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The do's and don'ts in a job interview with your boss

If you want to come across a bit sharp in your new job, you better prepare well for a one-on-one moment with your boss.

And we know what you should and shouldn't do, according to scientific research, when you're sitting down with your employer:

The don’ts:

  • According to the University of Toronto, your chances of being hired for a new job are 10% smaller if you apply on a rainy day.
  • If you want to say something, just say it. Don't weave a long-winded story around how and what and the past and the future. Your boss is just a human too. So the chances are high that you don't need to be afraid at all about what you want to tell or ask.
  • Don't hide your mistakes. It's more annoying if you act like you're doing everything right when that's not the case, or that you know everything when that's not true. Be honest: you can work on an admitted blunder or mistake. Honesty always takes longer.
  • Don't arrive too early: being half an hour early actually backfires.
  • Researchers say that attention is mainly focused on your cognitive skills and your personality. So try to find a connection with someone, look for personal commonalities to talk about.
  • Don't apply on the same day as your competitor.
  • If you're waiting for your boss, don't look at your phone, don't drink coffee, and don't eat anything. Wait, chat with someone, and keep your hands free so you can introduce yourself right away.
  • Don't place your phone in view and don't look at your watch.
  • A visible piercing or tattoo reduces your chances of getting a job by 76%.

The do’s:

  • The best day and time for an application? Tuesday at 10:30 AM. Not too early, so your employer can start calmly. The beginning of the week, so everyone is still motivated and productive.
  • Smile when you shake hands.
  • Don't accept coffee: your new boss doesn't feel like making that for you.
  • According to a study in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology, vain people perform better in an interview. So go ahead, be confident, wear your best outfit.
  • A study involving 2000 applicants shows that blue and black are the best colors for your clothing.
  • Pressing your fingertips together during the conversation is a sign of confidence.

Oh yes, and leave Google alone. Of all applicants, they only hire 0.2%. The chance that you can study at Harvard is even greater.