Every
situation you are in during a job search requires verbal communication so here
are some pointers to improve your ability to communicate with others when
networking, at a job fair, in a job interview etc.
1)
When preparing an “elevator speech” and responses to questions you anticipate
being asked during an interview carefully contemplate what you want to say and
how you will say it and then consider if it is useful or useless information.
Then go over it again to make sure the response is as succinct as possible in
getting your point across.
2)
Make an effort to know as much as possible about the background, feelings, and
knowledge base of the people you speak to because the responses you get are
greatly influenced by these factors.
3)
During an interview, or when questioned by someone you want to network, avoid
speaking in generalizations and speak directly to the question, topic or idea
at hand. This will earn you more respect than trying to be evasive.
4)
Be genuine. People want to know your opinions so make sure they understand what
you have to say [without overkill] before yielding the floor or moving on to a
new question or topic.
5)
Speak clearly, pleasantly, and with confidence, and throw in a smile or two
every so often to make the listener feel he or she is a part of the
conversation.
6)
If you’re a natural with humor don’t be afraid to use it. People are
comfortable with someone who can make them chuckle. Tactful humor in the right
situation is Ok.
7)
Listening is the key element of communication. You can’t respond appropriately
if you fail to hear what the other person has to say; especially when it comes
to reading the tone, nuances and body language between the lines. When someone
else is speaking listen closely with the intention of grasping what they have
to say without focusing your mind on formulating an immediate reply.
8)
Show that you are interested in what’s being said by others. You can do this in
two ways, by asking the right questions at the right time and by making regular
eye contact.
9)
Conversely pay attention to what you shouldn’t do. Don’t rush, interrupt, or
finish the other person’s sentences, or come across as always in the right.
10)
Watch your body language. Too much fidgeting, tapping your pen or fingers, eye
rolling, or making exasperated faces show that you don’t care what someone is
saying.
As
always, I’m available to critique U.S. resumes and offer suggestions to you at
no cost. You can send me an email with your current resume to perry@perrynewman.com
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