Use of Impression Management Tactics in Professional Communication for Job Interviews among Graduate Students

Abstract

This study investigated the impression management techniques (IMTs) used by fresh graduates in job interviews. Job interview data from twenty-five candidates were analysed qualitatively. The focus of analysis was on five aspects of impression management tactics namely self-focus, self-presentation, exemplifications, entitlements, and enhancements. It was found that all twenty candidates were in the poor (n = 19; 60%), fair (n = 9; 36%), and average (n = 6; 4%) categories, with none in the good or excellent category. This study can benefit candidates by demonstrating that educational qualifications are not the only important criterion for success in a job interview.