Blog

Posted on

Navigating Inappropriate Job Interview Questions: A Practical Guide for Women

cpd job interview question

The recruitment process is found to be unfair to women who are viewed as being at an age where they are likely to become pregnant therefore needing to take maternity leave. 

Across industries and around the world, interviewers often ask inappropriate, sometimes illegal, questions that hint at concerns about parental status, future family plans, or caregiving responsibilities.

Although it’s illegal to discriminate based on parental status in many countries, questions that aim to gather such information still emerge, often indirectly throughout the recruitment process.

Knowing how to respond to inappropriate parental (job interview) questions can help candidates protect their job prospects and, ultimately, contribute to reducing discriminatory practices in hiring.

In recent research, ‘How to respond to inappropriate questions in job interviews: Personal and social consequences of truth-telling, deflection and confrontation’ solutions to this common bias have been looked into. 

Why do hiring managers ask questions about pregnancy? 

Employment discrimination against women based on their potential for motherhood stems from deep-seated cultural biases and stereotypes.

Research shows that assumptions about women’s roles and availability can impact perceptions of their commitment, “fit,” and dedication to a job.

Often, women are expected to prioritize family responsibilities over work, a stereotype that rarely affects men in the same way even though many males now take paternity leave for long periods of time.

The belief feeds into a cycle where women may be asked inappropriate questions during the job interview, putting female applicants in the position of either awkwardly disclosing personal information or having to find a way to sidestep the question.

This scenario places women at a crossroads where they must carefully weigh how to respond, balancing their desire for authenticity with a pragmatic approach that supports their chances of being hired.

Conflict Management Strategies for Dealing with Illegal Job Interview Questions

Kahalon, R., Ullrich, J. and Becker, J.C. (2024) ‘How to respond to inappropriate questions in job interviews: Personal and social consequences of truth-telling, deflection and confrontation’, European Journal of Social Psychology research paper found three conflict management strategies that can be used to deal with inappropriate parental status interview questions.

The results from three experiments that attributed to the research suggest that ‘deflection’ (i.e., responding with another question) is the superior strategy when asked questions about future family planning as the strategy increases the chance of being hired compared to applicants who opt for truth telling (which can play into the employers biases).

Another option is ‘confrontation’ (i.e., saying that the question is inappropriate). The confrontation method was found to be superior in terms of a social level and leads to a decrease the probability that the same interviewer will asked similar questions to women in future interviews but is highly unlikely to result in a job offer for the candidate confronting the employer.

The 3 common strategies to approach the illegal interview question:

  1. The Strategy of Truthful Disclosure

The first strategy is to answer the interviewer’s question honestly, even if it touches on sensitive topics.

For example, if asked about family plans, one might say, “Yes, I do plan on having children in the future,” or “I currently have two young children.”

Pros of Truthful Disclosure

  • Authenticity: This approach demonstrates openness and honesty, qualities that can sometimes foster trust.
  • Avoids Risk of Misinterpretation: With a direct answer, there’s no ambiguity, and interviewers cannot misinterpret your words.
  • Strengthens Personal Confidence: Answering directly can feel empowering, especially for those who value transparency.

Cons of Truthful Disclosure

  • Reduced Hiring Chances: Disclosing parental status or plans can sometimes play into biases, leading interviewers to view you as less committed to the job.
  • Reinforces Biases: By answering these questions, you inadvertently accept them as valid, which can perpetuate the belief that parental status is a legitimate consideration in hiring.

When to Use Truthful Disclosure

Truthful disclosure can be an appropriate response if:

  • You believe that the company genuinely supports work-life balance and doesn’t penalize employees for family commitments.
  • You feel comfortable sharing and believe your response will not affect your hiring chances.

Example Response: “Yes, I do have children, but I have a strong support system that allows me to be fully committed to my role.”

Practical Tip: Reframe the Disclosure

If you choose to disclose, use it as a segue to emphasize your strengths. For instance, mentioning a support system or flexibility plan demonstrates your commitment to managing both professional and personal responsibilities.

  1. Confrontation as a Strategy for Social Change

Confronting the interviewer about the inappropriateness of the interview question is a more direct strategy that can go either way.

The direct approach challenges the interviewer and brings attention to the issue, signalling that inappropriate questions are not acceptable – sometimes the hiring manager isn’t aware of the appropriateness of the questions until their attention is drawn to it.

For example, if asked about your plans to start a family, you might respond, “I’m not sure how that’s relevant to my ability to perform in this role.”

Pros of Confrontation

  • Sets Boundaries: Directly addressing inappropriate questions helps set professional boundaries and demonstrates self-advocacy.
  • Promotes Social Change: Confrontation can have a ripple effect, discouraging interviewers from asking similar questions in the future.
  • Establishes Respect: This approach can also communicate that you are confident and unwilling to accept discrimination.

Cons of Confrontation

  • Perceived as Aggressive: Confrontation can sometimes be perceived as combative, especially for women, who may face backlash for challenging authority.
  • Risk of Not Being Hired: By directly opposing the interviewer, you might reduce your chances of securing the position.

When to Use Confrontation

Confrontation is ideal if:

  • You value setting a strong precedent against discrimination.
  • You’re willing to take a risk for the potential reward of encouraging more equitable practices.

Example Response: “I think questions about family status are generally unrelated to my professional abilities and commitment. I’m happy to discuss my relevant skills and experiences for this role.”

Practical Tip: Use a Neutral Tone

When confronting, aim to maintain a neutral tone to reduce the likelihood of being perceived as overly defensive. This can help frame your response as an assertion rather than an accusation.

  1. Deflection: A Polite and Practical Response

Deflection is an indirect way of responding by sidestepping the question without providing a direct answer.

This strategy, which was found to be best approach in terms of becoming hired, can help avoid disclosing unnecessary personal information while keeping the conversation professional.

For example, if asked about family planning, you could respond with, “I’m curious, do many team members make use of the daycare facility you mentioned?”

Pros of Deflection

  • Protects Privacy: Deflection allows you to keep personal matters private without seeming evasive.
  • Maintains Likability: By using a neutral question, you keep the tone positive and professional, which can boost your appeal as a candidate.
  • Reduces Hiring Risk: This strategy is effective for protecting hiring chances, as it sidesteps the potential biases triggered by direct answers.

Cons of Deflection

  • Doesn’t Challenge the Bias: By deflecting, you avoid addressing the interviewer’s potentially discriminatory motive, which may not deter them from asking similar questions in the future.
  • Can Feel Evasive: Some interviewers might sense that you’re not answering directly, which could prompt additional probing.

When to Use Deflection

Deflection is especially useful if:

  • You want to keep the conversation professional without addressing the question directly.
  • You feel the interviewer may not take well to confrontation but want to avoid disclosing personal information.

Example Response: “I’m interested in hearing more about the company culture and how it supports work-life balance for all employees.”

Practical Tip: Shift the Focus

Try shifting the focus back to your professional qualities. Deflection can include redirection to emphasize your interest in the company’s culture, expectations, or support systems, keeping the interview on track.

Evolve the mind book on Amazon

Weighing the Cost-Benefit of Each Strategy

Each response strategy—truthful disclosure, confrontation, and deflection—vary in terms of their implications, and choosing the right approach depends on both the situation and your personal preferences.

Summary of the 3 strategies:

StrategyBenefitsDrawbacks
Truthful DisclosureBuilds trust, feels authenticRisk of reinforcing bias, reduced hiring chances
ConfrontationSets boundaries, promotes social changeCan reduce likability, may harm hiring chances
DeflectionProtects privacy, maintains likabilityDoesn’t challenge bias, might seem evasive

Additional Tips for Navigating Inappropriate Questions

  1. Prepare Responses in Advance: Anticipating questions and practicing responses can make an applicant feel more confident and prepared. Consider rehearsing responses that both deflect and redirect the conversation.
  2. Highlight Your Skills and Commitment: Redirecting to your professional abilities or relevant experience can subtly remind interviewers that your suitability for the role doesn’t hinge on your family status.
  3. Be Aware of Legal Rights: Understand the laws in your region regarding interview questions. If a question directly violates your rights, you may wish to address it accordingly or, in some cases, consider reporting it.
  4. Assess Company Culture: When you encounter inappropriate questions, consider it as a potential red flag regarding the company culture. If these questions feel invasive or suggest a lack of support for work-life balance, it may signal broader issues within the organization.
  5. Trust Your Instincts: If an interviewer’s questions make you uncomfortable or seem inappropriate, remember that your response is ultimately for your benefit. You deserve to find a workplace that values your contributions, not your personal life.

Moving Forward: Balancing Personal and Social Impact

Balancing personal goals with a desire for broader change can be challenging, especially in job interviews.

Deflection remains a popular choice for its practicality, but if your long-term goal is to advocate for more inclusive workplaces, you may decide to occasionally confront inappropriate questions as well. Each response holds the potential to inform hiring practices and can, over time, contribute to changing the narrative about women in the workforce.

Remember that regardless of your response, simply being prepared and confident can make a significant difference. By thoughtfully navigating inappropriate questions, you can better protect your career prospects, challenge biases when possible, and work toward creating a more equitable workplace for everyone.

