Do You Have an Annoying Mannerism?

By Marty Nemko

Richard Bolles, author of What Color is Your Parachute, urges all of us, especially in job interview situations, to beware of mannerisms that can make even a highly competent person seem like a loser: * You slouch in your chair. * You talk too much. * You fidget in your seat. * You play with your hair or hands. * You continually avoid eye contact. * You're too self-critical. * You speak as quietly as a mouse or as loudly as a wrestling announcer. * You constantly interrupt. We all like to think that substance is more important the style.

Alas (sigh), it's often not.

What can you do today?
Even if you're not looking for a job, have a friend do a mock interview with you. Ideally videotape it. Show him the above list and ask if he thinks you have any annoying mannerisms.