Interview Basics
by Millie Arbeiter
http://www.goemploymentweb.com
When interviewing for a position, it is important to
avoid the simple one or two word answers. For example.
if you are asked, "Can you take on multiple projects at
the same time", don't simply say, "Yes".
They recommend that you be very specific and use terms
that employers recognize. For example, say something
like, "Depending on the specifics of the project, it
can be efficient to handle more than one item at a time
to save time and money."
Now let~s check out the definition of "active listening
skills" and learn more to help with your next interview".
Just as everyday "speaking" is not the same as public
speaking; "listening" is not the same as active listening.
Active listening means two things: analysis and response to
the message being communicated.
An active listener maintains eye contact and good posture
with a slight lean towards the speaker. During the
interview, the listener nods, smiles and takes notes. Be
ware, however, that a daydreamer or pseudo listener, can
adopt these behaviors. So a listener~s physical response
does not necessarily mean good listening skills are at work.
Other factors such as gestures (when appropriate),
appearance, facial expressions, voice responses, and
even space distances can all affect how the interviewer
will interpret the listener's abilities to really
listen. So, take into account the interviewers
background and position and understand that his culture
may affect his perception of the interviewee.
Especially in this age of such great cultural diversity, be
courteous of others regardless of cultural, sexual or
societal backgrounds. If you are a woman and get to a door
before a man, open it. If your interviewer doesn~t speak
English very well and looks puzzled at your words, go back
and explain yourself again in different words and
re-establish a good communication exchange.
Note: a major part of active listening is paraphrasing.
It~s not the same as summarizing. A summary is a shortened
version of the original message, focusing on the main point.
To paraphrase means to re-state the message in your own
words.
Active listeners take notes by paraphrasing or restating
what the speaker said in their own words, and summarizing
main points. A good listener is not the same thing as a
silent listener. Good listeners ask questions, even
something like, "Is this an accurate paraphrase of you have
said?" to let the speaker know that you understand the
message being communicated.
Submit An Article
|
|
|
