We have all become accustomed to the way in which we interact with each other; everyone is different, everyone has their own ways and means of communicating. However, are we all accustomed to the fact that we each judge each other on the smallest of details?
While the common understanding is that individuals are mainly judged on the content of their conversation and actions, the truth of the matter is, it is only natural to actually judge a person on finer things such as handshakes, body language and other, more subtle traits. Thus, it is absolutely vital that you are constantly aware of any habits and behaviours you exhibit which may lead to a negative judgement of you, and consequently have a negative effect on your career.
Here are five subtle behaviours – through which people will judge you – to pay close attention to.
- Treatment of Wait Staff
The way in which you treat wait staff while waiting to be called to interview is a common behaviour observed by employers to gauge your true character. The interaction you have with others and the impression you leave on them will matter; interviewers will accept this as an accurate portrayal of the way you treat people in general and how your relationships will fare within their business.
- Phone Checking
It seems an obvious point, but in our day and age, it is one being made surprisingly often. When engaging in conversation with others, checking your phone at the same time comes across as rude, and gives a clear indication that you are disinterested and disrespectful. Checking your phone mid-conversation will only send one message – you are not the right candidate for the job, promotion, or otherwise. Avoid this terrible habit at all costs.
- Repetitive Habits
Any behaviour that is repetitive or demonstrates nervousness will become distracting when endeavouring to communicate with another; it will indicate that you are not confident, or worse still, overwhelmed by the situation. Clearly, such behaviour will create a boundary, as well as a lack of trust of capability, between yourself and the person you are most likely trying to impress. Keep nervous habits under control to stop such an outcome.
- The Handshake
We have all heard of this one – the handshake probably forms the sealing of a first impression. You only get one chance at it, so ensure it is a firm, confident one. Weak handshakes denote a lack of confidence and an overall lackadaisical attitude, whereas a strong handshake will lead people to judge you positively as a strong, extroverted individual.
- Eye Contact
Balance is the key when it comes to eye contact; constant eye contact will appear aggressive, confrontational and/or unnerving for the other person, but the correct balance of maintained eye contact will ensure that you appear interested, friendly, and trustworthy – a positive judgement.
More often than not, it is the little things in life that make the biggest difference; do not let them sabotage your career through lack of awareness.