help you when preparing thoughtful questions for your
interviewers. It's important to read the job description
carefully and make sure that you understand all the
requirements and responsibilities that go along with it. 
Consider your answers to common interview
questions
• While you won’t be able to predict every question you’ll
be asked in an interview, there are a few common
questions you can plan answers for.
• There are some jobs that may involve a test or
evaluation during the interview process. It might be
helpful to consult with colleagues in the industry for
examples of tests they’ve been given to prepare.
• Here are a few examples of common interview
questions: Why do you want to work here?, What
interests you about this role?, What are your greatest
strengths?
Practice your speaking voice and body language
• It’s important to make a positive and lasting impression
during the interview process.
• You can do this by practicing a confident, strong
speaking voice and friendly, open body language.
• While these might come naturally to you, you might also
want to spend time performing them with trusted
friends or family or in front of a mirror.
Prepare several thoughtful questions for the
interviewer(s)
• Many employers feel confident about candidates who ask
thoughtful questions about the company and the position.
• You should take time before the interview to prepare several
questions for your interviewer(s) that show you’ve
researched the company and are well-versed about the
position. Some examples of questions you could ask include:
• What does a typical day look like for a person in this position?
• Why do you enjoy working here?
• What qualities do your most successful employees have?
• I’ve really enjoyed learning more about this opportunity.
What are the next steps in the hiring process?
Conduct mock interviews
• Just like public speaking, practicing interviews is the
best way to relieve anxiety and improve your
confidence. Practice may be tedious, but repeatedly
experiencing the interview process will make you more
comfortable and help you give the right impression.
• If you have friends or family to help, conduct mock
interviews as much as you can. You may find that an
answer sounds awkward or doesn't convey what you
wish when it's spoken, so this gives you an opportunity
to refine your answers and commit them to memory.
Print hard copies of your resume
• Most employers ask for digital copies of your resume with the
application, but they may not have easy access to it during the
interview itself. Having copies to present to multiple
interviewers shows that you're prepared and organized.
• During your preparation, read over your resume and rehearse
explanations for any gaps that may appear.
• For example, you may have taken time off work to care for a
child or family member, switched careers or had other
legitimate reasons for employment gaps. These can be a
concern for employers, so it's best to prepare your
explanation to show them that you're not a risk.
• You may also encounter questions about your resume that are
awkward. It's important to be honest but diplomatic in
addressing them.
Prepare your travel arrangements
• Job interviews tend to be stressful for most people for
many reasons, but getting to the interview can be a
challenge in itself. If your interview is an unfamiliar area
or even an entirely new city, it can be a source of
anxiety to find your way around and make sure that you
show up on time.
• To avoid becoming too anxious for your commute,
prepare yourself to ensure everything goes smoothly on
the day of the meeting. Here's how: Leave early, Save
the interview contact information and Search the
location in advance.
Sell yourself
• One of the biggest challenges in an interview is selling
yourself. Most people are uncomfortable with this idea, but
presenting yourself accurately and positively doesn't have
to feel like a sale.
• When you prepare for a job interview, make note of your
skills that relate to the role and think of how your
experiences and abilities can contribute to the overall goals
of the department and company.
• Whatever accomplishments you have, don't be modest
about sharing them during your interview. Your potential
employer wants to know that you'll be the right fit and that
you can deliver something to the company, so they need to
know all the reasons that you can provide that for them.
Get ready to follow up after the interview
• After your interview, you should prepare to follow up with the
employer. Doing so reminds the employer of your conversation,
shows them you are genuinely interested in the position and gives
you the opportunity to bring up points you forgot to mention.
• Here are a few steps you can follow when crafting a follow-up
note:
• In the first paragraph, mention the specific job title and thank
your interviewer.
• In the second paragraph, note the company’s name as well as a
conversation point and/or goal that seemed especially important
to the person you spoke with. Connect that point to your
experience and interests.
• In the final paragraph, invite them to ask you any additional
questions and close by saying you’re looking forward to hearing
back.
 INTERVIEW ATTIRE
• Before you say a single word to the interviewer, you have
already made an impression based on how you’re dressed.
• The guidelines given here are commonly accepted as
appropriate for interviewing.
Men 
• Dress in a manner that is professionally appropriate to the
position for which you are applying. In almost all cases,
this means wearing a suit.
• You should wear a suit to interviews. Suit includes a
matching jacket and pants, dress shirt, tie, coordinating
socks and dress shoes. A dark-colored suit with light
colored shirt is your best option.
• Your suit should be comfortable and fit you well so that
you look and act your best.
• Shoes should be well-polished and in good condition.
• Avoid loud colors and flashy ties.
• Clothing should be neat, clean and pressed.
• Shower or bathe the morning of the interview. Wear
deodorant but don’t smell overpowering.
