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Interview Etiquette: What Type Of Pen Is Best During Interviews?

When choosing a pen for your next interview, remember to shop for a stylish notepad as well.

By Robert GitauPublished 3 years ago 3 min read
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It is advisable to take notes on the questions that panelists ask you- as well as the insights they share- during an interview. For starters, notes help you organize your answers, appear interested in the proceedings, and you can later use the notes to write a compelling thank you email. That is why you must always carry a pen to the interview room.

Speaking of pens, does the type, brand, quality, or cost of the pen you use during a job interview matter? Do any of those factors have any consequential impact on the interview’s outcome? Well, to a great extent, the writing instrument you take to an interview room is significantly important. For starters, using an old, broken plastic pen that appears like a car run over it could portray you as a joker and a disorganized person.

On the other hand, pulling out an extremely expensive pen could be misinterpreted to mean that you are flashy and reckless with your finances. After all, your interviewer knows that you are looking for a job because you are either unemployed or in a low-paying job, so you are expected to be a little more conservative with your finances.

With that in mind, you need to find an interview pen that will not only project confidence and professionalism but that also sends the right undertone message to the interviewers. Here are 4 important tips that will help you find the best pen for your next interview:

1. Choose a pen that doesn’t smudge or leek

Bring to the interview room a pen that is reliably consistent. The pen should have a point size that allows you to write comfortably, fast, and cleanly. The last thing you want during an interview is a pen that leaves smudge marks on your fingers or that leek in your pocket. That’s embarrassing.

Fine-point pens are good for taking interview notes. However, avoid fountain pens because of their tendency to leak. While at it, make sure that your pen has enough ink to last the entire interview. It can be very embarrassing if you have to refill your pen in the middle of an interview.

2. Use a professional pen

Your pen should be a key part of your professional ensemble. It should mirror your creativity and sophistication. When interviewing for an executive job, for example, be sure to carry a pen that sends a tasteful statement; a statement that you are daring enough to be unique. That tells your interviewers that you have what it takes to command the needed respect from your juniors.

When choosing your interview pen, avoid colored ink such as green, pink, yellow, or orange; not unless you are interviewing for an art-related role. Black ink is the universally-accepted ink for professional correspondence, although Blue is also acceptable. Please note that red ink appears punitive and should never be used in an interview room.

3. Pay attention to small details

Interviewers are attentive to every little detail and so should you. Clicking your pen’s retracting mechanism every now and then, tucking the pen behind your ear, or chewing the pen during an interview are some little details that could piss off your interviewers. Also, remember not to bring a promotional pen that directly or indirectly campaigns for a competitor.

4. Avoid pricey pens

It is important to choose Stylish Pens for your interview, but you should find one that’s not too flashy or quirky. You can easily find a classy and functional pen for under $10 USD.

When choosing a pen for your next interview, remember to shop for a stylish notepad as well. A perfect pen-notepad combo shows that you are serious and sufficiently prepared not only for the interview but also for the job.

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