Implicature in Self-Introduction Questions in Job Interviews: Study of Malaysian Fresh Graduates

Abstract

The study conducted an analysis of how candidates utilize implicatures in their self-introduction responses during job interviews. The research focused on a group of Malaysian fresh graduates, with English language proficiency playing a crucial role in their job interview success. A qualitative method was employed, collecting job interview data from an organisation involved in customer services. The analysis applied the concept of implicatures from the field of pragmatics in linguistics, specifically Grice's (1975) framework. Implicatures allowed candidates to indirectly convey additional information, showcasing their strengths and motivations. The study identified similarities in the strategic use of implicatures among the candidates, while differences arose from their unique experiences. It emphasised the importance of linguistic competence, self-awareness, and effective communication in job interviews. The findings further highlighted implicatures as a valuable tool for Malaysian fresh graduates to prepare for job interviews, enabling them to create a positive impression and stand out among other candidates. Overall, the study provided insights into the linguistic competence of candidates and offered guidance for effectively presenting oneself in self-introduction responses during job interviews.