How to Communicate Effectively During A Job Interview

Many of us wonder how people land the job they are in. What skills do they have, who do they know, etc. Yet often times it's because they impressed the interviewer(s) with their ability to communicate effectively.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Business Attire
• Black Ink Pen
• Tablet Portfolio

1. Understanding that there are 2 major forms of communication: Verbal and Non-Verbal is your first step to a successful job interview. Non-Verbal communication is exactly what it implies - communicating without talking. Whereas verbal communication is how you sound, and the words you use.

2. Non-Verbal Communication
   Non-Verbal communication is frequently ignored because little attention is given to it. We don't understand why we haven't received a call for an interview, or why we interviewed but didn't get the job. Well here are some non-verbal steps to take to increase your chances.
   
   Type a resume that includes accomplishments, and details your ability (ex: Answered phones vs Answered multi-line phone system and successfully directed over 50 calls per hour.)

3. Send a cover letter that explains your knowledge of the company's accomplishments over the years, and details how your skills can assist them. Furthermore, explain why you're looking. Keep everything brief - 2 to 3 paragraphs. Don't use the work "hope" use "know". You want to sound confident. Mention any procedural changes you've made and how well they were received.

4. Attire
   What you wear is just as important as everything else. It is the first time they actually get to visually meet you, so you want that first impression to be a "WOW" one.
   
   - Wear a standard color suit (navy, black, Dk. grey). Men wear a tie, and women wear a skirt. Many of you are asking why, but remember there are many who are saying why not. Besides it's just for an interview.
   - No low cut, or open shirts.
   - No sling back or open toe shoes. No tennis shoes.
   - No purse. Use your portfolio for your identifications. Place your car key in your chest area, or wallet.
   - No large earring(s) or other obvious body piercings.
   - Keep hair clean and combed.
   - Shave if necessary.
   - No perfume or cologne (allergies)
   - No smoking after you put on your interview attire. (Carry a small bottle of Febreeze)

5. Travel
   If you're on the bus, catch one an hour before to anticipated late buses or break downs.
   If you're driving on a highway that has traffic, leave at least 1.5 hrs before to anticipate accidents, closures, road work, etc.
   Arrive at least 30 min. early to search for parking and fill out any forms they may have.
   Take any extra time to formulate some questions you may have about the job.

6. Meeting
   Greet the receptionist with a smile, and introduce yourself. Sit quietly, and notice your surroundings. Take notes of anything that you notice might be relevant to the position that you can ask about.
   
   Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake (not knuckle breaking). This is important because a passive handshake can communicate shyness, or weakness.

7. Shake everyone's hand in the interview - with a smile. Offer a copy of your resume in case everyone doesn't have it. If you're nervous simple place your hands on your lap or grip you portfolio. This stops body movement, and reduces sweaty palms. Sit upright with both feet on the ground. As you get ready to answers questions, it is important to look at everyone when responding.

8. Verbal Communication
   Now it's time to speak. This is your opportunity to truly put a sparkle in their eye, and you don't have to use large words to do it. Simply take a deep breath, and relax your tone. Yes the tone, the way your voice sounds, makes all the difference.
   
   - Shaky voice - Communicates nervousness, unsure, non-confident.
   - Rushed voice - Communicates inability to listen, or slow down.
   - Quiet voice - Communicates timidness; similar to shaky.
   You don't want to sound passive, yet you don't want to sound arrogant. Try to establish a tone somewhere in the middle.

9. Have a least 3 questions for the interviewer even if they didn't ask you if you had any. Try not to sound as if you got them out of a book, or if someone told you to ask the specific question. Ask questions based on the position, and the description they gave you. This communicates strong interest in the job and company, not the benefits to you.

10. Non-Verbal
    As you respond look at the facial expressions of everyone. Watch whether or not they are taking long notes or short notes. This will give you a better clue as to how you are doing, and if you need to step it up some.
    
    Once the interview is over wait for them to stand, then you stand and shake everyone's hand again.

11. Verbal Communication
    Thank everyone for the interview, and ask the main interviewer for a business card. This is to remember who you interviewed with. Write the names of others if you didn't write it down in your portfolio.

12. Non Verbal Communication
    Send a hand written thank you to the person who gave you the interview. Do not email because people get inundated with emails that it may go to junk mail or not get read at all.
    
    Good Luck! Hope this helps.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember there's always someone who isn't prepared - so be prepared.
• Don't be nervous because most interviewers are nervous too.
• Keep a smile, not a grin.
• Relax, they must believe you're qualified because they called you.
• Look confident, and remember it's their loss not yours.