• Make sure you have fresh breath. Brush your teeth before
you leave for the interview.
• Your hair should be neat, clean and conservative.
• Be sure to shave the morning of the interview, even if you
don’t ordinarily shave every day. If you have a full beard
or moustache it should be trimmed and neat-looking.
Women
• Generally, you should wear a suit with a skirt or pants. 
• Your suit should be comfortable and fit you well.
• Interview suits should be simple and dark in color.
• Anything tight, bright, short, or sheer should absolutely
be avoided.
• Knee-length skirts are suggested.
• Wear a conservative blouse (top or shirt) with your suit.
Do not wear bright colors, animal prints, or anything
sheer or low-cut.
• Make-up and nail polish should be understated; shades
that are neutral to your skin tone are generally advisable.
Avoid bright or unusual colors or very long nails.
• Keep your jewelry and hair accessories to a minimum,
and stick to those that are not flashy, distracting, or
shiny. One ring per hand is best.
• Shoes should be conservative and fairly low-heeled.
Don’t wear shoes with an open toe or back.
• Your hair should be neat, clean and conservatively
styled. The idea is to look polished and professional.
 INTERVIEW CHECKLIST
• Arrive early
• Dress and act professionally
• Bring multiple copies of your resume
• Remember paper and pen
• Take documentation from home
• Practice answering questions
• Prepare questions
• Say thank you
• Follow-up
 PREPARING FOR A TELEPHONIC INTERVIEW
• Employers use telephone interviews as a way of
identifying and recruiting candidates for employment.
• Phone interviews are often used to screen candidates to
narrow the pool of applicants who will be invited for in-
person interviews.
• Preparing for telephone interviews is as important as
preparation before any other form of interview or
meeting.
• The impression you create in the opening moments, and
the manner with which you present yourself will
determine whether or not you will be successful.
• Find out as much as you can about the company and the
job description. Do your own researches – company
websites are one of the best sources of information. Find
out about the size and structure of the company, its
products and its markets.
• Make a note of any questions you would like to ask. Ask
about things if they are important to you, especially if your
decision whether to proceed depends upon the answers.
Otherwise, ask broad questions such as ‘What training will
be given?’, ‘What opportunities are there for
advancement?’. Have these questions written down.
• Have a notepad and pen ready.
• Have your CV at hand. In all probability the hiring manager
will have a copy of it too, so you probably won’t be asked to
describe your background in detail.
• Get Ready for the Call - Before the call, confirm all the
details including the date, time, and who you will be
talking to. Be sure you know whether the interviewer is
calling you or if you need to make the call. If something
goes wrong or you miss the call, or the recruiter doesn't
call on time, don't panic. You should be able to get the
call back on track or reschedule it if necessary.
• Answer the phone yourself - First, be sure to let family
members and/or roommates know you are expecting a
call. When you answer the phone, respond with your
name, i.e. "Jane Doe", so the interviewer knows they
have reached the right person.
• Listen carefully to the interviewer and don't start
speaking until the interviewer finishes the question. If
you have something you want to say, jot it down on your
notepad and mention it when it's your turn to talk.
• Don't worry if you need a few seconds to think of a
response, but don't leave too much dead air. If you need
the interviewer to repeat the question, ask.
• As the interview winds down, make sure to say thank you
to the interviewer. Ask for the interviewer's email
address, if you don't already have it. Send out an email
thankyou note immediately, thanking the interviewer and
reiterating your interest in the job. 
 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS DURING
INTERVIEW
Tell me about yourself
• This question seems simple, so many people fail to
prepare for it, but it’s crucial. Here's the deal: Don’t
give your complete employment (or personal) history.
• Instead give a pitch—one that’s concise and
compelling and that shows exactly why you’re the
right fit for the job.
• Talk a little bit about your current role (including the
scope and perhaps one big accomplishment), then
give some background as to how you got there and
experience you have that’s relevant.
How Did You Hear About This Position?
• This is actually a perfect opportunity to stand out and
show your passion for and connection to the company.
• For example, if you found out about the opportunity
through a friend or professional contact, name drop that
person, then share why you were so excited about it.
• If you discovered the company through an article, share
that. Even if you found the listing through a random job
board, share what, specifically, caught your eye about
the role.
Why Do You Want to Work at This Company?
• If your response makes you sound like every other
candidate, you’re missing an opportunity to stand out.
• Do your research and point to something that makes
the company unique that really appeals to you; talk
about how you’ve watched the company grow and
change since you first heard of it; focus on the
organization’s opportunities for future growth and how
you can contribute to it. Whichever route you choose,
make sure to be specific.
Why Do You Want This Job?
• Again, companies want to hire people who are
passionate about the job, so you should have a great
answer about why you want the position.
