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by Carla-Krystin Andrade, for Yahoo! HotJobs
"Be courteous" is a fundamental rule of interviewing. But what do you do when
the interviewer's behavior is offensive? You want to ace the interview and leave
with your self-respect intact. Here are some strategies for responding tactfully
to a discourteous interviewer.
Do a Reality Check
Sometimes we read more into a remark than the interviewer intended because of
the pressure and heightened emotions of an interview. Before you take action,
ask yourself: "Was that really disrespectful?" Some issues are clear-cut, such
as age, religion, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. Others,
unfortunately, are not. If the interviewer's behavior is clearly disrespectful,
then respond with the strategies outlined below. If you're unsure, then put it
aside and continue with your interview.
Decide Whether to Salvage It
You worked hard to land your interview. Your priority is to keep the interview
focused on what you have to offer the company. Take a deep breath and briefly
consider some reasons to make the best of this challenging situation.
You can decide about the company after you complete the interview.
The interviewer doesn't represent the entire company.
The job may not involve working with the interviewer.
This behavior could be part of a "stress interview" in which they test your
response to high-pressure situations.
Get Back on Track
Sure, it's a challenge to stay polite when you're dealing with less-than-polite
behavior. Yet, there's a lot you can do to get your interview back on track.
Be open-minded. The interviewer may recognize the problem with her behavior and
try to fix it.
Ignore the disrespectful comment and talk about your skills.
Ask the interviewer a question that will shift the focus to an area of interest
to him.
Keep your sense of humor and make a light remark.
Ask for feedback or clarification if the interviewer repeatedly contradicts or
interrupts you.
Use "I" statements and be polite when you give the interviewer your opinion.
Know When to Exit
Sometimes a graceful exit is a necessary last resort when you've done everything
you can to save the interview. Thank the interviewer for her time. Then,
politely excuse yourself from the interview without commenting on her behavior.
If you must say something, be courteous.
Learn from Your Experience
Before you put this encounter behind you, identify what you've learned about
this potential coworker. Then use this experience to improve how you respond to
difficult people.
The final step is to practice dealing with negative interview situations with
someone who'll give you honest feedback. In this way, you'll be ready to act
with composure if you ever encounter another disrespectful interviewer.
Since 1989, Dr. Carla-Krystin Andrade has helped job hunters worldwide win jobs
and achieve their career goals through her website, stressfreezone.com, books,
and seminars. Her latest books are "Kick Start Your Job Search, Now!" and "How
to Win the Job Search Game."Tags:
Using Tact With a
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