Before you stop reading, let me clarify that it is not only necessary to bring something to hold, but that it also needs to be the right thing.

Author(s):
Carsi Hughes Ph.D.

If you are interviewing for a job, you have likely already thought about a lot of things: the facility, the staff, the clients, the questions, and the wardrobe. One thing you may have overlooked is What Should I Do With My Hands During The Interview?

Before you decide that this is not an important variable, I urge you to sit in front of a mirror and answer questions much like you would in an actual interview. Look at your hands. Are they waving around like you are swatting a fly? Tapping? Gripping the bottom of your chair (and maybe even spinning the chair)? Are they folded so tightly there are white knuckles or tucked under your armpits? Maybe you’re flicking your hair or biting your nails or awkwardly clasping and unclasping your hands to a subtle rhythm. Whatever you are doing with your hands, it is probably distracting to both you and to the interviewer. There is an easy way to take care of this situation: bring something to hold.

Before you stop reading, let me clarify that it is not only necessary to bring something to hold, but that it also needs to be the right thing. I have seen people interview carrying a variety of no-no’s: tote bags and purses, a roller suitcase, an entire supply of dry erase markers in a felt case, a ball point pen that was repeatedly clicked, cell phones, journals, Tupperware, coffee, boots (that they had changed out of), sunglasses, and a bottle of hand sanitizer. These were not good choices.

I always recommend that interviewees bring in a leather binder. That’s all. In the binder you can put a copy of your cv or directions or some paper and a pen. It is unlikely you will need any of those things, but it will make you feel prepared. The binder can sit on your lap and takes two hands to keep it steady. Even if you start gesturing with one hand, it will be short-lived, as you will need that hand to keep the binder in place. It looks professional without being huge, has a function, and it a wonderful resting place for your hands. Also, simply having holding something on your lap may help you feel more relaxed and less focused on how you are sitting and where your hands are located. These can be purchased at any office supply store and are inexpensive. In a pinch, you can bring a folder; however, folders are made of paper, might show a sweaty hand print, and tend to launch their contents at inappropriate times. Go get a binder.

Meanwhile, thanks to all of you employers and employees who share your stories with me. I continue to post job leads on the main list serv to prevent multiple email duplication.