Maintaining eye contact in a job interview can be a challenge for many individuals, especially those on the autism spectrum or those who experience social anxiety.

It often feels overwhelming and unnatural, yet it plays a role in effective communication and building connections.

Here are some strategies to address this issue during your interview:

For Interviewees:

1. Practice Alternatives to Eye Contact:

• Instead of direct eye contact, practice looking at a point between the interviewer's eyes or just above their head. This can give the appearance of eye contact without the discomfort.
• Focus on other aspects of body language, such as nodding or smiling, to show engagement and attentiveness.

2. Prepare and Practice Responses:

• Practice common interview questions and answers with a friend, family member, or career coach to build confidence.
• Record mock interviews to review and improve your comfort level with maintaining appropriate levels of eye contact.

3. Address It Directly if Comfortable:

• If you feel comfortable, briefly mention at the beginning of the interview that you find eye contact challenging due to anxiety. This can set the interviewer’s expectations and reduce your anxiety.
• For example, say: "I find it challenging to maintain eye contact due to social anxiety, but I want to assure you that I'm fully engaged in our conversation."

4. Use Written Communication:

• If face-to-face interviews are particularly challenging, inquire if part of the interview process can be conducted in writing or via email. This can allow you to present your skills and qualifications without the added pressure of eye contact.

For Interviewers:

1. Create a Comfortable Environment:

• Be aware that some candidates may have difficulty with eye contact. Provide a welcoming and understanding environment.
• Use neutral body language and maintain a calm, encouraging tone throughout the interview.

2. Focus on Skills and Qualifications:

• Prioritize the candidate's skills, experience, and qualifications over their ability to maintain eye contact.
• Evaluate their responses, problem-solving abilities, and overall fit for the role rather than their eye contact.

3. Offer Alternatives:

• Provide options for interview formats, such as video interviews, written assessments, or task-based evaluations, which might be more comfortable for candidates on the spectrum.

4. Be Patient and Supportive:

• Show patience and support during the interview. If a candidate struggles with eye contact, avoid drawing attention to it.
• Offer verbal and non-verbal cues of encouragement, such as nodding and smiling, to help the candidate feel more at ease.

5. Educate Interviewers:

• Train interviewers on neurodiversity and the unique challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum. This can foster a more inclusive hiring process and ensure candidates are evaluated fairly.

General Tips:

• Use Positive Reinforcement: Acknowledge the candidate's strengths and achievements throughout the interview.
• Focus on Content: Pay attention to what the candidate says rather than how they deliver it.
• Provide Clear Instructions: Ensure that interview questions and tasks are clear and unambiguous.

By implementing these strategies, both interviewees and interviewers can create a more comfortable and inclusive interview experience, allowing all candidates to showcase their true potential.