Why You Should Be Nice To Everyone At Job Interviews
Impressing employers goes beyond boasting amazing credentials. Many job seekers think the interview starts with hiring managers, but it starts before that.
By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM
Updated on 2024-10-28 at 7:03 AM
Where Your Job Interview Really Begins
From the moment you step foot into the company’s premises, everyone you meet could influence the final hiring decision. Whether it’s the receptionist, security guard, or anyone else, their impression of you can matter just as much as the actual interview. Let’s explore how the little things can make or break your chances, and why being courteous to everyone counts.
Why First Impressions Matter At Job Interviews
You could be the best candidate the employer has ever met, but this one thing could cost you your job interview.
Many candidates prepare intensely for their formal interview but overlook the importance of interactions before and after. These non-verbal cues, such as how you greet the receptionist or interact in the lobby, offer a glimpse into your character. It's not just about acing the interview but presenting yourself as a well-rounded professional.
Are you someone who naturally builds rapport, or do you bring quiet confidence to office interactions? Knowing your real personality can provide clarity on how to present your best self, even in unstructured situations.
Consider this:
A candidate with an impressive resume and exceptional interview performance didn’t get the job simply because he was rude to the receptionist. The hiring manager later discovered this and decided it was a red flag for how the candidate might behave within the company.
You may not realise it, but receptionists and office assistants often provide informal feedback to the hiring team. Their impressions can contribute to the overall assessment of whether a candidate is a cultural fit. After all, how you treat people, regardless of their role, reflects your values and professionalism.
Always greet the receptionist warmly, maintain good manners, and engage respectfully, as these simple actions can go a long way in showing you're a considerate person.
The Importance of Professional Etiquette At Workplaces
Before and after the interview, you're likely to interact with other employees—whether it’s in the elevator, the waiting area, or even while walking down the hallway. Remember that everyone you meet could be your potential future colleague. How you conduct yourself around them speaks volumes about your character.
Be polite, smile, and show a positive attitude in every interaction. Even the smallest gestures, like holding the door open for someone, can leave a lasting impression.
Other Employees May Be Watching You
In many companies in Malaysia, the decision to hire someone isn’t solely based on the candidate's qualifications or performance in the interview. Companies assess how well you’d fit into their culture. Are you respectful? Do you show empathy and professionalism to everyone you encounter? Sometimes, hiring decisions are made based on how well a candidate interacts outside the formal interview room.
Many candidates don't realise that they’re being observed even before the interview officially begins. Whether it's the way you talk to the receptionist or how you behave when waiting in the lobby, these moments can be just as telling as the interview itself.
Unlocking Hidden Opportunities Through Positive Interactions
You never know who might hold the key to your next career move. Whether it’s a manager you happen to bump into at the door, or a junior team member, your behaviour can open doors you never even knew existed. Positive interactions with everyone you meet could lead to networking opportunities, referrals, or a better chance of landing the job.
In the competitive job market, standing out is more than just showcasing your skills or nailing the interview. How you treat others, including people who aren’t involved in the formal interview process, can be the difference between getting hired or passed over. Always be mindful of how you present yourself from the moment you walk into the office—kindness, respect, and professionalism go a long way in leaving a lasting impression.
If you’re looking to expand your professional network and unlock new opportunities, consider joining our new community. It’s a space where ambitious professionals share insights, connect, and grow their careers together. Being part of this community can help you cultivate the relationships and skills needed to thrive in today’s job market.
Conclusion
Standing out takes more than just nailing the actual interview. It’s about showing respect, empathy, and professionalism to everyone you meet—whether they’re part of the hiring process or not. Your behavior from the moment you step into the office can make all the difference in whether you get hired or passed over.
Why settle for ordinary when the right opportunity could be one click away? Head to my.hiredly.com/jobs and find roles that match your goals, values, and career ambitions. This is your moment—own it.
By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM