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What you should never say at an interview
If you're of the mindset that an interview is only
about you answering questions, think again! You've only got half the
picture right. An interview is also the time to keep your ears open and do
fact-finding about the job and company.
Listening is one of the most under-utilized skills in a job interview.
Most candidates are so preoccupied with how they present themselves and
how to tackle the interview questions that they tune out what the
interviewer is saying.
Listening has its rewards
An interview is your chance to gather valuable information that cannot be
found in the job ad or company website. While the interviewer may not be
able to divulge certain news to you, her choice of words and tone of voice
may give you indirect hints.
Don't be too eager to launch into your answer after hearing the first part
of a question. Let the interviewer finish the question because it's only
polite. What you think is a display of enthusiasm could be perceived as
impatience and lack of respect.
The ability to listen is also important, especially if you are applying
for a position in sales or customer service. If you can't pay attention to
what the interviewer is saying, will you ignore a customer's request in
future?
Listen to ask questions
The act of listening tells the interviewer you have heard and understood
what was said. Make an impact on the interviewer by remembering the small
but important details of the conversation. When the opportunity presents
itself, formulate questions or offer your opinion based on those points to
show you can think on your feet.
If the interviewer keeps bringing up your lack of experience in a
particular area of work, she's actually voicing her concern that you may
not be suited for the job. At this juncture, (if you have been listening
carefully) you should either convince her why her fears are unfounded or
decide that this job is really not for you.
Hone your listening skills
Practice being a better listener outside of interviews, by following these
tips:
- Use eye contact appropriately
- Be attentive and alert to a speaker's verbal and nonverbal behavior
- Wait for the speaker to finish her sentence before you start yours
- Respond with appropriate verbal and nonverbal expressions
- Ask questions in a neutral tone of voice
- Paraphrase or summaries what the speaker has said
- Be non-judgmental and empathies with the speaker
