I was at a meeting of employers and non-profits who work with all types of job seekers. Several of the participants gave reports on their workforce development programs, working with individuals with limited job skills, education or experience. One non-profit director described a six-week program that her clients go through to learn how to fill out job applications and how to interview.
The first week focuses on basic tactics of communication and how to present yourself to a prospective employer. The steps are so basic you would wonder why they are even part of the training. But it’s these basic tactics that often are forgotten. It really doesn’t matter if you are looking for your first job or have been in the workforce for years. These tips are essential for anyone looking for a job. If you incorporate these into your next interview, you’ll make a huge impression and rise above the rest of the applicants.
1. Smile. I recently judged a speech contest for high school students. One young lady came in with an attitude that showed on her face. She never smiled. She had squinty eyes and a set mouth that oozed defiance. She shuffled up to the lectern, gave her speech and then shuffled back to her seat, never changing her expression. A smile is inviting and engaging. It lets the interviewer know you are open and friendly.
2. Shake Hands. This is as old as the hills, but a lot of people just don’t know how to shake hands. Shake the whole hand, not just the fingers or knuckles. Take a firm grip, and pump up and down a couple of times. Then, let go. No need to hang on, clasp with both hands or grab the other person’s upper arm. An applicant should extend his hand to start a handshake. It shows confidence, professionalism and credibility. A firm handshake starts and ends the interview.
3. Eye Contact. Eye contact is essential, especially when shaking hands and during the initial greeting (with a smile). People who don’t make eye contact can appear nervous, aloof, disinterested, unprofessional and lacking confidence. They also appear rude or dishonest. Don’t give someone the death stare, but avoid looking around the room, at the interviewer’s computer screen, out the window or at your cell phone. Focus on the interviewer.
4. Use Names. Using a person’s name builds rapport and creates a familiar atmosphere. Use it sparingly, but do use it when you shake hands at the beginning and the end of the interview and during the conversation.
5. Use gestures. Some people speak with their hands. Using proper gestures while talking gives the impression of energy, interest and makes the conversation come alive. I’m not talking about waving your hands and arms wildly for the entire interview. But gestures to illustrate a point help the listener understand and stay focused.
6. Posture. Sit up straight and lean slightly forward to show interest and keep you focused. Don’t slouch, cross and uncross your legs, look through bags or pockets, click a ballpoint pen or do other annoying things that detract from your personal appearance.
7. Voice tone. Speak up and enunciate. So much of working well with others is communication. The young lady in #1 spoke in a whisper. She might have had a lot of interesting things to say, but we couldn’t hear them. Speaking softly or in a monotone makes you appear nervous, scared, unsure and timid. Vary your voice tone to keep things interesting.
Use these seven tactics as a checklist. How many do you need to work on? They will make you a stand-out in an interview and on the job.
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