Congratulations! Your resume and cover letter were impressive enough to get you to the top of the pile, and now you have an interview for the job of your dream. This is the opportunity to convince the interviewer that you are perfect for the particular position.
Do not miss out on that golden opportunity. Here are some speech skills you need to achieve that are all-important to make a great first impression.
1. Be Polite
The way you interact with people – from the receptionist to the parking attendant – says a lot about what kind of employee you will be. Greet everyone in a warm, friendly way. During your interview, take care to exude positivity and enthusiasm. You will never get another chance to make the first impression.
2. Don’t Give out Too Much Information
When you’re nervous, you may be tempted to ramble on about irrelevant or too personal topics. This behavior could immediately disqualify you from the job. Also, do not convey any expectations about payment. There will be time to ask about that later if you are offered the job.
3. Practice and Prepare
Avoid the trap of freezing or rambling by studying common interview questions and preparing your responses to them. Do not memorize your answers; simply practice some key points. This preparation will help you feel more confident so you can portray your best self.
4. Attend to Your Non-Verbal Communication
Your body language should convey an impression of confidence. Stand up straight and maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Try not to fidget or slouch. Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake.
5. Research the Company
Impress your interviewer not just with your knowledge of the job description and the company, but also of the community, the core values and mission, and any notable achievements. Check out the company website, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. With so much information readily accessible online, there’s no excuse not to do a thorough research.
6. Dress to Impress
If possible, find out the company dress code beforehand and dress more formally. Any clothing you wear to your interview should be clean and ironed. Be extra vigilant about your hygiene and grooming.
7. Ask Questions
During the interview, you will certainly be asked if you have any questions. Whatever you do, do not say that you have none. Asking questions shows that you are curious and interested. It’s also a good way to make sure that this company is a good fit for you.
8. Engage in Active Listening
Good communicators know how to listen well. Show your interviewer that you are an active listener by nodding and occasionally paraphrasing what he or she says. Besides, this is a good way to learn more about the company.
9. Use Professional Language
Do not talk to the interviewer in the same way that you would to your friends. Keep professional boundaries in the forefront and show that you know your place. Avoid personal topics and keep the conversation focused on business.
Practice these skills to present your best self during the interview, and nothing will hold you back from your dreams.