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Winning Communication Tips
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Often the job interview will start off with some small talk, asking questions about getting to the interview, the weather etc. Respond appropriately in a conversational tone but avoid over-communicating. Stay clear of problems or negatives such as describing how bad the traffic was.
Have a couple of polite conversational-type remarks ready for this small talk phase, for example comment positively on the building or surroundings. You can prepare these while you wait for the interviewer.
Address the interviewer by name but know how to pronounce it correctly. Ask the receptionist beforehand if you are unsure of how to pronounce it. It is advisable to address the interviewer formally until they suggest otherwise. Avoid abbreviating the interviewer's name unless asked to. For example if his name is Robert don't start calling him Bob!
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Important tips for job interviews include matching your communication style to that of the interviewer. If the interviewer is very business-like, then you should respond in a similar way. Avoid offering up jokes and funny stories. If the interviewer is more informal and chatty, adjust accordingly by responding in a more informal tone while still showing respect. The interviewer should be the one who sets the tone of the interview, not the candidate. |
A good interviewer will attempt to put the candidate at ease, don't interpret this as trying to be your friend! Always treat the job interview as a professional meeting.
A common mistake candidates make is talking too much. Listen to the question being asked, ensure you are clear as to what is requested and respond with the information. It is easy to move off the subject and chatter about irrelevant topics. Keep your answers concise and to-the-point and make sure you are answering what is asked.
It is advisable to ask for clarification if you are unsure what the interviewer means or wants. Don't guess and make assumptions, this usually results in an inappropriate response. Say something like, "So you would like me to tell you about ....". The interviewer can then correct you if you have misunderstood.
There is no need to fill up silences with unnecessary rambling. Silences will naturally occur as the interviewer gathers their thoughts or formulates the next question, it is important to be comfortable with silences.
One of the most important communication tips for job interviews is to avoid interrupting the interviewer. Make sure they have finished speaking before you respond.
You can do this by allowing a pause before you start speaking. Taking a little time to think about a question rather than rushing to answer also helps you to organize your thoughts and prevents verbal fillers such as "umm" and "you know". These always come across as unprofessional. By taking a moment to think before you answer you appear calm, confident and polite.
Try not to use jargon in your answers or questions. The interviewer may be unfamiliar with the jargon, often jargon is company-specific. Using jargon does not make you sound knowledgeable in the interview, often it just sounds as though the candidate is trying to impress with no real substance to the content of what is being said. Speaking simply and coherently is the best way to establish rapport.
Essential tips for job interviews include preparing and practicing answers and questions before the interview. This builds confidence and ensures that you are able to communicate effectively with your interviewer. Go to the comprehensive information and practical advice at common job interview questions and answers and how to prepare good questions to ask to present yourself as the right job candidate!
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