[Comprehensive Selection/School Recommendation Selection] Grab your spot! 20 Interview Manners (Part 2)

In this series, we will be sharing information about university entrance exams and universities. Let's learn together.

The theme this time is "[Comprehensive Selection/School Recommendation Selection] Grab your spot! 20 Interview Manners (Part 2)".

We hope you will also refer to our previous articles regarding interview preparation.
[Comprehensive Selection/School Recommendation Selection] Grab your chances! Interview preparation①
[Comprehensive Selection/School Recommendation Selection] Grab your chances! Interview preparation②
[Comprehensive Selection/School Recommendation Selection] Grab your chances! Interview preparation③

Your manners can make a difference in an interview!

[During an interview] Behavior that you should pay more attention to than words

1. 1. Pay attention to the position of your hands!
   Manners differ slightly between men and women. Men should lightly clench their fists and place them on their knees, while women should lightly place their hands on top of each other on their knees. Some students become nervous and tense their hands, causing them to move unconsciously. To the interviewer, this may look like they are "fidgeting," which can be a concern.
2. 2. Show off your confidence with a "straight gaze"!
   When speaking and listening, look directly into the interviewer's eyes (even between the eyebrows or around the nose). This conveys confidence and sincerity. Looking down, wandering eyes, and a restless gaze all negatively impact your impression. Be aware of your own traits.
3. 3. Show your understanding with deep responses!
   When the interviewer is speaking, nod your head slightly to show that you understand. You may not be able to take in what they are saying because you are nervous, but try to understand each point and ask questions to deepen your understanding and be able to answer with confidence.
4. 4. Minimize gestures when speaking!
   Gestures are a sign of enthusiasm, but if they are too big, they can give the impression of being unsettled. If you use them, keep them at chest height. Students who normally use a lot of gestures should be careful. Start by understanding your own habits and being conscious of them.
5. 5. "Don't cross your legs or move them" is basic etiquette!
   Fidgeting is out of the question. Make sure you keep both feet firmly on the floor and try not to move them. Simply placing your heels on the floor will help you stay calm. Pay attention to your sitting posture as well - don't cross your legs, don't sway them, and don't spread them too far apart.

[Exit] Don't let your guard down until the very end

1. 1. Make a lasting impression by bowing before standing up!
   When the interview is over, remain seated, look the interviewer in the eye, say "Thank you," and bow. This is a memorable moment. Surprisingly, many students fail to do this, so be careful.
2. 2. After standing up, bow deeply next to your chair to show your gratitude!
   Stand up, move to the side of your chair, face the interviewer, say "Excuse me," and bow deeply with your back straight. This is the moment when it becomes clear at a glance whether you are not letting your guard down.
3. 3. Turn around and bow again in front of the door!
   Once you reach the door, turn to face the interviewer, bow and say "Excuse me," and then leave the room. Here too, make sure you have time to keep your eyes on the interviewer. Looking down will weaken your impression. Make sure to leave a good impression until the very end.
4. 4. End the meeting with a quiet exit!
   Just as when you entered the room, place your hand on the doorknob and close the door quietly. The most important thing is not to make any noise. Even a simple door can convey your politeness. Be alert until the very end.
5. 5. Maintain good posture until you leave the building!
   Even after leaving the interview room, do not immediately let your guard down. You never know who might be watching you. Maintain your posture until you leave the building. Speaking loudly or slacking off is strictly prohibited. Do your best until the very end as this is an evaluation opportunity.

Mind throughout the series

Summary