Source:

Kahalon, R., Ullrich, J. and Becker, J.C. (2024) ‘How to respond to inappropriate questions in job interviews: Personal and social consequences of truth?telling, deflection and confrontation’, European Journal of Social Psychology, 54(4), pp. doi:10.1002/ejsp.3062.

Posted on

Lights, Camera, Action: How Gaze Can Make or Break Your Online Job Interview

On the face of it, eye contact during a virtual video interview doesn’t seem that important. In a recent study by Shinya, M., Yamane, N., Mori, Y. et al, eye contact was found to be a key decision in the hiring process.

How to present yourself effectively on camera has never been more important. In particular, the power of eye contact – something we often take for granted in face-to-face interviews – can heavily influence how an interviewee is perceived by the interviewer panel during a video interview. 

In the recent study, ‘off-camera gaze decreases evaluation scores in a simulated online job interview’, researchers found that candidates who looked directly into the camera were rated more favorably compared to those who looked at the screen, which often led to ‘skewed gaze’ and the impression of disengagement.

The following article will dive into why eye contact matters in virtual interviews, how gaze can impact evaluations, and share actionable tips to help a career professional make a strong impression during an online job interview.

Why Eye Contact Matters in Virtual Job Interviews

The power of eye contact is well-documented in psychology. Eye contact builds trust, shows confidence, and demonstrates attentiveness.

In face-to-face interviews, mutual gaze – when two people make direct eye contact – fosters feelings of connection, rapport, and understanding. However, in a virtual job interview, this dynamic is disrupted by the technology the applicant uses. The typical setup of an online video interview positions the camera slightly above the screen (and on laptops and phones the camera is fixed), so even if a candidate is looking at the interviewer’s face on the screen (the natural default), the job hunters gaze can appear averted to the interview panel, creating the perception that the interviewee is not fully engaged.

The study involving Japanese university students acting as interviewees in simulated job interviews revealed that candidates who looked directly at the camera (creating the perception of eye contact) were rated higher on all evaluation criteria than those who looked at the interviewer’s face on the screen.

In other words, aligning your gaze with the camera makes you come across as more confident, engaged, and trustworthy, which can play a big role in how a career professional is perceived as a potential hire. Impression management (your interview identity) is key to helping a job seeker increase job offers during the recruitment process. 

Understanding “Skewed Visuality” in Online Interviews

In face-to-face interactions, maintaining eye contact happens naturally (unless the job applicant is nervous or lacks in self-esteem which both increase a ‘downward’ gaze).

When you’re talking to a screen, it’s easy to fall into what researchers call “skewed visuality” – the disconnect caused by looking at the screen instead of the camera. Humans naturally look at the screen, the interviewers face, to subconsciously read facial ques.

From your interviewer’s perspective, skewed visuality, creates the impression that the candidate’s eyes are downcast or even distracted. This discrepancy, although unintended, can make an interviewee seem disengaged or less personable, creating a ‘bored’ or ‘indifferent’ interview identity.

The impact of skewed visuality is particularly pronounced for candidates and interviewers who place high value on social cues like eye contact. The study found that women interviewers and interviewees, in particular, rated on-camera eye contact more favorably than their male counterparts, emphasizing that subtle differences in gaze behavior may affect perceptions differently across genders.

Improve how you ‘look’ in a job interview

These practical will help you ace your job interview by improving your ‘gaze’ during an online job interview

1. Set Up Your Screen and Camera for Success

  • Elevate Your Camera to Eye Level: A webcam positioned at eye level creates the most natural look. Many people make the mistake of looking down at their laptop camera, which can create the perception of being distant or disengaged.
  • Minimize the Interview Window: Shrink the video call window and move it as close to the camera as possible. This makes it more natural for the job applicant to look at both the camera and the interviewer’s face simultaneously, which can help maintain focus without losing that all-important direct “eye contact.”
  • Center Yourself in the Frame: Sitting far enough from the camera so that an applicant’s head and shoulders are in the shot is the best frame, and avoid positioning yourself too close to the camera, which can make an interviewee appear overly intense.

2. Practice Looking Directly at the Camera

Looking directly at the camera will at first feel strange and unnatural. However, you can use visual cues to train yourself:

  • Use Sticky Notes as Reminders: Place a small sticky note next to your camera to remind yourself where to look, particularly during key moments of the interview.
  • Practice with Video Recordings: Record yourself answering interview questions while looking at the camera. Notice how your gaze affects your appearance and adjust accordingly until you feel comfortable.

3. Engage with Non-Verbal Cues

Non-verbal cues, like nodding and smiling, can help convey warmth and interest even when your gaze is fixed on the camera.

  • Nod Slightly While Listening: Nodding conveys attentiveness and engagement. This subtle movement can help bridge the gap between face-to-face and virtual interaction, making you appear more approachable.
  • Smile at Appropriate Times: A genuine smile can enhance your facial expressions, making you seem more personable and enthusiastic. Smiling while looking at the camera is especially effective in creating a warm first impression.

4. Be Mindful of Cultural Nuances and Gaze Expectations

While gaze direction is essential, cultural factors can influence how your gaze is perceived. In some cultures, direct eye contact might be interpreted differently, especially in professional settings. Although Western contexts typically favor direct eye contact as a sign of confidence, East Asian contexts may not emphasize eye contact to the same extent. However, regardless of cultural norms, intentional eye contact in an interview setting often signals professionalism and attentiveness.

  • Research Cultural Norms: If you’re interviewing with an international company, it may be helpful to research cultural expectations around eye contact.
  • Ask for Feedback: If you’re unsure, consider asking a friend from a similar background to your interviewer to watch a practice interview and provide feedback on your gaze behavior.

5. Test Your Setup Before the Interview

Technical glitches or awkward camera angles can distract from your focus, so give yourself time to set up and practice before the actual interview. Here are some quick checks:

  • Check Your Internet Connection: A stable connection reduces the chances of delays, which can throw off the timing of your eye contact.
  • Run a Mock Interview: Have a friend or career coach conduct a mock interview on the same platform. Test your gaze technique to ensure you appear as natural as possible.
  • Adjust Your Lighting: Good lighting from the front (preferably natural light) can help highlight your face, making your expressions and gaze clearer. Avoid backlighting, which can create shadows and make it harder for the interviewer to read your expressions.
Evolve the mind book on Amazon

Overcoming the Challenge of “Skewed Visuality” with Confidence

While the difference between looking at the screen and looking at the camera may seem small, it has significant implications for online interactions, particularly in formal settings like job interviews. Candidates who appear as though they’re making direct eye contact tend to be perceived as more engaged and personable. By mastering these gaze techniques, you can stand out as a confident communicator.

Final Thoughts: Virtual Interviews and Future Trends in Communication Technology

As technology advances, the gap between virtual and face-to-face communication may narrow. In the meantime, understanding and leveraging the power of intentional gaze can give a savvy job hunter an edge in virtual interviews. Looking at the camera, practicing subtle non-verbal cues, and being mindful of cultural nuances will help candidates establish the presence of someone who’s genuinely invested in the conversation, even through a screen.

In a competitive job market, small adjustments during an interview performance can make a big difference in how potential employers perceive the career professional. By adopting these techniques, an interviewee can easily navigate the unique challenges of virtual interviewing, creating a lasting, positive impression that could be the deciding factor in landing a lucrative job offer.

Source:

Shinya, M., Yamane, N., Mori, Y. et al. Off-camera gaze decreases evaluation scores in a simulated online job interview. Sci Rep 14, 12056 (2024).

Delaney, C. (2021). What Is Your Interview Identity. MX Publishing.

Posted on

Using CHATGPT During an Interview Will Increase Your Chances of Gaining a Job Offer

Recent research has found that using AI during an asynchronous video interview (AVI) will increase the chances of a job applicant gaining a job offer.

The use of AI in various fields has been a game-changer, and recruitment is no exception. One of the most interesting applications in this domain is how artificial intelligence, particularly tools like ChatGPT, has started impacting job interviews.

Asynchronous video interviews (AVI), in which a candidate responds to pre-recorded questions, have become a common selection method for organizations. This format allows candidates to participate at their convenience, without needing a real-time interviewer. However, the increasing accessibility of AI tools raises questions about fairness, integrity, and cheating in these interview settings.

The recent study “ChatGPT, Can You Take My Job Interview? Examining Artificial Intelligence Cheating in the Asynchronous Video Interview” delves into these issues, investigating how AI impacts candidate performance and perceptions during AVIs.

The Rise of AI in Job Interviews

The recruitment industry has seen a significant transformation with the advent of AI. From automating candidate screening to enabling predictive analytics for assessing future job performance, AI is reshaping the way companies hire talent. One of the latest concerns involves AI assistance in interviews, especially in AVIs, where nervous candidates may feel tempted to use AI tools like ChatGPT to generate their responses.

As discussed in previous articles, asynchronous video interviews have grown in popularity because they offer flexibility for both candidates and interviewers. Candidates record their answers to pre-set questions, and interviewers can review them at their convenience.

This format is handy for high-volume recruitment (global organisations, businesses opening new branches, companies with regular staff turnover IE hiring students) and geographically dispersed applicants. For highly skilled or paid roles, AVIs form the initial part of the recruitment process to reduce the number of human interviews (a cost-saving technique) for applicants who wouldn’t have made the cut.

