Welcome to the second part of the series on overcoming speaking anxiety for job interviews. In the first part of this series, we discussed strategies to help you prepare and calm your nerves before the interview. In this second part, let’s discuss some of the cultural differences that can unknowingly affect your interview:
Communication style: In the US, and other English speaking nations, interviewers often expect candidates to be direct and assertive in their communication. In the US, we are informal, communicate explicitly, and prefer not to “beat around the bush.” This means, after a little small talk, the interviewer will get right to the point, and will expect you to answer in the same direct manner.
For many cultures outside the US, candidates are expected to use a more indirect communication style. If you are from a culture that values indirect communication, adapting to a more direct communication style can be challenging. However, this is a practicable skill.
- One way to do this is to focus on being concise and clear in your responses while still maintaining a polite and respectful tone.
- Another way is to practice with a friend or mentor who can provide feedback on your communication style.
- You can also watch videos or listen to audio recordings of job interviews to observe how others communicate and pick up useful tips.
Remember that it’s important to find a balance between direct and indirect communication that makes you the most comfortable.
Time management: “To be early is to be on time, and to be on time is to be late.” Punctuality is highly valued, and being on time for an interview is critical. In the US, it is important to be punctual for job interviews, as lateness can be perceived as a lack of professionalism.
Nonverbal cues: Nonverbal cues such as eye contact, facial expressions, body language, and gestures can vary greatly between cultures. In the US, the two most important non-verbal cues in an interview are eye contact and facial expressions.
- Direct eye contact is expected for the majority of any conversation in the US and UK, which can make it uncomfortable for some individuals if eye contact is maintained for too long during an interview. Similarly, a lack of eye contact can convey a message of shyness, anxiety, lack of confidence, dishonesty, or distrust. In some cultures, avoiding eye contact is a sign of respect, and it is seen as a way of showing humility or deference to authority. However, in the US, it can be seen as the opposite. If making eye contact is difficult for you, practice in the mirror and with friends or colleagues before your interview. Additionally, if your interview is online, make sure your camera points directly at your face.
- Facial expressions are an integral part of nonverbal communication, and they can greatly influence how others perceive us during a job interview. A smile and a pleasant face can help to create a positive and approachable impression on the interviewer. A friendly facial expression can also help to establish a connection with the interviewer and build rapport. This can be difficult for some as there are cultures where a smile in an interview is interpreted as a lack of seriousness or professionalism. Although pleasant facial expressions are important, it’s also necessary to maintain a balance to avoid over-exaggerating expressions, as this can come across as insincere or unprofessional. Pay attention to the facial expressions others make. Practice in mirror. Record yourself and watch. This can be helpful in becoming actively aware of your own expressions.
Effective communication is an essential skill for job interviews, and it’s important to be aware of cultural differences in communication styles. Remember to find a balance that works for you and the situation; being comfortable in your interview will make you all the more confident, and that confidence is key to being able to achieve your career goals.
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