Handle a RUDE interviewer like a pro!!
Not all interviews are created equal. Each one offers up a new and unique experience to test our skills, our ability to have poise under pressure, and fit within that given job's role.
...but what do you do when you arrive and the interviewer is rude to you? Maybe they gave you the cold shoulder when you bounced in and eagerly greeted them, or perhaps they are giving you some serious attitude. Here is how to handle the situation and keep your cool!
1- Deep breaths. If you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed or agitated just take a moment to compose yourself before you say something you regret.
2- Watch your words. Don’t let the interviewer push you over the edge and have you say things that you may regret later. Remain positive and upbeat! Remember that the job network is smaller than you realize and people do talk. What you say could carry with you into your next job interview!
3- Remain confident. The interviewer may just be having a terrible day and dealing with things outside of work that you have no control over (such as a sick child). It isn’t right of them to take anything out on you personally, but it does happen so just stay strong, sit up higher and maintain great eye contact.
4- Make small talk. Throughout the interview try to work in some small talk to build a rapport and have them know you are more than just a candidate, you are also a person they want to work with.
5- Finish strong. Nail your interview questions, be the amazing person you are and know that this probably isn’t about you.
If you go for a return interview and the same type of thing happens again then this job’s culture may not be the job for you and that’s very common. It is better to know now than to be hired and then leave later and have to start the process all over again.
Remember that interviewers are people too. They are not perfect, but you can be the better person by staying strong, smiling and being personable. Remind them of why they should hire you and shake off all the negativity!
Have you tried any of these tips successfully in the past?
My favorite quote totally applies here!
I once was on an interview where the woman interviewing me smack dab in the middle of the interview just started to kind of stare at my pants (AWKWARD!!!!) She then suddenly tells me that my suit doesn't match my pants and that I looked like a slob. I told her that I bought the suit specially for this interview and I was sorry she felt that way and politely excused myself and left. I didn't want to work for someone who would be THAT critical of what I wore. Oh and by the way my pants totally matched, it turned out she was color blind. I received an email apologizing for her comment from the company but at that point the damage had been done. I agree with Ashley in that keeping your cool is a must, but I will add that if you feel uncomfortable it might be best just to excuse yourself, go home and start looking for other opportunities.
A few years ago I kept running into multiple people interviews. The worst was one where they came in two at a time. I had seen four other people, but two more walked in. One person asked me to tell them about a project I had led. I told them about a glove conversion process that had gained business from several large pharma facilities. He said that was the dumbest waste of time he had ever heard. I asked if he was being serious, he said yes. I advised we had made millions of dollars off of that project, I advised he was the most rude interviewer I had ever met, I advised I would not accept that from anyone, I got my belongings, and I told his boss I was leaving, and why. It's been three years now, and every year they call to see if I will reconsider. I thank them, and tell them I have a job with people that treat me with respect. All I am saying, is don't let people abuse you. Above all, keep your pride.
What do you do if an interviewer just straight up makes you feel REALLY uncomfortable?!!! To the point where you are creeped out!