Today, I'd like to address a crucial topic - communication skills. We all communicate, and have our own habits, which might be favourable or unwanted. Keep in mind, that communication is not only verbal. There's also nonverbal communication, which is equally important.
Also, if we are high school or university students, we will be undergoing interviews, therefore I thought that it will be appropriate if I suggest you some interview tips as well.
1. Speak Clearly
Whether you are at an interview, or having a casual conversation with a person, they, fundamentally, have to hear and understand what you are saying.
2. Avoid "umm; aaah etc."
It is hard to avoid making these sounds, while looking for words during a conversation. But it's okay to remain silent if you don't have an answer. This will suggest to a person you are speaking to, that you are a type of person who doesn't say the first thing that comes up to your mind, and that will also emphasise that you are well skilled in communication.
3. Look into the Eyes
If you are talking to an individual, it would be best if you will be looking a person into the eyes. Don't stare, though! If you are doing it right, a person (or an interviewer) will see that you are focused and friendly.
4. Greet
This is more of an interview tip.
So, if you are greeting a person, definitely look them in the eyes, not around the room or at your seat. Secondly, do the handshake, and while doing it - introduce yourself(name, etc.) and mention that it is a pleasure to meet the interviewer. No doubt, that you should research your interviewer ahead of time to learn their name and something special about them. If you didn't get a chance to research, ask them their name while handshaking. Do not take a seat, until the interviewers say or/they are seated. This tactic, will right away prove that you are well-mannered and respectful.
5. Listen
Like on a test, you should always listen to your interlocutor's question or comment fully before responding. Not only, it is a sign of respect, but it also gives you chance to analyse a question or a comment and respond appropriately.
If you are going to an interview that you know will be very long, thorough and valuable, it is a good idea to bring a paper and a pen, to note some nuances from the asked questions. It will highlight your organisation skills.
6. Know Yourself
There are some things that you just have to know how to answer, such as "tell me about yourself; what was the worst period of your life; etc.". The answers to this types of questions must be completely memorised, although don't dare lying. The interviewer is just looking for a better fit for an organisation. If you are not going to be chosen based on the respond you give, that's even better for you, since you will not be struggling at this organisation.
7. The Art of an Answer
There's an art to answering a question. When a question is asked, do not repeat in in an answer. Ex. Q: How do you feel about zoos? A: I feel about the zoos that..... You should go straight on to the core of your answer. Ex. A: The zoos are....;....;.....;, therefore I think, that......
8. What if You Don't Know how to Answer a Question?
If you don't know how to answer a question, don't panic. There is a few things you could do:
1) Clarify. Maybe, you didn't understand the question correctly. Clarify it with a person you are speaking to. This will suggest that you are a type of person, who pays attention to details and doesn't throw out whatever comes into the mind first.
2) Take your time to think about it. Literally, say "Could I get a minute to think about it, please?"
3) Say, that you don't know (but do not apologise, that's a sign of a weakness). This way, an interviewer will see, that you are an honest person. You can't possibly know an answer to all questions, so really, don't panic.
9. Research
Depending on the type of interview you go, research and practice all possible questions. It will definitely make you more comfortable and confident. This will highlight your preparation skills, which are always valuable.
10. On Your Way Out...
Definitely, thank an interviewer for an opportunity to get to know you. Of course, mention their name, and wish them a good day. This, will leave a positive last impression.
11. Smile
Smiling is very important to emphasise that you are
1) confident
2) happy to be there
Although, keep in mind, that if a question comes in a serious tone, make sure to behave accordingly.
12. The Card of Gratitude
Send an email, or a mail with the card of gratitude. Mention the names, and highlight any specific questions or moments during an interview.
13. Behave
This tip, is so fundamental that I didn't even want to include it. BUT...Here is something important:
1) Clean up you social media accounts, because they will most likely get checked
2) From the moment you enter the building, you are already being "interviewed". No phones, complains or emotions. Behave calmly and respectfully.
14. Dress ans Prepare Accordingly
A few weeks prior to your interview, enter the building and see what most people are wearing. Wear something similar, and maybe one "level" more professional. That way, the interviewers will see that you've done a good job researching their institution and you will feel much more comfortable.
Obviously, bring an umbrella just in case of the bad weather. And in general, bring everything you need (resume, application, etc.) in multiple copies, in case there will be more than 1 interviewer.
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