• First, identify a couple of key factors that make the role
a great fit for you (e.g., “I love customer support
because I love the constant human interaction and the
satisfaction that comes from helping someone solve a
problem”), then share why you love the company (e.g.,
“I’ve always been passionate about education, and I
think you’re doing great things, so I want to be a part of
it”).
Why Should We Hire You?
• There’s no better setup for you to sell yourself and your
skills to the hiring manager.
• Your job here is to craft an answer that covers three
things: that you can not only do the work, but also
deliver great results; that you’ll really fit in with the
team and culture; and that you’d be a better hire than
any of the other candidates.
What Are Your Greatest Strengths?
• When you’re answering this question, think quality, not
quantity.
• In other words, don’t rattle off a list of adjectives.
Instead, pick one or a few specific qualities that are
relevant to this position and illustrate them with
examples.
• And if there’s something you were hoping to mention
because it makes you a great candidate, but you haven’t
had a chance yet, this would be the perfect time.
Why Are You Leaving Your Current Job?
• Definitely keep things positive—you have nothing to gain by
being negative about your current employer.
• Instead, frame things in a way that shows that you’re eager
to take on new opportunities and that the role you’re
interviewing for is a better fit for you.
Tell Me About a Challenge or Conflict You’ve Faced at Work,
and How You Dealt With It.
• You’re probably not eager to talk about conflicts you’ve had
at work during a job interview. But if you’re asked directly,
don’t pretend you’ve never had one. Be honest about a
difficult situation you’ve faced. Stay calm and professional as
you tell the story and answer any follow-up questions and
mention what you’d do differently next time to show “you’re
open to learning from tough experiences.”
How Do You Deal With Pressure or Stressful
Situations?
• Talk about your go-to strategies for dealing with stress
(whether it’s meditating for 10 minutes every day or
making sure you go for a run or keeping a super-detailed
to-do list) and how you communicate and otherwise
proactively try to mitigate pressure.
• If you can give a real example of a stressful situation you
navigated successfully, all the better.
What Do You Like to Do Outside of Work?
• Interviewers will sometimes ask about your hobbies or
interests outside of work in order to get to know you a
little better—to find out what you’re passionate about
and devote time to during your off-hours.
• It’s another chance to let your personality shine.
• Be honest, but keep it professional and be mindful of
answers that might make it sound like you’re going to
spend all your time focusing on something other than
the job you’re applying for.
 COMMON REASONS FOR APPLICANT
REJECTION
• Sloppy application - Sloppy job applications are the
fastest way to send job candidates into the “no” pile.
Spelling errors, formatting issues, 5 page resumes and
generic cover letters are all solid grounds for a rejection.
• Wrong skill set - Many job candidates have quality skills,
but their skills aren’t always the right fit for your job.
• Unsuitable personality - Beyond the right skill set, the
job candidate needs to exhibit the right personality for
the job. For example, a customer-facing job likely
requires an outgoing personality. Hiring an introvert in
this circumstance is likely a mistake.
• Bad fit - During the interview, you should ask questions
to understand the job candidate’s motivation for
applying. This is important because it helps you assess
whether the job you’re offering fits within the job
candidate’s plans. If it doesn’t and you hire the job
candidate, she/he will likely leave your job in short
order.
• Not on time - If the job candidate can’t be punctual for
the interview, how can you expect the candidate to
arrive to work on time? If the job candidate shows up
late for the interview, ask why to see if there is a
reasonable story.
• Sloppy appearance - Although it may not be the first thing
you think of, serious job candidates should know what to
wear for an interview. Sometimes a job candidate’s dress
can be inappropriate for the job. 
• Lack of passion - Part of the most effective interview
strategies for successful hiring is to pay attention to
nonverbal cues. Observing the level of passion that a
candidate puts into their interview goes a long way. If a
candidate isn’t enthusiastic during the interview, why
would they be passionate on the job? 
• Not responsive - A good job candidate is hungry for the job
and will respond to emails quickly. The wrong job
candidate, on the other hand, may be slow in their
responses or not respond at all, expressing their lack of
interest in the job.
• Weak recommendations - It’s hard to ignore negative
feedback. If a reference wouldn’t hire the job candidate
again, why should you?
• Unaffordable salary expectations - It’s possible that you
will like a job candidate, but won’t be able to afford
them. If this is the case, part ways amicably and look at
your other finalists to fill the position.
• Job shopping - Some applicants, particularly those in
certain high-tech, sales and marketing fields, will admit
they're just "shopping" for opportunities and have little
intention of changing jobs. This wastes time and leaves a
bad impression with employers they may need to
contact in the future.
 PUBLIC SPEAKING
• Public speaking is the process and act of speaking or
giving a lecture to a group of people in a structured,
deliberate manner intended to inform, influence, or
entertain a listening audience.
