Last summer, we shared stats from a survey of Eagle’s recruiters identifying “Arrogance” as one of the top traits that drive them nuts in an interview. Other surveys have also revealed that being conceited is a simple way to move onto a recruiter’s do-not-call list.
The challenge with advice like “Don’t be arrogant,” is that people rarely know they’re guilty of it. In fact, in many situations, a recruiter may be mistaking a candidate’s nervousness or confidence for egotism. How, then, can you ensure that in your next interview you appear confident and knowledgeable, but not so over-confident that you shed arrogance? Here are a few areas of focus:
It starts when you walk in the door.
Your body language and other small nuances can affect how clients and recruiters think of you from the moment you arrive. For example:
Arrive early — Failure to arrive on time can send the message that you think your time is more important than theirs.
Dress simply — Of course you need to look professional, but over-dressing can give the wrong impression.
Be aware of body language — Looking somebody in the eyes and smiling (not too much, that’s creepy) goes a long way compared to frowning and looking bored. Remember to pay attention to simple gestures. Pointing or crossing your arms can inadvertently give off a condescending vibe.
Remember names and past discussions — These small talking points show somebody that they’re more than a potential paycheck, but you value the relationship.
Have meaningful 2-way discussions
You and your skills are the topic of the interview, but, as you already know, this meeting isn’t all about you. Show the interviewer you’re not self-centred:
Let them speak — Interrupting an interviewer is insulting, shows little respect, and screams arrogance.
Ask questions — This demonstrates that you’re open to learning new things and that you’re not a “know-it-all.”
Keep it positive — There will be disagreements and clarifications, but disputing everything an interviewer has to say or getting offended too easily will take the interview in the wrong direction.
Avoid overly-technical jargon — Great recruiters understand your skills, but if they knew everything you know, they’d be taking your contracts. Speaking to them too technically can appear as belittling or as an attempt to prove their ignorance.
Sell all dimensions of your experience
You are the common denominator in all of your successes, but you weren’t the only factor. Recruiters and clients know that there’s more to your success than just you, and they want to make sure you know it too.
Give examples of collaboration and team work — Talk about the other people on the team and why they were important.
Give credit to others – It can come across as far-fetched if you were the “hero” on
every
Admit error – It’s also unbelievable that you never made a mistake. Identifying them and explaining how you fixed them is a humbling trait.
Don’t be too humble — Sorry for the contradiction. If you’re
too
humble, an interviewer may read that as fake and forced, trying to hide your arrogance.
Perception is everything. Even the most humble people can appear to be arrogant with the wrong cues, often stemmed by nerves or trying too hard. To simplify this entire article follow this one piece of advice: Always be polite!
These tips can be used in all interviews, with clients and recruiters, as well as meetings with any team. Is there anything you would add? Are there any other clues that cause you to find somebody as arrogant?