Research Objectives: Exploring AI Cheating

The study by Damian Canagasuriam and Eden-Raye Lukacik provides the first examination of how AI cheating in AVIs can influence interview outcomes.

Specifically, the researchers sought to understand whether using AI tools like ChatGPT improves a candidate’s performance and how it affects other key factors, such as honesty ratings and procedural fairness.

The study was based on a pre-registered experiment involving 245 respondents from the online research platform Prolific. These participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions:

1. **Non-ChatGPT Condition:** Candidates responded to interview questions without any AI assistance.

2. **ChatGPT-Verbatim Condition:** Candidates read AI-generated responses word-for-word.

3. **ChatGPT-Personalized Condition:** Candidates provided their résumé or contextual information to ChatGPT and modified the AI-generated responses before using them.

By comparing these groups, the researchers aimed to measure differences in overall interview performance, response content, delivery, perceived honesty, and procedural justice.

Key Findings: AI Boosts Performance but Raises Ethical Concerns

One of the most notable findings of the study is that candidates who used AI assistance, particularly in the ChatGPT-Personalized condition, received significantly higher scores on overall performance and content. This suggests that AI-generated responses are generally more articulate and well-structured than human-generated responses, potentially giving AI users an advantage in the interview process.

The high scores suggest that the cross reference of the applicant’s resume against the contextual information (the job spec) creates more relevant answers. The two of the three rules for a successful interview outcome are 1) identify the job criteria and 2) be a self-promoter.

However, the study also found some drawbacks to using AI in interviews. While AI-assisted candidates performed better in terms of content, their response delivery ratings (i.e., how well they communicated their answers) were not significantly different from those of the non-ChatGPT group. This indicates that the AI-generated content did not necessarily make candidates appear more convincing or engaging in their delivery.

These findings relate to research into impression management – your interview identity, where tonality, body language, word choice, humour, confidence, rapport, and communication style in general, impact the likeability factor influencing the employer’s view of the candidate’s credibility. The third rule of a successful interview is 3) communicate with confidence.

More importantly, both AI conditions received lower honesty ratings than the non-ChatGPT group. This suggests that interviewers or evaluators were able to sense the lack of authenticity in AI-generated responses, even if they couldn’t pinpoint exactly why.

Honesty is a crucial factor in job interviews, and a dip in perceived integrity could negatively impact candidates who rely heavily on AI tools. Four out of the sixteen interview identities are formed when a candidate is perceived as knowledgeable and/or experienced due to the content of the (AI-prompted) interview answer but delivered with poor communication, including the ‘indifferent interview identity’.

Furthermore, candidates in both ChatGPT conditions rated the interview process lower in terms of procedural justice. This indicates that even those who used AI felt that the process was less fair, potentially because they were aware that they were not fully representing themselves. This dissatisfaction with the process may affect their overall perception of the employer and could lead to negative candidate experiences.

Implications for Employers: Fairness and Integrity

For employers, these findings raise important questions about the validity of AVIs as a selection tool in the age of AI. If candidates are using AI to improve their responses, it becomes difficult to determine whether the interview truly reflects the applicants capabilities or if it’s a reflection of AI’s language generation prowess.

Employers may need to reassess their reliance on AVIs and consider whether these interviews can accurately assess a candidate’s potential. In addition, AI detection measures may become necessary to maintain the integrity of the process. Tools that can identify AI-generated content or discrepancies between a candidate’s résumé and their interview responses could help mitigate AI cheating. However, these measures could also introduce new ethical concerns, such as privacy invasion or over-scrutiny of candidates’ personal data.

Moreover, interviewers may need to be trained to focus more on qualitative aspects of the interview, such as authenticity and emotional intelligence, rather than solely on the content of the responses. This shift could help ensure that interviews continue to assess the human qualities that are essential for many roles.

Implications for Job Seekers: The Ethics of AI Assistance

For job seekers, the temptation to use AI tools like ChatGPT in interviews is understandable, especially when facing tough competition. This is especially true for anxious interviewees who may look for a shortcut to help boost their morale during the recruitment process.

AI can help candidates craft more polished and compelling answers, improving their chances of success. However, the study highlights the potential risks of relying too heavily on AI. There are other AI tools that can help job seekers prior to the job interview including Linked-In interview preparation AI tool which helps prepare candidates for job interviews by measuring not only the content of their interview answers but also the applicant’s communication style; filler words, word count, and sensitive phrases.

One key concern is that interviewers may perceive AI-generated responses as dishonest, even if they can’t explicitly identify the use of AI. This perception could harm a candidate’s reputation and lead to lower ratings in areas like integrity and trustworthiness—qualities that are often critical in hiring decisions.

Additionally, candidates who use AI tools may experience feelings of guilt or dissatisfaction with the interview process. If they feel that they are not accurately representing themselves, they may question whether they truly deserve the job, leading to imposter syndrome or a lack of confidence in their abilities.

For those who choose to use AI assistance, the challenge lies in striking the right balance between leveraging AI for improvement and ensuring that their responses remain authentic and personal. Candidates should view AI as a tool to refine their communication, rather than as a crutch that does all the work for them.

A mix of AI assistance and a human mock interview could give the greatest advantage to a job applicant.

Evolve the mind book on Amazon

Broader Ethical Considerations: The Future of AI in Recruitment

The rise of AI in recruitment presents a broader ethical dilemma: To what extent should AI be allowed to influence the hiring process? On the one hand, AI can help level the playing field by providing candidates with tools to express themselves more effectively, especially for those who may struggle with language or articulation. On the other hand, if AI-generated responses dominate interviews, the process may become more about evaluating AI’s capabilities than assessing the candidate’s own skills and personality.

There is also the risk that over-reliance on AI could lead to a lack of diversity in responses. AI tools like ChatGPT are trained on large datasets, which may not fully capture the nuances of individual experiences, particularly for underrepresented groups. If AI-generated responses become the norm, there is a danger that interviews could lose the diversity of thought and perspective that is essential for innovation and problem-solving.

Employers and candidates alike will need to navigate these ethical challenges as AI continues to evolve and become more integrated into the recruitment process. Clear guidelines and transparency about the use of AI in interviews could help maintain fairness while allowing candidates to benefit from AI tools in a way that enhances, rather than replaces, their own abilities.

Conclusion: Navigating the AI-Assisted Future of Recruitment

As AI becomes more prevalent in job interviews, both employers and candidates will need to adapt. Employers must find ways to ensure that interviews remain a reliable measure of a candidate’s potential, while candidates must carefully balance the benefits of AI assistance with the need to remain authentic and trustworthy.

The future of recruitment will likely involve a combination of human judgment and AI-enhanced tools. The challenge lies in ensuring that this combination enhances the process without compromising the values of fairness, diversity, and integrity that are essential for effective hiring.

Source:

Canagasuriam, D. and Eden?Raye Lukacik (2024). ChatGPT, can you take my job interview? Examining artificial intelligence cheating in the asynchronous video interview. International journal of selection and assessment. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/ijsa.12491.

Delaney, C. (2021). What Is Your Interview Identity. MX Publishing.

Posted on

Leveraging Psychological Tricks to Ace the Job Interview

In today’s competitive job market, only the strongest interviewees are offered high-paying roles.

While stating job experience and qualifications on the application form will get you a job interview it is the persuasive communication skills of the career professional that lands a job offer. The interview is where you truly make your case. Interviews are more than just answering questions—they’re about persuasion, impression management, and connecting with your interviewer on multiple levels.

Understanding psychological principles will give the savvy candidate an edge over the competition. The article explores how psychological tricks, rooted in the science of persuasion and social psychology, can increase an interviewee’s ability to win over the interview panel.

Cialdini’s Principles of Persuasion in Job Interviews

You can’t write an article on the psychology of persuasion without quoting Cialdini.

Reciprocity: Building Rapport by Giving (and then receiving)

The principle of reciprocity is simple: people feel obligated to return favours.

In an interview setting, reciprocity has to be subtle. By offering something of value to the interviewer—whether it’s information, insight, or a genuine compliment can create an overwhelming need for the interviewer to offer something in return for the initial ‘gift’. 

For instance, during a discussion about the company’s challenges, offering a thoughtful idea or a unique perspective can create a sense of reciprocity. The interviewer might feel more inclined to view you favorably because you’ve provided something of value that they can use.

Authority: Presenting Yourself as an Expert

Interviewers are looking for candidates who can bring expertise to their roles.

By subtly establishing yourself as an authority in your field, you can significantly enhance your appeal. This doesn’t mean bragging; instead, it involves demonstrating your knowledge through well-prepared, detailed answers. Citing relevant experience, referring to industry standards, or mentioning certifications can all help establish your authority.

The interview prediction grid model (interview identity test) explains how being seen as a confident expert (charismatic interview identity) in the recruitment process vastly increases the chances of a candidate being offered the advertised role. The key is to balance confidence with humility, ensuring you come across as knowledgeable but not arrogant (egocentric interview identity).

Social Proof: Leveraging the Power of Testimonials and References

Social proof, the idea that people look to others to determine what is correct, can be powerful in an interview.

Providing examples (embedding the examples within the job interview answer) of positive feedback from previous employers, clients, or colleagues can reinforce your suitability for the job.

