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Each party comes
to an interview with perceptions of self and of the other party,
and these perceptions may change positively or negatively as the
interview progresses. Theorists claim that our relationships are
largely due to these perceptions and determine how we
communicate. Be aware of four critical perceptions:
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Perceptions of Self
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Our
self-perceptions, self-concept, come from our physical,
social, and psychological perceptions derived from our experiences,
activities, attitudes, accomplishments, possessions, and
interactions with others, particularly our superior and subordinate
roles and relationships. Self-concept may be clouded by the variety of expectations family, society, professions, and organizations place upon us. Self-esteem, "positive or negative feelings we associate with our self-images," is an important element of self-concept. A person with high self-esteem is more perceptive, confident, and likely to express attitudes that are popular or unpopular. Persons with low self-esteem may want the approval of others but are so self-critical that they cannot interpret accurately the behaviour and communication of others. |
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Try to understand how you perceive yourself and how the other party perceives self, because self-concept (particularly self-esteem) may determine whether an interview takes place and its success or failure. We may succeed or fail in an interview because we are convinced we will - a self-fulfilling prophecy. Self perceptions influence messages send and received, risks taken, confidence, and degree of self-disclosure.
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Cultural
Differences Concepts of self-image, self-esteem, self-reliance, and self-awareness and central in American and western cultures because we emphasize the individual. They are not central in eastern cultures and South American countries. Japanese, Chinese, and Indians, for example, are collectivists rather than individualist cultures and are more concerned with image, esteem, and achievement of the group. Failure to appreciate culture differences causes many communication problems for American interviewers and interviewees. |
Perceptions of the Other Party
How each party perceives the other also affects how they approach the interview and how they react during the interview. For instance, you may be in awe of the other's reputation or position. Previous encounters with a party may lead you to look forward to or dread an interview. Your perceptions may be influenced by the other's age, sex, race, ethnic group, size, and physical attractiveness - particularly if they differ significantly from you.
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A positive
endorsement of a third party may alter the way you perceive a
person. If you are flexible and adaptable, perceptions of the other
party may change as an interview progresses by: - The way an interview begins or ends - Other party's manner and attitudes - Verbal and nonverbal interactions - Questions asked and answers given |
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The nature of interview exchanges may enhance perceptions. For instance, perceptions become positive when questions are followed by information desired rather than refusals or evasions, when requests are followed by discussion or agreement rather than demands followed by compliance, and when constructive criticism is followed by understanding rather than by fear or resentment.
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