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» Nonverbal Communication Skill
It
begins even before you say your first word in an interview.
As the interviewer walks toward you to shake hands, an
opinion is already being formed. And as you sit waiting
to spew out your answers to questions you've prepared for,
you are already being judged by your appearance, posture,
smile or your nervous look.
Look back at speakers or teachers you've listened to. Which
ones stand out as memorable? The ones who were more animated
and entertaining, or the ones who just gave out information?
This is not to say you have to entertain the interviewer
-- no jokes required -- but it does mean the conversation
should be animated and interactive. If you say you are excited
about the prospect of working for this company but don't
show any enthusiasm, your message will probably fall flat.
So smile, gesture once in a while, show some energy and breathe
life into the interview experience.
And don't underestimate the value of a smile. In addition
to the enthusiasm it expresses to the interviewer, smiling
often makes you feel better about yourself.
Nonverbal Messages:
• The
Handshake: It's your first encounter with the interviewer.
She holds out her hand and receives a limp, damp hand in
return -- not a very good beginning. Your handshake should
be firm -- not bone-crushing -- and your hand should be dry
and warm. Try running cold water on your hands when you first
arrive at the interview site. Run warm water if your hands
tend to be cold. The insides of your wrists are especially
sensitive to temperature control.
• Your
Posture: Stand and sit erect. We're not talking ramrod
posture, but show some energy and enthusiasm. A slouching
posture looks tired and uncaring. Check yourself out in a
mirror or on videotape.
• Eye Contact: Look the interviewer in the eye. You don't want
to stare at her like you're trying to look into her soul,
but be sure to make sure your eyes meet frequently. Avoid
constantly looking around the room while you are talking,
because that can convey nervousness or a lack of confidence
with what is being discussed.
• Your Hands: Gesturing or talking with your hands is very
natural, but keep it in moderation. Getting carried away
with hand gestures can be distracting. Also, avoid touching
your mouth while talking. Watch yourself in a mirror while
talking on the phone. Chances are you are probably using
some of the same gestures in an interview.
• Don't
Fidget: There is nothing worse than people playing
with their hair, clicking pen tops, tapping feet or unconsciously
touching parts of the body.
Preparing what you have to say is important, but practicing
how you will say it is imperative. The nonverbal message
can speak louder than the verbal message you're sending.
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