In addition, persuasive applicants will reference LinkedIn recommendations or bring up relevant endorsements which subtly remind the interviewer that others have recognized the candidate’s abilities. Many employers look at candidates LinkedIn profile prior to the interview and the applicant’s content, posts, and any recommendations create either a ‘halo’ or ‘horns effect.

It is also powerful to discuss how another employer has already offered the applicant a job, as this creates scarcity of persuasion as well as social proof.

Social proof not only boosts an interviewee’s credibility but also aligns with the interviewer’s desire to select a candidate validated by others.

Liking: Building a Personal Connection

People are more likely to say yes to someone they like.

During an interview, finding common ground with the interviewer can be invaluable. Common ground could be something as simple as a shared interest, or a similar career path, or any commonality (attended the same university, both eat at the same restaurant, or watch the same TV programme – all personal information that is easy to find on social media platforms once a job seeker has the interviewers name).

Engaging in light, relevant conversations about these topics can make the interviewee more likable. However, authenticity is crucial; forced attempts to connect can have the opposite effect.

In addition, showing genuine interest in the interviewer and the company culture can foster a positive, likable impression.

Scarcity: Highlighting Your Unique Qualities

Scarcity, the idea that people value what is rare, can be used to a career professional’s advantage by highlighting what makes them uniquely qualified for the position.

Whether it’s a rare skill set, a unique experience, a track record of being successful in the sector, or an uncommon perspective, emphasizing these aspects can make you stand out. For example, if you have experience in a niche area that the company is looking to expand into, make sure to bring this to the forefront during your interview.

Remember the other job applicants are likely to have a similar level of academia, experience, and knowledge, what the persuasive interviewee offers is something unique and valuable in addition to the norm.

Consistency: Aligning with the Company’s Values

People like to see consistency in others’ behaviour and beliefs.

In an interview, this means aligning your answers and examples with the company’s core values and mission. Researching the company thoroughly beforehand will help you tailor your responses to reflect these values.

If a company values innovation, for example, sharing past experiences where you brought new ideas to life can show that you’re a good fit. Consistency between what you say and what the company stands for can significantly strengthen your candidacy.

Cognitive Biases in Interviews

Halo Effect: Making a Strong First Impression

The halo effect is a cognitive bias where an initial positive impression influences subsequent judgments.

In a job interview, the first few minutes are crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the conversation. A confident handshake, a warm smile, and professional attire contribute to a strong first impression.

Preparing a succinct, compelling introduction about yourself that highlights key strengths can also help trigger the halo effect. Once the interviewer has a positive initial impression, they are more likely to view the rest of your responses through that favourable lens.

Warning: the horns effect is the opposite of the halo effect, a first bad impression (sweaty handshake, stuttering introduction, and weak body language) will create a negative lens that all interview answers are filtered through.

Anchoring: Setting the Tone for Key Discussions

Anchoring refers to the tendency to rely heavily on the first piece of information encountered when making decisions.

This piece of psychology can be used to the applicant’s advantage in an interview by setting the tone early by discussing a key success, or a unique selling point, something that the employer requires.

In a similar vein, when asked about your experience, starting with the most impressive achievement can set a high standard for the rest of the interview.

The technique is also used during salary negotiations. For example, if salary is discussed, mentioning a higher figure early on can serve as an anchor, making subsequent negotiations more favorable to you.

Confirmation Bias: Reinforcing Positive Assumptions

Confirmation bias is the tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information in a way that confirms our own preconceptions.

As an example, If an interviewee can create a positive perception early in the interview, confirmation bias may cause the interviewer to focus on aspects of their responses that reinforce the interviewers positive view, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Subtly guide this process by consistently tying the interview answers back to stated strengths and experiences that align with the job requirements. Remember the three rules for a successful job interview are 1) identify the job criteria, 2) be a self-promoter 3) communicate with confidence.

By reinforcing the interviewer’s positive assumptions, the candidate will be remembered by the interviewer more favorably (and stated weaknesses that slip out during the interview will be subconsciously dismissed).

Nonverbal Communication: The Silent Influencer

Body Language: Conveying Confidence and Openness

Much research shows how body language can significantly influence how a person is perceived in an interview.

Open, confident postures – sitting up straight, leaning slightly forward, and using hand gestures when speaking—can convey confidence and self-assurance.

Avoid closed-off gestures such as crossing your arms, which can make you appear defensive.

Smiling (naturally not forced) and nodding occasionally when the interviewer speaks can also signal an attentive and agreeable candidate.

Eye Contact and Mirroring: Establishing Trust

Maintaining appropriate eye contact is crucial in building trust and rapport during an interview.

Eye contact shows confidence and sincerity. However, it’s important to strike a balance as too much eye contact can be perceived as aggressive, while too little can suggest insecurity.

Mirroring (subtly mimicking the interviewer’s body language), can also create a subconscious rapport. For example, if the interviewer leans forward, the candidate can mirror the same a few moments later. Mirroring can also be used verbally; mimicking tonality, volume, and word choice.

The mirroring technique can make the interviewer feel more comfortable and connected to the job applicants, increasing their chances of being remembered positively.

Hand Gestures: Enhancing Verbal Communication

Using hand gestures while speaking can make an interviewee’s verbal communication more engaging and memorable as research suggests that people who use hand gestures are often perceived as more energetic and enthusiastic.

Hand gestures can be particularly useful when explaining complex ideas or discussing your experiences. However, it’s essential to keep gestures natural and not overdo them, as excessive movement can be distracting.

Impression Management Techniques

Self-Promotion: Highlighting Your Achievements Effectively

Self-promotion involves presenting accomplishments in a way that highlights your competence without coming across as boastful.

When discussing achievements, focus on how the achievements benefited your previous employers and what you learned from those experiences.

For example, instead of saying, “I was the top salesperson,” you might say, “I consistently exceeded my sales targets by doing X, which contributed to a 20% increase in revenue for the company. An alternative way to achieve sales targets was to do Y but the negative impact of this approach was Z, which is why on this occasion I chose the first approach” This not only highlights your success but also demonstrates your understanding of its broader impact.

Ingratiation: Sincerely Complimenting the Interviewer or Company

Ingratiation involves using flattery or compliments to increase your likability.

While flattery is effective (everyone enjoys being praised), it’s important to be sincere.

Complimenting the interviewer on something specific—like their insights during the interview or the company’s recent achievements can create a positive atmosphere.

However, over-complementing or making insincere comments can backfire, making you seem disingenuous. The key is to find opportunities to express genuine admiration or respect without overstepping.

Emotional Intelligence: The Key to Managing Interactions

Self-Regulation: Staying Calm Under Pressure

Job interviews for most are very stressful.

Stress leads the job applicant to act in a way that doesn’t show their true selves, and therefore what the candidate can offer the organisation if they are successful in the recruitment process.

Emotional intelligence plays a critical role in how a career professional handles the stress and pressure of a job interview.

Self-regulation, a key component of emotional intelligence, involves managing your emotions and staying composed.

Techniques like deep breathing or visualization can help calm a person’s nerves before and during the interview. Repetition – attending many job interviews or undertaking mock interviews creates calmness through familiarity (knowing what to expect).

By maintaining composure an interviewee can think more clearly, respond more effectively, and project genuine confidence.

Empathy: Understanding the Interviewer’s Perspective

Empathy -the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, can be a powerful tool in an interview.

By considering the interviewer’s perspective (what they’re looking for in a candidate, their concerns, and their goals, the company values, leadership styles)a savvy candidate can tailor their responses to address the needs of the employer. Rule one for a successful job interview outcome, identify the job criteria.

For example, if  the interviewer is concerned about a gap in an applicants employment history, the candidate can proactively address it by explaining how they used that time productively through, as an example, returning to education.

Being aware of the interviewer’s emotional response to an interview answer can help the interviewee change, adapt or build on the answer depending on their understanding of the employer’s feelings.

Also, demonstrating empathy shows that you are not only a good communicator but also attuned to others’ needs. A vital skill in some job roles.

Evolve the mind book on Amazon

Conclusion

By understanding and applying principles of persuasion, managing cognitive biases, using effective nonverbal communication, and leveraging emotional intelligence during a job interview will significantly increase the chances of a career professional gaining a job offer. 

The techniques discussed will help an interviewee present their best self, making a strong impression. While psychological techniques can give you an edge in job interviews, it’s important to use them ethically. The goal is to present yourself authentically and build genuine connections.

Remember, the key is not just to be prepared, but to be self-aware and responsive to the dynamics of the interview process. With these insights, a job hunter will be well-equipped to navigate your next job interview with confidence.

