When it comes to job interviews, every detail matters, and Robbie Bryant, careers expert at Open Study College in Birmingham, England, has explained that one of the most critical factors is timing.
“Punctuality is a key attribute within any job role,” Bryant told Newsweek. “So being late can show a lack of timekeeping from the candidate, as well as a lack of organizational skills. It may be detrimental to the decision on whether the candidate gets the job role or not.”
Making a lasting impression at an interview can seriously help your chances of securing a job offer at the end of the process. So, when should you arrive to make a good impression?
“Arriving seven minutes early strikes the right balance between showing respect for the interviewer’s time and demonstrating your own time management skills,” Byrant said.
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Research reveals that 30 percent of interviewers make a decision about a candidate within the first five minutes of an interview, while recruitment website Monster.co.uk reported that 96 percent of employers said a candidate’s timekeeping is the number one factor influencing first impressions.
It isn’t just about arrival time, though. Bryant also advises making a direct phone call when you arrive at the interview location, rather than relying on emails or texts.
But what about virtual interviews? More companies are conducting interviews online, but Bryant explained that the rule for arriving early still applies.
“The same principle for in-person interviews should also be applied to video interviews,” he explained. “More often than not, on video interviews, the employer will have to accept the candidate from a ‘virtual’ waiting room, so it’s always good to be there ahead of time, to show the employer that you’re eager and well-prepared for the interview.”
During the interview? It’s all about showing your best side. Byrant suggests researching the company as much as possible. By demonstrating knowledge of a potential employer and recent developments within an organization, candidates can convey genuine interest in a position and the company as a whole.
“Always make sure to reference specific things about the company during the interview to show that you genuinely want to work there,” Bryant explained. “This is something that is often overlooked, or not researched correctly. To the best of your ability, have the most up to date information—LinkedIn is the best tool for this.”
Last year, a recruiter told Newsweek the three lies that everyone should tell during a job interview, while earlier this month another recruiter revealed the big salary negotiation mistakes candidates make during interviews.
Uncommon Knowledge
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.