Dealing with Poor Interviewers

From time to time you may come across an interviewer who is poorly trained or who is just having a bad day. Use these following tips to take control of the situation and turn it to your advantage.

1. The Nervous Interviewer

You may find that some interviewers are just as nervous as you are - and some even more so! You may get the sense that they uncomfortable and uneasy in this situation; help them to relax by remaining calm and friendly. Offer them the relevant information, but be careful not to patronise.

2. The Disorganised Interviewer

Some interviewers may be unorganised and unable to find the papers or notes that they need. Give them time to get settled and do not appear impatient or frustrated.

3. The Unprepared Interviewer

Occasionally, you may come across an interviewer who has not prepared sufficiently, either because they have not had time or because they do not feel that they need to. Keep calm and patient; never use their lack of preparation to show them up or catch them out. However, if this interviewer holds a position of authority over the post, you may want to consider how you would feel about working with them.

4. The Aggressive Interviewer

An aggressive interviewer may use personal or professional criticisms to try to provoke you. Keep calm, and give positive explanations for any weaknesses, failings or gaps in your CV that they point out to you.