References

  1. Cialdini, R. B. (2007).Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion (Revised Edition). Harper Business.
    • Cialdini’s book is a foundational text in understanding principles like reciprocity, authority, and social proof, which are crucial in persuasive communication, including job interviews.
  2. Judge, T. A., & Cable, D. M. (2004). The effect of physical height on workplace success and income: Preliminary test of a theoretical model. Journal of Applied Psychology, 89(3), 428-441.
    • This study explores how first impressions, including nonverbal cues like height, can influence perceptions of authority and competence in professional settings, such as job interviews.
  3. Todorov, A., Mandisodza, A. N., Goren, A., & Hall, C. C. (2005). Inferences of competence from faces predict election outcomes. Science, 308(5728), 1623-1626.
    • Discusses how first impressions based on facial appearance can impact judgments of competence, relevant to the halo effect in interviews.
  4. Guthrie, C., & Diekmann, K. A. (2007). Cognitive biases in negotiator judgment: An experimental study. Negotiation Journal, 23(2), 105-119.
    • Explores various cognitive biases, including anchoring and confirmation bias, which are applicable in interview settings when setting expectations and reinforcing positive perceptions.
  5. Ekman, P., & Friesen, W. V. (1969). Nonverbal leakage and clues to deception. Psychiatry, 32(1), 88-106.
    • This classic study on nonverbal communication is useful for understanding how body language can reveal underlying emotions and intentions during interviews.
  6. Goffman, E. (1959).The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. Anchor Books.
    • Goffman’s work on impression management provides a theoretical foundation for understanding how individuals present themselves in social interactions, including job interviews.
  7. Goleman, D. (1995).Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam Books.
    • Goleman’s book introduces the concept of emotional intelligence, which is key in managing one’s emotions and understanding others during high-stakes situations like job interviews.
  8. Rafaeli, A., & Sutton, R. I. (1990). Busy stores and demanding customers: How do they affect the display of positive emotion? Academy of Management Journal, 33(3), 623-637.
    • This study explores how emotional displays can influence perceptions in professional settings, relevant to the discussion of self-regulation and empathy in interviews.
  9. Kacmar, K. M., & Ferris, G. R. (1991). Perceptions of organizational politics scale (POPS): Development and construct validation. Educational and Psychological Measurement, 51(1), 193-205.
    • Explores the role of impression management in organizational contexts, providing insight into tactics like self-promotion and ingratiation during interviews.
  10. Bargh, J. A., & Chartrand, T. L. (1999). The unbearable automaticity of being. American Psychologist, 54(7), 462-479.
    • Discusses the automatic nature of social behavior, including mirroring and other nonverbal communication strategies that can be employed in interviews.

Chris Delaney (2021) Book: What is your interview identity

  • Explains the structured job interview process, unconscious bias and how an interviewee can present the best version of themselves

Posted on

The Science of Job Interviews: Insights from Scholarly Research

Employers understand that job interviews are the critical component of the hiring process, serving as a key mechanism for employers to assess candidates’ suitability for a position.

The fact that no-one employer has found the perfect processing that results in the hiring of their first-choice candidate has led, over the years, to extensive research.

This research has been conducted to understand the intricacies of job interviews, from the structure and format to the biases and perceptions that can influence hiring outcomes.

We have collated the key points from a range of academic research on job interviews, providing hiring managers with the insights into how the major findings from scholarly articles can be optimized for better hiring decisions.

1. Introduction to Job Interviews

The Role of Job Interviews: Job interviews are designed to evaluate a candidate’s skills, experience, and cultural fit within an organisation.

The interview, 1-2-1, panel interview, or more recently video interview – the traditional question and answer job interview format, are used across various industries and at all job levels, for part or full time positions, and for low-level to high-level job roles.

Types of Job Interviews: Interviews can be structured (formal), semi-structured, or unstructured (informal).

Structured interviews, where each candidate is asked the same set of questions and scored against a pre-written scoring criteria, are often found to be more reliable and valid predictors of job performance compared to unstructured interviews.

2. Structured vs. Unstructured Interviews

Research on Structured Interviews:

  • A comprehensive review by Huffcutt and Arthur (1994) found that structured interviews are significantly more reliable than  a unstructured recruitment process.
  • The structured interview reduces the variability in interviewers’ ratings and enhance the objectivity of the hiring process.
  • McDaniel et al. (1994) conducted a meta-analysis showing that structured interviews have higher predictive validity for job performance.

Advantages of Structured Interviews:

  • Consistency: All candidates are evaluated using the same criteria, often using as coring system, making the process fairer.
  • Reliability: Structured interviews provide consistent results over time.
  • Legal Defensibility: They are less likely to be challenged in court as they adhere to standardized procedures.

Challenges with Unstructured Interviews:

  • Bias: Unstructured interviews are prone to interviewer biases, such as halo effects or similarity-attraction biases.
  • Inconsistency: Different interviewers may focus on different aspects of the candidate’s responses, leading to inconsistent evaluations.

3. Biases in Job Interviews

Gender and Racial Bias:

  • Research by Koch, D’Mello, and Sackett (2015) highlights the persistent issue of gender bias in interviews, where women are often rated lower than men for the same qualifications.
  • Studies on racial bias, such as those by Bertrand and Mullainathan (2004), demonstrate that candidates with ethnic-sounding names are less likely to receive callbacks for interviews, indicating a systemic bias in the hiring process.

Strategies to Mitigate Bias:

  • Structured Interviews: As previously mentioned, structured interviews help mitigate biases by standardizing questions and evaluation criteria.
  • Training: Interviewer training programs can raise awareness about unconscious biases and provide strategies to reduce their impact.
  • Blind Hiring: Removing identifiable information (e.g., names, gender) from applications can help ensure candidates are evaluated based on their qualifications alone.

4. Applicant Reactions to Interview Formats

Perceptions of Fairness:

  • Research by Bauer et al. (2001) shows that candidates perceive structured interviews as fairer and more job-related than unstructured interviews.
  • Fairness perceptions are crucial as they can influence a candidate’s willingness to accept a job offer and their overall view of the organization.

Candidate Experience:

  • Chapman and Zweig (2005) found that a positive interview experience can enhance a candidate’s attraction to the organization. This includes clear communication, respectful treatment, and timely feedback.

Impact on Diversity and Inclusion:

  • Structured interviews can support diversity and inclusion efforts by providing a level playing field for all candidates.
  • Studies like those by Ployhart and Holtz (2008) suggest that when properly implemented, structured interviews can help organizations build a more diverse workforce.

5. Behavioral and Situational Interviews

Behavioral Interviews:

  • Based on the premise that past behavior predicts future performance, behavioral interviews ask candidates to describe previous experiences related to job competencies.
  • Taylor and Small (2002) found that behavioral interviews are effective in predicting job performance and reducing biases.

Situational Interviews:

  • Situational interviews present candidates with hypothetical scenarios and ask how they would handle them.
  • Latham and Sue-Chan (1999) suggest that these interviews are particularly useful for assessing problem-solving skills and judgment.

Comparative Effectiveness:

  • A meta-analysis by Huffcutt, Conway, Roth, and Stone (2001) indicates that both behavioral and situational interviews have strong predictive validity, with slight differences depending on the job context and competencies being assessed.
Evolve the mind book on Amazon

6. Technological Advances in Job Interviews

Video Interviews:

  • The rise of video interview platforms has transformed the recruitment landscape. Research by Chapman and Webster (2003) highlights the convenience and cost-effectiveness of video interviews, though they may present challenges such as technical issues and reduced personal interaction.
  • Covid impacted the commonality use of video interviews which are now viewed as the norm.

AI and Automation:

  • AI-driven interview tools are increasingly being used to assess candidates’ responses and non-verbal cues.
  • Studies like those by Chamorro-Premuzic et al. (2016) emphasize the potential of AI to enhance objectivity, though ethical considerations and transparency are critical.

Virtual Reality (VR) Interviews:

  • Emerging technologies like VR are being explored for immersive interview experiences.
  • Slater and Sanchez-Vives (2016) suggest that VR can provide realistic job previews and assess candidates in simulated environments.

Conclusion

The familiar question and answer type Job interview remains a fundamental part of the hiring process, with ongoing research continually enhancing our understanding of best practices to support hiring managers to recruit the most suitable candidate.

Structured interviews, awareness of biases, positive candidate experiences, and technological innovations are key factors that contribute to more effective and equitable hiring decisions. By incorporating insights from scholarly research, organizations can improve their interview processes , leading to better hiring outcomes and a more diverse and competent workforce.

References

  • Bauer, T. N., Truxillo, D. M., Paronto, M. E., Weekley, J. A., & Campion, M. A. (2001). Applicant reactions to different selection procedures: Are applicants more favorable to face-to-face interviews?
  • Bertrand, M., & Mullainathan, S. (2004). Are Emily and Greg more employable than Lakisha and Jamal? A field experiment on labor market discrimination.
  • Chapman, D. S., & Zweig, D. I. (2005). Developing a nomological network for interview structure: Antecedents and consequences of the structured selection interview.
  • Huffcutt, A. I., & Arthur, W. Jr. (1994). Hunter and Hunter (1984) revisited: Interview validity for entry-level jobs.
  • McDaniel, M. A., Whetzel, D. L., Schmidt, F. L., & Maurer, S. D. (1994). The validity of employment interviews: A comprehensive review and meta-analysis.
  • Taylor, P. J., & Small, B. (2002). Asking applicants what they would do versus what they did do: A meta-analytic comparison of situational and past behavior employment interview questions.
  • Koch, A. J., D’Mello, S. D., & Sackett, P. R. (2015). A meta-analysis of gender stereotypes and bias in experimental simulations of employment decision making.
  • Chris Delaney (2021) Book: What is your interview identity
Posted on

The Best Way To Interview

The wrong hiring decision can cost an organisation, not only financially – A study conducted by the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM), found that is can cost up to five times a bad hire’s annual salary, but also productively: Research into the positive and negative effects of recruitment at the National Business Research Institute (NBRI) found that  37% of bad hires affected employee morale and 18% of employers found that a bad hire had a direct negative impact on client relationships

The number one reason for bad hiring practices is an employer’s job interview process. This includes a lack of due diligence, interviewers’ assumptions and unconscious biases, and, offering roles based on the applicant’s personality (the nice person) rather than the interviewee’s competences.

