Face Mask Etiquette at a Job Interview

When it comes to job interviews, the rules have changed in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. As college graduates head out into the workforce while others, laid off due to the crisis, find themselves suddenly needing to sharpen their skills, it’s a good time to tackle some obvious questions. The reality is that it’s a different type of job interview today and it certainly helps when you are prepared. Staring with the most obvious … the face mask.

Should I wear a face mask during the interview?

The simple answer is yes. If you are going into an office to interview in person, wearing a mask shows respect for your interviewer and everyone else in the office. The CDC guidelines are clear and you want to make sure you are doing everything you can to protect yourself and others.

Your future employer wants to get to know you and there may be several rounds of interviews before a final decision is made. When possible, request an initial virtual interview. This allows the interviewer to visually take note of your facial expressions. Even when wearing a mask, you can show expression through your eyes which translates confidence, friendliness and authenticity.

Before an office interview, it is perfectly acceptable to ask about their COVID-19 policies. Say something like, “Do you have a COVID policy in place and is there anything specific I should know before I arrive at your office.” This is a polite way of asking, “Do you have a policy in place?”

Don’t hesitate to let the interviewer know you will arrive wearing a mask and will be practicing social distancing and other safe practices. You might feel this step is off-putting or will hurt your chances of getting a job, but on the contrary, you will be noted for your proactive demeanor. Keep your tone of voice friendly and thoughtful. Admittedly, these conversations can be awkward but you need to know what type of employer you will be working for and what steps they take to keep their employees safe and healthy.

Greetings

Handshakes, for now, are off the table. Knuckle bumps are not an acceptable alternative. Show your respect by raising your hands up and towards your own body, stating you are happy to meet them and appreciative of the opportunity to interview. An interview is a chance to find out if you are both a good fit for each other. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and engage. 

Be Prepared to Have Your Temperature Checked.

It goes without saying that if you are feeling sick or running a fever, stay home and reschedule. Many offices are taking visitors’ temperature before allowing them to enter. If you are under the weather, it’s best to call and set up an appointment for another time. Your interviewer will appreciate your honesty and respect your decision to keep others healthy.

Wash Your Hands and Sanitize 

If the office administrator offers you a spritz of hand sanitizer when you enter, don’t hesitate to use it. You probably touched the door handle and perhaps the elevator button. It’s another level of safety you should take advantage of during this time. Wash your hands as soon as possible after touching high traffic items.

Keep Your Hands Away from Your Face

I recently had to visit an office and noticed the front desk attendant continuously touching her mask while working on her computer. It was a habit she was not aware she was doing, but worth noting so you don’t do the same during your job interview. Every detail matters and during this particular time, it’s not only about your image but your health and the health of others.

I recently spoke with Deidre Fitzpatrick, KCRA3 Sacramento, on how to keep your job skills updated and appear professional during the interview. You can watch the video below.

You might also like How to Nail Your Virtual Job Interview. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.

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