Since an interview is like a relationship, using interpersonal skills—such as establishing rapport and demonstrating cooperation—can help you participate in interviews more successfully.

Rapport building, or exchanging messages that create a bond and a positive first impression, helps you quickly set the tone for an interview. Studies show that even your opening handshake can strongly influence interviewers’ impression of you during job interviews (Stewart, Dustin, Barrick, & Darnold, 2008). A friendly, upbeat greeting is key to establishing rapport. You’ll also want to use the other person’s name, know how the person prefers to be addressed (Dr. Franklin, Ms. Watson), and pronounce the name correctly. Appropriate self-disclosure—revealing relevant private information about yourself—can also help build rapport. For example, early in the interview, find some common ground—family, sports, hobbies—and talk briefly about it. But keep these topics noncontroversial and appropriate.

In addition to building rapport, demonstrate cooperation. As Chapter 5 explains, applying Grice’s cooperative principle means you make messages understandable by being informative, honest, relevant, and clear. Table A.3 explains how to use this principle during interviews.