Interviewer perceptions of applicant qualifications: A multivariate field study of demographic characteristics and nonverbal cues

Abstract

Eight interviewers' perceptions of 517 applicants (mean age 16.7 yrs) for seasonal employment at a large amusement park were studied by obtaining their ratings of personal style variables, body movements, speech characteristics, and a final judgment on overall qualifications. Analysis of nonverbal clues showed the relative importance of speech characteristics (articulation, proper pauses) and unimportance of personal appearance variables (cleanliness, clothing) when these variables were simultaneously considered. MANOVA and MANCOVA showed a relationship between the race and sex of the applicant, sex of the interviewer, and nonverbal cues. A unique variance for these demographic variables was demonstrated even after education background data and nonverbal cues were controlled. It is concluded that communication skills are primary influences on judgment of qualifications when considered simultaneously with other nonverbal cues and that demographic differences are systematically related to these nonverbal cues and judgments of qualifications. (17 ref) (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)