Tweaking the interview process is easy to implement and will have a positive impact on future hires.

These 5 job interview steps will help you make the best hire.  

  1. Implement a structured job interview

Much research proves how a structured job interview over an informal job interview improves the rate of a positive hire.

  • A structured job interview is the process of asking job interview questions that have a direct relevance to the job role – this sounds obvious, but during an informal job interview it is easy for the conversation (which is unplanned and more free-flowing) to go off on a tangent.
  • Each job applicant is asked the same, on average 8-10, job interview questions.
  • All questions are marked on a pre-agreed grading system. Each grade will have a list of criteria the interviewee must cover during their interview answer to receive a particular score.
  • This logical approach results in the highest-scoring person being offered the job role.
  1. Have multiple interview rounds (for higher-paid roles)

Commonly, an interview panel (2-3 interviewers) conduct the job interview. The idea behind this practice is designed to create a fair process, as each interviewer individually scores each applicant, before comparing scores.

One issue with the interview panel is that people will often alter their allocated scores based on what the (natural) group leader decides. In short, humans make judgements based on what they believe other people want to hear. Psychologically, people never want to be seen by others as doing something ‘wrong’ even a personal judgment.

Multiple interview rounds delivered by different hiring managers, especially for senior roles and high-paid positions, result in a better hire – a better higher is the applicant’s actually ability to perform well once employed. This is due to similar questions being asked in several structured job interviews (and often one informal job interview and/or assessment round) by various professionals who can review interview answers from different perspectives.

  1. Spread interviews out

Most organisations during the recruitment window will offer interviews to candidates over the short period of 1-2 days. On average 8 people are offered job interviews for every advertised position, with each interview lasting around 45-60 mins. This back-to-back recruitment practice is tiring for the interview panel, which can negatively affect the decision-making process.

The solution is to have one, or maybe two interviews scheduled a day with flexibility between interviewees to allow, if needed, an interview to run over. Asking additional questions to gather more information and details, rather than sticking strictly to the initial set of questions can ‘open up’ an applicant allowing the interview panel to more easily predicted that persons job performance, and fit within the team.

Asking ‘what was your role in that example?’ or ‘ how did you come to that solution?’ or ‘what mistakes did you make before you were successful?’ to a pre-set interview question gathers more intelligence.

  1. Give a task

They say a picture paints a thousand words. But if you talk the talk can you walk the walk?

For many job roles, a key part of the required task will be a particular action; from writing risk assessments to completing calculations, from problem-solving to selling, from cooking to code-breaking. If the main task is something that can be tested, test it.

Set the task in real conditions, using a task the applicant would be doing once employed, and check their ability to complete the required job duties.

Evolve the mind book on Amazon
  1. Think about the team culture

A new hire can make or break an existing team. Hiring a new employee can add some spice to the team, creating a new energy, new motivation, and a new purpose. Famously the difference between Steve Jobs being rehired at Apple compare to the period when Jobs wasn’t employed was the difference in why we still view Apple products as a consumer favorite.

One of the interview stages must be questions to review the employee’s temperament and to match that to the team culture. Team culture interview questions can include:

  • Are you a goal or problem-orientated person?
  • Do you work better within a team or on your own?
  • What motivates you the most, starting or finishing a task?
  • What’s the most important thing to you in a job?
  • How do you describe your role within a team?

Recruitment has changed over the past 10 years, career professionals are more likely to quit than to work in a job they dislike, many employees job-hop every 3-5 years, and first-choice hires will decline not only job offers but job interviews if they deem them not worthy. The job interview itself is one of the ways an applicant will decide of they are likely to take an offered role. As well as having to balance the design of the recruitment process to be seen as a good hire, employers must think about an interview process that ensures they hire an individual that will not only fit within their existing team but that will add value to the organisation.

The 5 step interview process

Implementing the 5 simple interview steps; a structured multiple-round job interview, within team, and job-directed questions over a period of time allows an employer the time and space to recruit someone worthy of their advertised salary.

In a job interview, positive body language complements verbal communication and significantly impacts how you are perceived by interviewers.

Demonstrating confidence, professionalism, active engagement, and genuine interest through your non-verbal cues can leave a lasting impression and differentiate you from other candidates.

Remember to maintain eye contact, use appropriate hand gestures, and be mindful of your posture throughout the interview. A warm and genuine smile can convey enthusiasm and likability. By mastering positive body language, you enhance your chances of success in job interviews and project yourself as the ideal candidate for the role.

Posted on

Free Online Job Interview Course

The free 6-part online job interview course will help you gain the skills and knowledge to be successful in the recruitment process.

Each module is designed to build upon the last, increasing your likelihood of gaining more job offers. The course has been designed and created by Author and Interview Coach Chris Delaney.

The course will help you to pass more job interviews and make you more confident at ‘selling’ yourself

  • Become skilled at communicating your competencies confidently – this creates a higher score on the interview scorecard increasing the number of job offers you can receive
  • Learn how to relax before a job interview, giving you the confidence to share your knowledge and expertise during the recruitment process – be the best version of yourself in the job interview
  • Gain the knowledge to sell yourself. We will share interview answer structures, rapport-building techniques and explain what the employer wants to hear during the job interview – you will learn the psychology of the interview process

The course will ignore the basic advice that can be found on a million websites; research the company, prepare for the interview, and have a good night’s sleep. Instead, the course curriculum is based on the findings from a number of job interview academic research papers and psychology findings, to help the savvy interviewee to stand out from the crowd.

The three rules for a successful job interview outcome are:

  1. Identify the job criteria
  2. Be a self-promoter
  3. Communicate with confidence

A published author, job interview trainer, and interview coach, Chris Delaney, will share his 20 years of experience to help you improve your job interview performance. Chris Delaney specialises in advanced job interview techniques, and as a hypnotherapist, helps clients overcome their job interview fears and anxiety.

Identify the job criteria

  • Learn how to predict the job interview questions
  • Learn how to structure any interview answer
  • Learn how to take advantage of the structured job interview

Be a self-promoter

  • Learn how language can impact the interview outcome
  • Learn how the interviewer perceives you – take the interview identity test
  • Learn how to sell yourself with each interview answer

Communicate with confidence

  • Overcome interview anxiety quickly
  • Increase communication confidence in face-to-face and virtual job interviews
  • Build rapport with interviewers to increase likeability

Chris will share research on the job interview process and explain the hidden psychology in play that neither the applicant nor the interviewer is aware of, and how you can use this knowledge to your advantage.

Understand:

  • How unconscious bias affects the interview scorecard
  • What ‘what is beautiful is good’ bias is and how to use positive generalisations for your benefit
  • Why a structured interview is better placed to predict job performance than an unstructured job interview and how to win in a structured interview recruitment process

The ideal way to use this course is to watch each video in order, one video per week. The duration between the course modules allows students to practice the techniques described within the course helping the participant to increase their job interview skill set.

Module 1 – What Creates a Successful Job Interview Outcome?

Learn about the structure of a job interview, what makes a high-scoring interview answer, and the three rules for a successful job interview.

The module will also teach you how to speak more confidently, especially during a job interview presentation.

Module 2 – Unconcious Bias

Learn how unconscious bias affects all job interviews, the common types of biases within recruitment, and the power of a positive bias.

Module 3 – Understanding the Interviewer’s Behavior

Learn how the interviewer’s behavior affects the applicant’s interview, how an alfa interviewer needs winning over, and the power of a self-fulfilling prophecy

Module 4 – What Is Your Interview Identity?

Learn how an interview panel views the applicant (their interview identity) based on your perceived knowledge and confidence during the job interview.

Module 5 – Improve Your Interview Identity

Learn how to improve your interview identity, how to overcome anxiety when speaking in public, and what you can do to improve your level of job interview confidence

Module 6 – Interview Questions and Answers

Learn what type of interview questions you will be asked during the job interview, how to predict the job interview questions, and how to sell yourself throughout the job interview.

Also, learn what makes a high-scoring job interview answer that will result in more job offers.

The ‘what is your interview identity’ book is available from Amazon:

Posted on

Positive Body Language in a Job Interview: How Non-Verbal Cues Can Make a Lasting Impression

A job interview is a crucial opportunity to showcase the required skills, experiences, and personality traits, that meet the requirements of the job criteria, to a potential employer.

While verbal communication (including words, volume, and tonality) plays a significant role in landing a job offer, it is essential not to overlook the power of non-verbal cues, particularly body language.

Body language refers to gestures, facial expressions, and physical cues displayed by an individual – stance, how you hold your head, and the position you take when sitting in a chair.

Positive (or open) body language can enhance your chances of success in a job interview by conveying confidence, professionalism, and a genuine interest in the role. This is because an interviewee who feels confident will express their confidence levels in their body language.

At the subconscious level, the interviewer will believe the applicant is relaxed, open, approachable, and confident. Positive and open body language creates rapport and trust, and tells the recruiter that the individual in front of them is suitable for the role.

