Lesson in Industrial/ Organizational Psychology

1. Interview Etiquette and Attire
Prepared by:
Orlando A. Pistan, MAEd-GC
Psychology Instructor

2. What is Etiquette?
Etiquette is a code of
behavior expected in a
certain setting according
to a norm within a group
of society.
It distinguishes human
beings from animals.

3. Job Interview Etiquette
From the moment you
walk into an employer's
office for an interview,
you are being observed.
Your posture, look, voice,
and presence are all
important, and you want
to watch your every move
to leave a great
impression.

4. 1. Once you meet your interviewer, greet with a
FIRM handshake.
This shows confidence and
gives off a sign of top-
quality professionalism.
However, do not
give too strong of a
handshake that hurts your
interviewer.

5. 2. When sitting, cross your ankles and keep your
hands on your lap.
Do not cross your legs,
lean over on the table,
or cross your arms.
Sit up straight, and have
presence!

6. 3. Maintain eye contact and nod your head often.
This shows that you're
paying full attention and
giving your all.

7. 4. Beware of saying too many "um", "like", "uh",
and "you know".
As mentioned on
the interview questions
page, you want to sound
confident and sell
yourself.

8. 5. When you are asked if you have any questions,
definitely ask!
Show genuine interest
and that you want to
learn more. Prepare
your own questions to
ask.

9. 6. At the end of the interview, conclude with
another FIRM handshake, and thank the
interviewer for meeting with you.
It's easy to forget this
last gesture when you
are overwhelmed.
But this portrays real
professionalism and
respect.

10. Proper Attire for Job Interview

11. Proper Attire for Job Interview
Did you know that an
employer will make their first
impression about whether or
not to hire you based on the
first 30 seconds of your
interview?
For this reason, dressing
appropriately and
conservatively for an interview
is vitally important.

12. Proper Attire for Job Interview
Options:
Business Formal
Business Casual

13. Business Formal Attire : Women
 Skirt suit (preferably in a dark color),
which includes knee-length skirt, tailored
jacket, and solid (or subtle patterned)
blouse/top
 Pant suit (preferably in a dark color),
which includes tailored pants and jacket,
and solid (or subtle patterned) blouse/top
 Closed toed shoes with no more than 1-2
inch heels
 Post earrings (not dangling or large),
minimal jewelry such as rings, bracelets,
or necklaces
 Small to medium size purse, along with
portfolio, pen, and extra copies of your
resume
 Subtle make-up
 Avoid strong perfumes

14. Business Formal Attire : Men
 Two-piece, dark (solid color) suit
 White dress shirt and with a white
undershirt underneath
and conservative tie (no bowties,
bright colors, or bold patterns)
 Dark, polished shoes and dark
socks
 Portfolio, pen, and extra copies of
your resume
 Conservative, short haircut;
trimmed facial hair
 Avoid strong perfume
 No extra accessories

15. Business Casual Attire : Women
Jacket, blouse, cardigan, or
conservative top with
pants or a knee-length skirt
Simple, knee-length dress
(nothing low-cut)
Closed or open toed shoes
(no flip flops)
No jeans or casual
sundresses

16. Business Casual Attire : Men
Pants (dark or khaki)
Collared button up shirt
with a white undershirt
underneath or a collared
knit polo shirt
Leather shoes (no sneakers
or flip flops)
No jeans

17. Interview Etiquette and Attire
Thank you for
paying attention.