The impact of social skills on a candidate’s job search is a topic that is cautiously broached. Many candidates would like to think that their ability to land their next job rests solely on their abilities, experience and knowledge.  To some extent that is true, before the interview.  However, once a candidate has made it to the interview process, they are competing against those who are equally skilled and experienced. During the interview, employers will need to determine how well each candidate will fit into the corporate culture of their company.  That’s where social skills will impact a candidate’s appeal. Social skills are the ability of one person to effectively communicate and interact with others within the confines of the established social rules and practices. Some simply refer to it as etiquette or good manners. Are your social skills up to par?  Let’s take a look at a few social skills you will need while interviewing:

1. The ability to listen and speak at appropriate times during a conversation.  While all of us have quirks, the habit of interrupting others while speaking or failing to listen can sink even the most experienced job candidate during an interview.
2. The ability to use tact when discussing sensitive topics such as why you left your last job.  The interviewer does not need to know every detail of why you left your last position. So instead of saying your former supervisor was a tyrant, it’s better to say that you prefer more autonomy in your work environment.
3. The ability to show interest in what others find important, even if the subject doesn’t exactly excite you.  Note: The habit of yawning during your interviews could definitely add a few months (or years) to your job search.

The list doesn’t stop there. If you want to brush up your manners, take the time to read some articles or a book on etiquette.