• Public speaking is commonly understood as face-to-
face speaking between individuals and an audience
for the purpose of communication.
• Even if you don't need to make
regular presentations  in front of a group, there are
plenty of situations where good public speaking skills
can help you advance your career and create
opportunities.
• For example, you might have to talk about your
organization at a conference, make a speech
after accepting an award, or teach a class to new
recruits. 
• Good public speaking skills are important in
other areas of your life, as well. You might be
asked to make a speech at a friend's wedding or
inspire a group of volunteers at a charity event.
• In short, being a good public speaker can
enhance your reputation, boost your self-
confidence, and open up countless
opportunities.
 PUBLIC SPEAKING ETIQUETTES
Speak hands-free
• Glancing down, relying on note cards is distracting.
• Put down your papers and speak directly to your
audience, connecting with eye contact and engaging
with a smile and strong knowledge.
• Don’t worry about getting off course.
• Complete your thoughts and incorporate the material
you missed into another segment of your speech.
Avoid sputtering off too many statistics
• One or two relevant statistics to support a comment is
acceptable.
• Share your own thoughts, experiences and insights on
the topic.

Get some rest

• When your energy level is compromised, you may
struggle to deliver a concise message.
• Make time to get enough sleep the night before an early
morning presentation.
Inject humor
• People enjoy seeing the presenter as a relatable human.
• Tell a story or a joke that you feel comfortable relaying.
• A good story captures the audience’s attention.
Encourage Q and A’s
• If someone has a question, mention they are welcome
to ask during the presentation.
• It’s a great icebreaker and sets the stage for two way
dialogue rather than a talking head in the front of the
room.
• Let the audience know they are free to give their
opinion or share a thought.
Stay mindful of the sound of your own voice
• Record yourself and listen carefully to how you sound
under pressure.
• Taping yourself will indicate if you need to practice
slowing down, speaking up, or articulating your words
more clearly.
Make sure your words mirror your facial
expressions
• If you are telling a serious story, or delivering bad news,
a wide smile will not correspond with your message.
• Practice your speech in the mirror to work out the body
language.
Understand the power in a pause
• A brief lapse of words can express thoughtful
contemplation, or emphasize a particular point.
• It can also be used to let others know you are uncertain
and thinking the answer through.
• If you are caught off guard, don’t be afraid to say “I
don’t know, but I will find out and get back to you.”
Relax and have fun
• Once you have mastered your speech, and practiced
until you are pitch perfect, trust your own ability to
deliver a message that is foolproof and inspirational.
 STRATEGIES FOR BECOMING A GOOD
SPEAKER
Nervousness Is Normal. Practice and Prepare!
• All people feel some physiological reactions like
pounding hearts and trembling hands.
• Do not associate these feelings with the sense that
you will perform poorly or make a fool of yourself.
• The best way to overcome anxiety is to prepare.
• Take the time to go over your notes several times.
• Once you have become comfortable with the
material, practice a lot.
• Videotape yourself, or get a friend to critique your
performance.
Know Your Audience
• Before you begin to craft your message, consider who the
message is intended for.
• Learn as much about your listeners as you can.
• This will help you determine your choice of words, level of
information, organization pattern, and motivational
statement.
Organize Your Material in the Most Effective Manner to
Attain Your Purpose
• Create the framework for your speech.
• Write down the topic, general purpose, specific purpose,
central idea, and main points.
• Make sure to grab the audience’s attention in the first 30
seconds.
Watch for Feedback and Adapt to It
• Keep the focus on the audience.
• Gauge their reactions, adjust your message, and stay
flexible.
• Delivering a canned speech will guarantee that you
lose the attention of or confuse even the most
devoted listeners.
Use Humor, Tell Stories and Use Effective Language
• Inject a funny anecdote in your presentation, and you will
certainly grab your audience’s attention.
• Audiences generally like a personal touch in a speech. A
story can provide that.
Don’t Read Unless You Have to
• Reading from a script or slide hinders the interpersonal
connection.
• By maintaining eye contact with the audience, you keep
the focus on yourself and your message.
• A brief outline can serve to jog your memory and keep
you on task.
Use Your Voice and Hands Effectively. Omit Nervous
Gestures.
• Non-verbal communication carries most of the message.
• Good delivery does not call attention to itself, but
instead conveys the speaker’s ideas clearly and without
distraction.
Grab Attention at the Beginning and Close with a
Dynamic End
• Do you enjoy hearing a speech starting with “Today I’m
going to talk to you about X”? Most people don’t.
• Instead, use a startling statistic, an interesting anecdote,
or concise quotation.
• Conclude your speech with a summary and a strong
statement that your audience is sure to remember.