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Career Advice | Old Etiquette Makes a Comeback

A more competitive employment market means manners are key for a successful interview
Maybe it was all the jobs out there that gave many job seekers the confidence they would have their choice of positions. Or maybe it was the thousands of dot-coms that bragged about a casual dress policy and laid-back office hours.

Whatever it was, the era of the ultra-relaxed job search is coming to an end. And many employers are not happy with the casual attitude that has carried over into today's interviews. Recruiters and employers agree that etiquette has gone downhill fast, with many of today's job seekers displaying bad manners and annoying habits that seriously jeopardize their chance in an increasingly competitive and shrinking job market.

Horror stories abound. What about the candidates who answer cell phone calls mid-interview, wear T-shirts and shorts, or fail to follow-up afterwards? The truth is, many of today's job seekers must have a refresher course in traditional etiquette that has been lost along the way, or they won't even be considered for a position. So, where does etiquette "rehab" begin?

Try following these simple suggestions:
Always research a company before the interview. This is simply a sign that you are interested enough in the position to take some of your own time and learn more. And be sure to take an active role in investigating the company - everything from its leaders to its dress code. This will prepare you not only for the interview, but also what to wear and what to highlight on your resume.

Dress like a professional. Always. No, this does not mean go out and buy a $600, three-piece suit. It means don't show up in sweat pants and a T-shirt. Even if the company does not enforce a dress code, you should still look like a professional. A collared shirt and slacks is often enough to show that you are serious about your job search without making you stick out like a sore thumb in a roomful of staffers wearing jeans and T-shirts.

Respect your interviewer's time. This is a small step that will make you stand out from your peers. Remind yourself throughout the job search process that someone is taking time out of his or her schedule to interview you. Turn off your cell phone during the interview itself, and be sure to promptly respond to any e-mails or phone calls. A busy interviewer will notice and appreciate your respect.

Keep some things to yourself. The job boom in recent years has made candidates feel too relaxed in the interview seat. They've gotten so confident that they share too much with interviewers. Instead of apologizing for a late arrival and getting on with the interview, they brag about their late-night escapades at the local bar. This is an absolute no-no. Keep your personal adventures to yourself, no matter how comfortable you feel with the interviewer. Remember, during an interview you are evaluated on every word you say. Choose them wisely.

Send a thank you note immediately after your interview. You've probably been told to do this a hundred times. But very few people are listening, so take advantage of the fact that you've been reminded once again and do it. Not only will you stand out from the crowd, you'll have the chance to quickly reiterate highlights of the interview or add something you forgot to mention in your earlier discussion. A thank you note says that you value your interviewer's time and really appreciate the fact that they are considering you for the position. Quite simply, it's just plain polite.

Many recruiters and employers agree that more and more job seekers (and the pool continues to grow) will have to pick up on the traditional rules of etiquette to stay competitive. When many candidates have excellent backgrounds and experience, good behavior may make the difference between getting the job and never being called back. So shine your shoes and buy a box of thank you notes--it's time to start practicing the good old job seeker etiquette that used to be routine.

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