Conversation Course
The Interview
Imagine yourself sitting in front of the interviewer, trying
to answer questions and describe events. You are nervous and your thoughts
are racing. At this point of departure, preparation or lack thereof will determine
your conversation course. Make yours a smooth ride! Many
books have been written on the art of effective conversation. They all agree
on one point: practice indeed makes perfect. Recruit a friend or
family member to play the role of interviewer as you rehearse your answers
and reactions. During the interview, remember to maintain an enthusiastic,
positive attitude. Let the interviewer set the pace of the interview and go
with the face-to-face flow.
| Keep on course by following these
guideposts: |
|  Verbal
- Think before you speak: Before you answer
a question, spend a few moments thinking about what you are about
to say. Brief pauses in the conversation are fine. If you are truly
stumped, politely ask the interviewer if you can have a few moments
to compose your thoughts.
- Paint a verbal picture: Use examples to show
your skills and abilities. Before the interview, visualize examples
that illustrate each of the qualities listed on your resume.
- Peace train: Never criticize your present
or previous employer. State career and job changes as moving forward
to better opportunities, not as leaving something.
- Word flow: Do not give one-word answers such
as "yes" or "no." Answer in complete sentences and phrases.
- Nix nervous glitches: Avoid using phrases
such as "um, um, um" when you are nervous or trying to finish a thought.
Practice silence instead.
- The best policy: Absolutely do not lie! Honesty
is of utmost importance during an interview. Avoid overstating, exaggerating,
or bragging about your experience and qualifications.
- Inquire within: Ask the interviewer questions
to show your interest, intelligence, and thoroughness. Ask for details
of the job description so you know what the employer is looking for.
- Save it for later: The first interview is
not the time to bring up money. Let the employer bring up the subject
of salary and do not quote a rate until you are offered the job.
|
| Non-verbal
- Lend a hand: Shake the interviewer's hand
upon meeting and when leaving. Make your handshake firm but not bone
crushing.
- Open up: Use gestures such as nodding and
open palms to show that you are sincere, receptive, and interested.
Do not cross arms over chest, as this communicates negativity.
- Eye contact: Look directly at the interviewer
when you are speaking to them, and vice-versa. Do not let your eyes,
and therefore thoughts, wander away from the conversation at hand.
- Stand/sit at attention: Do not turn away from
the person speaking. To show that you are interested and attentive,
lean slightly forward in your chair. Do not lean way back and appear
too relaxed and uninvolved.
- Forego fidgeting: Avoid rubbing your face,
playing with your hair, tapping or drumming your fingers, or any other
distracting gestures during the interview.
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