In the competitive world of job applications, candidates often strive to make the best impression possible. One common tactic is to smile, as it conveys friendliness and approachability. However, recent research challenges the effectiveness of this strategy, particularly for applicants seeking serious roles. Two studies have shed light on the nuanced relationship between smiling and hireability, revealing that a less cheerful demeanor might be more beneficial in specific job contexts.
The first study involved participants rating the expected behavior of applicants for four different job types. Interestingly, newspaper reporter candidates were perceived as needing a more serious demeanor compared to applicants for other positions. This expectation set the stage for a deeper investigation into how smiling influences hiring decisions.
In the subsequent study, participants took on the roles of either applicants or interviewers for a newspaper reporting position. The findings were revealing: smiling was negatively correlated with hiring outcomes. Moreover, the research showed that the relationship between applicants’ motivation to create a positive impression and their hireability was mediated by their level of smiling. Specifically, hiring chances peaked when applicants smiled less during the middle of the interview, compared to their expressions at the beginning and end.
To further explore these dynamics, the second study had participants watch clips from the first study, where they evaluated applicants for one of four job roles. The results reinforced the initial findings—participants rated applicants as more suitable when they smiled less, particularly for positions that called for a serious demeanor.
This suggests that the type of job plays a significant role in moderating the impact of smiling on hiring. While a friendly smile might be beneficial for customer-facing roles or creative positions, it could hinder applicants seeking serious positions, like journalism or other fields that demand gravitas and professionalism.
For job seekers, especially those applying for positions where a serious demeanor is expected, the research offers important insights. Here are a few takeaways:
The findings from these studies highlight the complexity of non-verbal communication in hiring contexts. While smiling is often seen as a universal gesture of positivity, its effectiveness is heavily influenced by the nature of the job. For applicants targeting serious positions, a more restrained approach may lead to better outcomes. Ultimately, understanding the nuances of how behavior is perceived in different job contexts can help candidates navigate the interview process more effectively, paving the way for successful hires.