In turn, the interview panel, through the candidate’s non-verbal ques also feels at ease during the interview process, which leads to individual interviewers asking more follow-up questions and scoring interview answers high due to the positive outcome of the halo effect.

The Impact of Body Language in Job Interviews

The key to positive interview body language is creating the impression of a confident and competent potential employee.

Ideally, the two Cs impression – confidence and competence should be natural. After all, the recruitment process is about asking the applicant questions about their own experiences and their knowledge.

In reality, most job hunters create an ‘all or nothing’ scenario – ‘if I don’t pass the job interview my life is over!!!!’ creating excessive levels of stress which leads to memory loss, short stumbling answers, and an increase in filler words and self-disclosed weaknesses.

Research from Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist and professor at Harvard University, who became famous for giving a Ted Talk on ‘your body language may shape who you are’ shows how body language links to hormone levels and our emotional reactions.

When body language is open, testosterone (dominance hormone) goes up, and cortisol (stress hormone) reduces.

Stress, naturally, makes people close up – making ourselves look smaller. Job applicants see this all the time in the job interview waiting room, with nervous candidates crossing their arms, tucking their feet under the chair, head down, and touching the neck or face. These stress-related gestures cause our testosterone to decrease and cortisol levels to rise. 

Amy also found that standing in a positive and confident stance, even for a few minutes, can boost feelings of confidence, and might have an impact on our chances for success.

The confident stance technique also works when standing in a posture of confidence, even when you don’t feel confident.

Conveying Confidence and Professionalism

Positive body language exudes confidence and professionalism, two traits highly valued by employers.

More important, is how the non-verbal confident body language improves verbal communication.

The research undertaken by Amy found that after just a few minutes of holding a power postures (such as standing tall with your feet apart, chest open, and hands on your hips) people feel more confident and are more likely to act bolder than they would when stood within a stress posture.

In short, the body (stand confident) can influence the mind (feel confident), just as the mind (feel anxious) can influence the body (stress posture).

A firm handshake, maintaining eye contact, and sitting up straight signal that you are self-assured and capable. This can make a strong first impression and instill trust in your abilities.

Active Listening and Engagement

Active listening during a job interview is crucial to demonstrate your interest in the conversation, and therefore the job role.

Nodding occasionally, leaning slightly forward, and providing attentive facial expressions indicate that an applicant is actively processing the information being shared.

Confident individuals listen naturally, whereas a nervous job applicant worries about how they will be viewed, instead of active listening, will go inside themselves to think about a potential answer.

In any conversation, a person with high self-esteem will listen, think, and then speak. This is an external focus, compared to the internal focus of a stressed individual.

Listening, thinking, and speaking, create natural pauses during the two-way conversation. Again, the pauses created by a confident communicator signal confidence to the individuals on the interview panel.

Active Listening Creates Rapport

Listening is a key part of communication. Confident communication builds rapport, and rapport creates trust.

One way to check that an employer has favored an applicant is by observing both the applicant’s and the interviewer’s body language.

If the interviewer naturally starts to mimick the interviewee’s gestures (subtly mimicking their posture or hand movements) this is a sign that a strong rapport has been created.

Purposely mirroring the interviewer’s body language can also build rapport as the mirroring of movements creates a sense of familiarity and likability, fostering a positive impression.

In the main, body language should reflect the applicant’s enthusiasm for the job role. Using hand gestures to express your points, maintaining a warm and approachable facial expression, and leaning in when discussing exciting aspects of the role can highlight your genuine interest.

Someone with a real passion for the sector and job role will smile more; A warm and genuine smile can work wonders in a job interview and create a positive and memorable experience. Research has found that smiling conveys a positive attitude, approachability, and likeability. It helps build rapport with the interviewer

Evolve the mind book on Amazon

In a job interview, positive body language complements verbal communication and significantly impacts how you are perceived by interviewers.

Demonstrating confidence, professionalism, active engagement, and genuine interest through your non-verbal cues can leave a lasting impression and differentiate you from other candidates.

Remember to maintain eye contact, use appropriate hand gestures, and be mindful of your posture throughout the interview. A warm and genuine smile can convey enthusiasm and likability. By mastering positive body language, you enhance your chances of success in job interviews and project yourself as the ideal candidate for the role.

Posted on

Unveiling the Hidden Bias in Job Interviews: A Quest for Fairness and Diversity

Job interviews serve as critical gateways to employment opportunities, helping employers assess the skills and qualifications of potential candidates, while at the same time, allowing job applicants to showcase their suitability for the advertised job position.

However, beneath the seemingly objective facade of a fair interview lies the lurking shadow of bias, which can significantly impact hiring decisions.

Unconscious biases, stemming from preconceived notions and stereotypes, may inadvertently influence interviewers’ scores given to each job applicant.

This subconscious manipulation of interview data can often lead to the most suitable interviewee not being offered the role. This is because, the brain, to save time and energy, doesn’t allocate the same level of attention to each decision.

Understanding biases, how there are formed, and the various types of unconscious biases, can help foster a more inclusive and diverse workforce, who possess the required skills, qualities, and experiences required for a competitive organisation.

Understanding Bias in Job Interviews

Much research has shown how a structured job interview, the asking of predetermined interview questions to all candidates, with answers being assessed against a scoring criteria, is the best way to predict the job performance of each job applicant.

The flaw in the system is humans’ natural shortcut to decision-making, using generalisations, stereotypes, and beliefs based on previous experiences, which we call unconscious bias.

Bias refers to the inclination or prejudice towards specific individuals or groups, often stemming from implicit assumptions or stereotypes rather than objective judgment.

In a job interview, biases can arise from a myriad of factors, such as gender, race, ethnicity, age, appearance, and even the candidate’s surname. Other influencers include subtle aspects like accents, mannerisms, the interviewee’s choice of outfit, their perceived attractiveness (what is beautiful is good bias), or their confidence level.

Biases can lead to unfair treatment, discriminatory practices, and the exclusion of qualified candidates from job opportunities. This not only hampers individual career growth but also perpetuates inequalities in the workplace.

The average cost of a bad hire is up to 30% of the employee’s first-year earnings.

Source: Apollo Technical

Different Forms of Bias in Job Interviews

Halo and Horn Effect

The halo effect occurs when one positive attribute or impression about a candidate influences the interviewer’s perception of their other qualities.

Conversely, the horn effect works oppositely, wherein one negative attribute overshadows the candidate’s positive traits.

An example of the halo effect is when a job applicant has recorded the name of a prestigious university they attended on an application form. The interviewers short cut is ‘name of the prestigious university = intelligence’

This bias could be true, the candidate who attended a well-known higher education establishment may well have gained high grades, but without further inquiry, the truth could be much different:

  1. the applicant may have failed the exams
  2. the qualification is in an unrelated industry
  3. the student may have only just passed the qualification

A late interviewee could be affected by the ‘horns effect’. Being late for an interview is seen as a huge negative: ‘if you can’t turn up on time for an interview, then you are likely to be late once employed’.

Is a late applicant always a bad worker? What if the lateness was caused by an unlikely situation, like a crash on the motorway which resulted in the police closing down the motorway, does the ‘lateness equals a poor worker’ still apply?

Similarity Bias

The likability factor of a candidate increases if an interviewer finds a similarity between themselves and the applicant.

Similarity bias is common as humans create ‘in and out’ groups, and those that are in are in because they possess a similarity to the interviewer.

Humans are highly motivated to see themselves and those who are similar in a favorable light.

Source: neuroleadership

Interviewers may favor candidates who share similar backgrounds and experiences, inadvertently sidelining candidates from diverse backgrounds.

Similarities can include:

  • Sense of humor
  • Similar in appearance
  • Thought processes/belief systems
  • Cultural
  • Hobbies and interest

When it comes to the similar-to-me effect, this prototype is often our perception of ourselves. For example, if you wear glasses and believe that you are intelligent, when you see someone wearing glasses, you will think that they seem intelligent.

Source: the decision lab

Confirmation Bias

Once an opinion has been made, it is hard for that person to change their outlook.

Interviewers with a strong belief ‘this person doesn’t seem suitable for the role’ will, according to confirmation bias, seek information that confirms their preconceived notions about candidates’ abilities, rather than making an objective evaluation from their interview answers.

Confirmation bias in a job interview can be positive or negative, depending on the employer’s initial appraisal of the candidate which includes information from the Halo or Horns effect, similarity bias, and stereotypes.

Philosophers note that people have difficulty processing information in a rational, unbiased manner once they have developed an opinion about an issue

Source: britannica

Unconscious Stereotypes

Stereotypes, deeply ingrained in societal norms, can seep into the interviewer’s judgment, affecting the assessment of candidates from different demographic groups.

As an example, careers can be gender biased. The unconscious stereotype is ‘men or women are better suited to a particular job role’.

There is a general consensus in managerial and sociological research that certain occupations are gendered. For example, public relations, nursing, and teaching are considered “female-gendered” occupations, whereas stock trading, engineering, and construction are considered “male-gendered” occupations. 

Gender and the Economy

Even when an interviewer doesn’t truly believe the stereotype, the ingrained belief system has a subconscious influence on the employer’s decision-making process.

