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This article
describes communication during a Job Interview.
Because a job
interview is a communication process, if you communicate your
skills, experiences, and interests effectively, there is a greater
chance the employer will remember you. Keep the following rules in
mind:
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Be
yourself. Speak clearly and enthusiastically about your
experiences and skills. Be professional, but don't be afraid to
let your personality shine through.
-
Listen
carefully. You will want to remember what you learn about the
job, and you will want to answer the questions that were asked.
-
Be
positive. Employers do not want to hear excuses or bad feelings
about a negative experience. If you are asked about a low grade,
or a weakness in your background, don't be defensive. Focus
instead on briefly stating the facts and what you learned from
the experience.
-
Be poised.
Pay attention to your nonverbal behavior. Look the interviewer
in the eye, sit up straight with both feet on the floor, control
nervous habits, don't giggle or play with your hair, and smile
as you are greeted.
-
Don't be
afraid of short pauses. You may need a few seconds to formulate
an answer. The interviewer may need time to formulate an
appropriate question. It is not necessary to fill up every
second with conversation.
Most
interviewers are looking for specific skills. Keep the following
list in mind while practicing your answers and also during the
interview. Employers are looking for:
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Communication skills-the ability to think on your feet,
formulate ideas, and relate them in a succinct manner.
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Leadership
skills, managing, and directing people.
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Management
of resources.
-
Direction
setting.
-
Computer
savvy.
-
Knowledge
of business and organizational management.
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Teamwork
experience.
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Trustworthiness, responsibility, dependability.
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Diligence.
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Adaptability.
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