Job seekers are asked rude and intrusive questions by the employer to see if the worse will appear. Inappropriate questions are rare but not as often as a question that could rattle the person. Any loss of composure could disqualify the interviewed; however, a response steadfast in temperance and cool wins.

Handling pressure in a customer intensive career shows strength of character, and priceless professionalism.

Words that come out of the mouth…well… counts.

A job seeker may say the right words, but the way it’s said counts more than years of experience or skill.

Insulted? Use tact to respond.

Grow thick skin, as time and place for sensitivity. An interviewer insulted a friend recently in an interview asked about his ethnic background because the person interviewing couldn’t tell. My friend did not answer the question directly, but gave an anecdote as an answer. He responded that I fit in with all ethnic groups, and all classes of people. The person interviewing stated that she asked that question because her staff and clients are multi-cultured, and his answered ensured her that he could handle the diverse environment.

I purposely did not mention the culture of either person, but some put faces and races on them. The point here is that tact and respect is view positively, and as a proverb says, “A gentle word breaks a bone.”

I don’t like the way he said that, but I’ll play nice!

Insinuations only mean as much as a job seeker wants them to mean. Unless, it is inappropriate in some religious, racial, or sexual way, there is not much one can do but control self. I urge a person who hears (or thinks they have heard) something that doesn’t sound right, is to have the person repeat the question before responding in a softer and direct tone. This usually helps the interviewer to rephrase the question, or clarify it.

There are times when the wicked witch or warlock of the east finds mirth in torture will ask a question that borderline a butt whooping. Still, focus on what the question asked for if it does not break a law. Questions are misinterpreted sometimes, and what is asked is not always what sounds like.

Soft-spoken voices do not automatically induct anyone into the non-offensive hall of fame. Conversely, neither does a loud voice incriminate anyone. Looking into the eyes of the person asking the questions, and in a normal voice directly answers the question scores with the interviewer.

The respect thing.

No matter how a jerk acts, respect them. They could be the stepping stone you were hoping for and the obstacle only Bob Beaman can jump past. If you are disrespectful because something did not sound right, kiss your opportunity good-bye.

Yes sir, and yes ma’am always work as a measure of respect. Not necessary, but always receives a positive response.

Simply, respect the person as if you work for them. Tact and respect are not just weapons and tools; they are the key to building productive working relationships.

People will remember you attitude more than your Harvard Master’s degree in Technology. Tact and respect can set you apart in more ways you can count.