As mentioned previously, the structured job interview, the set of predetermined interview questions that are scored against set criteria, is easily influenced.

It’s common for the scoring process to be on a scale, let’s say a scale of 1-4, with points being the highest scoring answer, the answer that meets the job criteria in full.

Biases and stereotypes can influence the allocated score. If two applicants, one male, and one female, apply for a perceived masculine or feminine job role, the interviewer is likely to score the same answer one point higher or lower than the applicant with the opposite gender.

As the three highest-scoring interviews only have one or two points between them, being scored higher or lower for even one interview answer can be a deciding factor in who is offered the vacant position.

Mitigating Bias in Job Interviews

Many organisations are working hard to overcome the recruitment bias problem. Initially, human resource teams undertook mandatory unconscious bias training, which didn’t have a positive effect

The evidence against unconscious bias training is mounting. One recent meta-analysis of over 490 studies found that whilst training might raise awareness in a couple of weeks following, it did not lead to long-lasting behavioural change.

Fair HQ
Evolve the mind book on Amazon

Other research shows that voluntary attendance at unconscious bias training had a better outcome.

Instead, employers reflected on their interview processes and found ways to remove potential bais from the recruitment system.

  1. Standardize the Interview Process

As previously discussed, the most common form of the interview process is the structured interview format with a set of predetermined questions, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated based on the same criteria.

Previous to this, and still used in many organizations, is the ‘informal’ job interview. Asking ad-hoc questions to ‘get to know’ the applicant, and their values, behaviors, and temperament.

Much research has concluded that the most accurate way to predict the performance of potential employees is via the structured job interview.

  1. Blind Application

Conduct “blind” interviews by removing identifying information like names, gender, and educational institutions from job application forms.

The ‘blind’ application removes the halo and horns effect that could be created from the name of a university, the applicant’s age, or any commonality with the interviewer.

Having a ‘blind’ application allows the interview panel to focus solely on candidates’ qualifications, experiences, and qualities for the advertised job role.

In some companies, the person interviewing the applicant is different from the staff member who read and approved the job application forms.

  1. Diverse Interview Panels

Form diverse interview panels to bring a range of perspectives and reduce the influence of individual biases.

In large organizations, it’s common to have three or four interview rounds, where similar questions are asked by different interviewers. The interview answers, from all the interview rounds, are then analyzed and reviewed.

  1. Interview Times

The timing of the interview influences the interview outcome. Interviewers are tired at the end of a long day of interviewing or commonly feel more drained after dinner. To overcome the time problem, interviewers can interview just two applicants a day over a 5 day period instead of squeezing 10 interviews into one day of interviewing.

Another helpful solution is interviewing practice. Many interviewers are untrained and nervous. The first interviewee is affected by this, as the interview panel is less familiar with the interview questions at the start of a day of interviewing.

The number of follow-up questions, or their natural process for scoring the applicants, differs from the first to the last interview. Being able to practice asking structured job interview questions helps improve confidence through familiarity.

Periodically review and update interview practices, aligning them with the organization’s diversity and inclusion goals.

Recognizing and confronting bias in job interviews is crucial to building an inclusive and diverse workforce.

By understanding the different forms of bias, implementing strategies to mitigate its influence, and redefining the hiring process, organizations can pave the way for fairer, more equitable hiring practices.

Embracing diversity not only enriches the workplace but also fosters innovation, creativity, and ultimately, success for businesses in the ever-evolving global landscape.

Posted on

Mastering Asynchronous Video Interviews: Your Guide to Landing Your Dream Job

In the rapidly evolving landscape of job interviews, the latest craze in recruitment is asynchronous video interviews (AI bot online interviews).

Asynchronous video interviews (AVIs) have emerged as a popular screening method due to the low cost, compared to human intervention, for choosing suitable applicants from the thousands of job seekers that apply for the advertised job role.

This new recruitment technology allows an interviewee to record a live response to, on average , three behavioral-based job interview questions via a video portal.

For the applicant, the advantage is that they are allowed to record their interview answers at their convenience during a short period of two to three days. One applicant might complete their AVI at 09:00 am and another at 3:00 pm. As there is no human intervention from the employer’s side, interviews no longer need to take place during working hours.

However, navigating asynchronous video interviews requires a strategic approach to leave a lasting impression and increase your chances of landing that dream job. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of asynchronous video interviews and provide valuable tips to help you shine in your next AI Bot online interview.

Understanding Asynchronous Video Interviews

What are Asynchronous Video Interviews?

Asynchronous video interviews is an online video interview with an AI interface. Candidates will open a recruitment webpage, sign in, and, using their video camera, participate in the interview.

The AI bot will, using text or audio, state a job interview question, before allowing a set duration for the applicant to record their interview answer. The duration is around 60-120 seconds.

Once the duration is up for each individual interview question, the AI bot will then move to the next interview question, even if the interviewee hasn’t finished speaking – so preparing and practicing short and succinct interview answers is a must.

Unlike traditional interviews, there is no real-time interaction with a human interviewer, making it more flexible and convenient for candidates.

It is also useful to understand the company’s values, mission, and recent achievements, as well as the responsibilities and requirements of the position. But, at this stage of the recruitment process, the AVI interview questions are normally based on the job role rather than questions around knowing the organization’s history or business objectives.

The Advantages of Asynchronous Video Interviews

Time Flexibility:

Candidates can choose when to record their responses, accommodating their schedules and allowing them to perform at their best. This can be morning, afternoon, or night. During a working day, bank holiday, or weekend, as long as it is within the time frame the employer sets out.

Location Independence:

Asynchronous video interviews eliminate the need for candidates to travel, enabling them to interview from anywhere with a stable internet connection.

Location independence also allows job hunters to attend the AVI even if they are holidaying abroad.

Preparing for an Asynchronous Video Interview

Research the Company and Job Role

Interview preparation is key when attending an AVI.

Begin your preparation by conducting thorough research on the company and the specific job role you are applying for.

Remember, in the main, an AVI is a screening interview. Successful candidates, once they pass the AVI stage will be asked to attend a structured job interview. You can predict what type of interview stages you will be asked to attend here.

Familiarize Yourself with the Technology

Ensure that you are comfortable with the video interview platform and its features.

Prior to the job interview, it is key to test your microphone, camera, and internet connection to avoid technical glitches during the actual interview.

The most important piece of advice to help prepare for an AVI, is to practice online AI interviews. There are many websites that offer free AI mock interviews that give you instant feedback, including one on Linked-in and Google.

As the saying goes practice makes perfect. For candidates who need more specific advice to pass the job interview, you can book an online (human) interview coach.

Create a Suitable Interview Setting

Choose a quiet and well-lit location for recording your responses.

Ensure that the background is free from distractions and presents a professional image.

Close down any other apps to reduce sound interference. An example of this is the ‘ping’ noise you hear when receiving a new email.

Ensure no one will walk into the room unannounced.

Think about the camera frame, ideally, use a shoulder-to-head frame. For more online interview tips click here.

Dress Professionally

Treat an asynchronous video interview like an in-person meeting and dress appropriately.

Wearing professional attire will help you feel more confident and leave a positive impression. Much research has looked at how dressing smart increases confidence.

Even though the AVI AI bot can be programmed to review eye contact, tonality, and even the candidate’s background, in most cases hiring decisions are based on the interview answer, not appearances.

Mastering Your Responses

Evolve the mind book on Amazon

Analyze the Questions Carefully

To pass any job interview a job applicant needs to follow the three rules for a successful interview.

Rule 1 – identify the job criteria

Rule 2 – be a self-promoter

Rule 3 – communicate with confidence

Read the job profile questions thoroughly and use the essential criteria, and your understanding of the job role, to help predict the potential job interview questions.

By understanding what the employer is looking for, a n interviewee can tailor each response in a self-promoting way.

Use the STAR or SAP Method

For behavioral questions, use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or SAP (Situation, Actions, Positive Outcome) method to structure your responses effectively.

These interview answer structures, help applicants to create a concise and compelling story that showcases their abilities and accomplishments.

Having a simple structure during an AVI is important as the interview example is delivered in a logical format, and is easy to prepare and deliver within the set timeframe given for answering each question.

Be Concise and Engaging

As with all communication, be clear and to the point.

Avoid rambling or going off-topic, and reduce the use of filler words, and the number of times you stutter.

Practice diction, to ensure the AVI AI bot can clearly understand the words you are using.

Reviewing and Submitting Your Video Interview

In most cases, the candidate doesn’t have an opportunity to review their answers before submitting them. Some organizations do allow this, if this is the case, carefully review your recorded answers and edit any mistakes or areas for improvement. Ensure that your responses are well-polished and align with the desired message.

When starting the AVI, there is normally a chance for a practice interview question and answer (within the set timeframe) before moving on to the actual interview.

Use the practice session to check the audio, video, and communication issues (filler words etc) and keeping to the interview answer duration.

Follow Submission Guidelines

Adhere to the provided instructions for submitting your video interview. Double-check the deadline and ensure you complete all necessary steps.

Conclusion

By mastering the art of asynchronous video interviews and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can confidently approach your next job interview and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Embrace the flexibility, leverage your research and preparation, and let your authentic self shine through the lens. Remember the AVI is a screening interview so, in the main, there are no complicated questions.