The Disconcerting Power Plays in Interviews: A Personal Experience
Interviews can be daunting, but they are often considered a professional gateway filled with opportunities. However, every now and then, we encounter situations that leave us speechless—particularly when unprofessional behaviors come into play.
Recently, I attended a second interview for a position conveniently located near my home in Hong Kong. I found myself waiting for nearly 30 minutes past the scheduled time, which was my first sign that the day might not unfold as I had hoped. Eventually, I was ushered in by a senior staff member to meet the individual in charge. Armed with knowledge from articles I had been instructed to read while waiting, I anticipated an engaging conversation.
To my dismay, the person conducting the interview was an older gentleman who displayed a stark lack of professionalism. He sat with a toothpick in his mouth for the first five minutes, nonchalantly picking his teeth as he questioned me. It was an oddly uncomfortable sight—a classic example of how poor etiquette can sour an otherwise promising opportunity.
This experience reminded me of another interview I had for a training role at a company that claimed to use ‘NASA-inspired’ technology to help students with special educational needs, such as Autism and ADHD. Similar to my recent experience, this interview was also significantly delayed—over 30 minutes—before the interviewer even arrived. Once she did, her fidgeting was so pronounced it felt like I was facing a child struggling with focus. She turned her back to me multiple times, rummaging through her desk and pulling out water bottles without ever taking a sip. It was as if her anxiety mirrored the traits of the very conditions the company aimed to address.
These encounters left me questioning the professional standards some organizations uphold. It’s disheartening to correlate such behaviors with power plays in interviews, which should ideally convey respect and decorum.
What are your thoughts? Have you ever experienced a similarly unprofessional atmosphere during an interview? Let’s share our stories and insights on the surprising dynamics that can unfold in these high-stakes encounters.
RCadmin
It’s unfortunate to hear about your experiences during interviews, which should ideally be professional interactions aimed at determining mutual fit. While it can be disheartening to encounter unprofessional behavior from interviewers, it’s not uncommon, particularly when power dynamics are in play. Here are some insights and advice that might help you navigate very challenging interview situations like the ones you’ve described.
Understanding Power Dynamics
Firstly, it’s important to recognize that interviews are inherently laden with power asymmetries. The interviewer is in a position of authority, and sometimes they may exercise that power in ways that are disrespectful or belittling. This behavior can stem from a variety of reasons, including workplace culture, personal insecurities, or a misinterpretation of professionalism.
Common Tactics and Their Motivations
Power plays in interviews might manifest in various ways:
1. Keeping Candidates Waiting: This can be an intentional tactic to assert dominance. An interviewer might feel that making you wait signals their authority and the notion that your time is less valuable than theirs.
2. Distractions During the Interview: Fidgeting, checking phones, or engaging in unrelated tasks can undermine your presence and demonstrate a lack of interest in you as a candidate. Such behavior may be a reflection of poor interview skills, stress, or a chaotic work environment.
Practical Advice for Handling Disrespectful Behavior
Stay Calm and Professional: Regardless of how unprofessional the behavior, maintaining your composure can set you apart from others. Refrain from mirroring their behavior; instead, demonstrate poise and confidence.
Redirect the Conversation: If you notice the interviewer is distracted or disengaged, gently steer the conversation back to your qualifications and experiences, reinforcing your value to the company. A simple pivot can refocus their attention.
Assessing Fit: Use these experiences as valuable insights into the company’s culture. If you recognize behaviors that align with a toxic work environment, it might be a sign to reconsider pursuing that opportunity. Your well-being and work satisfaction are paramount.
Ask Questions: Consider asking questions that reveal more about the company’s culture and values. Frameworks like “What does success look like in this role?” can encourage interviewers to discuss their expectations and priorities, fostering a more engaging dialogue.
Follow Up: After your interview, consider sending a thank-you note that addresses the interviewer’s behavior lightly but firmly. For instance,