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You know about dressing professionally, arriving on time and using your shared network to get a foot in the door. But, according to a new study, an astonishing number of interviewees don’t think twice about making these two mistakes–checking their phone during an interview and slouching in their chair.
More than one-third (35%) of interviewers have eliminated a job candidate for looking at their phone during an interview, according a new study by LinkedIn, conducted by Censuswide Research. The study also found that body language could make or break an interview.
While hiring managers take into account your experience and education, factors such as poise and manners also are critical to making a good impression.
“While it’s tempting to leave your phone out–or at least on vibrate–even the slightest noise or light can cause a distraction and it is unlikely you will need to check it during an interview,” says Blair Decembrele, LinkedIn career expert. Shutting down your phone and placing in your bag or pocket before your interview will take away the temptation to look at your phone and allow you to be fully present, she says.
Surprisingly body language also can play a critical role in your interview. More than a quarter (26%) of U.S. interviewers prioritize the right body language in a candidate over a degree from a top school (19%), the study found. One of the biggest mistakes is slouching in your chair or retracting your body to take up the least amount of space, Decembrele says. This posture can give the impression that you aren’t confident or that you have something to hide. Sitting up straight and maintaining eye contact shows that you are interested in the job and engaged in the discussion. If there is a choice between sitting on a couch or a chair, always choose the chair because sitting upright feels more natural, Decembrele says.
Be mindful of your hand gestures, too. Be careful not to twirl your hair or your pen, or shake your legs as these actions can be seen as distracting, Decembrele says. Avoid aggressive body language such as pointing your finger at the hiring manager. Crossing your arms can be interpreted as a defensive posture.
The study found a number of other surprising mistakes that job candidates are make including:
- Nearly half (46%) of interviewers eliminated a candidate because of unprofessional attire.
- More than half (52%) of U.S. interviewers have turned down a candidate for lying about their previous work.
- More than half (63%) of U.S. interviewers eliminated a candidate for arriving late.
