The key to being successful in an interview is to answer each question well, with strong content and credible delivery. To do this, you must anticipate and practice what to say, display confidence and enthusiasm and show that you have a positive attitude. The way you deliver your responses can be just as important as what you say.
Look directly into the interviewer’s eyes; give short, crisp, smooth answers that don’t sound memorized. Put energy in your voice. Consider one of the following guidelines in answering questions relative to your communication strategy…
- ANSWER the question….
- Highlight strengths, giving examples as appropriate… plays to behavioral interviewer style and tactics. Minimize weaknesses.
- At least address the issue of the question before
- Blocking
- Turnaround
- Answering in your terms
- Confronting or changing the subject!
PRE-Offer Negotiation
Become knowledgable of ‘MoneySpeak’ as it relates to your salary requirements. Be confident in ANY discussion of your salary, either past or future (NOTE: There is no present tense where money is concerned!). Remember…
“He who mentions money first, LOSES.”
PRE-offer negotiation is a very common use of guideline#3 in answering questions effectively. And, as alwats, answer the question and then STOP TALKING. You will feel pressured to defend or explain, compensating for your nervousness and emotion at this moment. This is definitely worth practice time with your accountability partner.
Over thirty years of experience as a Career Services Consultant. Projects have included: classic, corporate-sponsored outplacement activities, including career transition centers; internal career development centers; talent management services; and strategic recruitment programs. He also offers direct pay services to professional individuals, including: assessment and branding development (resumes, LinkedIn profiles, etc), job search skill training and job search coaching.
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