Communication That Wins the Job

Communication That Wins The Job Trish Mink

There is an invisible connection between the potential employer and potential employee. Communication is one of the most important tools you require to form the connection, that will result in you winning your new job. As a life coach my goal is to instill in you that what you need to create the success in your life, including work, is already inside of you. It may be hidden behind fears and issues, but it is there.

First it is your goal to obtain a new position. You have set your intentions, and sent out resumes. As a result you are called for the interview. You want that new position, you want to be the person they choose to work for them. You are already a winner. The truth is that today there is such competition that your resume has gained the attention and interest of the people hiring the job you want. That is the good news. You are in.

Communication is the exchange of information between parties. You want to present your self and conduct yourself so that you will be chosen. There are several types of communication. In this cases the ones used most are:

Physical-this includes facial expressions, smell and body motions. Most of these are non verbal, but say as much as what you speak. They also include posture, how you hold your body, gestures and how you dress. Interestingly enough across cultures gestures seem to be similar. A smile is always a smile.

Social-includes eye contact, and emotional signals that say when to speak and when to be quiet. They will tell whether you are interested or bored.

Interpersonal-speaking evenly, politely, listening.

Before the interview- dress appropriately, shoes always polished, be sure to be well groomed. Since smell is important, cleanliness can not be over stated. Keep strong deodorants, and perfumes to a minimum. Do not smoke before an interview, or at least do not smell of smoke. If your smell comes in before you, you have a strike against you. Make sure you know where you are going, and arrive a few minutes before your interview. If you need to relax to relieve stress, and there are several techniques, including meditation, affirmations you can use. You probably have your own at this point. I would also bring a copy of your resume, and any examples that will sell your achievements.

When you enter the waiting area, you are now in what I call the "Golden Moments". I can not stress how important this part is. It is important for the employer and for the potential employee. You are being watched from the time you greet the receptionist until you leave the building. So be polite, smile, greet the person who interviews you and the receptionist. Then while waiting for your opportunity, watch your posture, how you carry yourself.

If you are the interviewer or employer, watch your potential candidate. Do they have the characteristics to fit into your organization? Note all that you see both positive and negative.

Above all first impressions matter, when you are gone, that is how the employer will remember you. When meeting the interviewer, shake their hand. Use a firm confident shake, not a wimpy one. Also make sure your hands are not sticky. You can do this by using the restroom or carry a Kleenex.

During the interview-I suggest you keep a pen and paper in hand. It will keep your hands occupied. When speaking, smile when it is appropriate. As you speak use an even, polite tone. Use eye contact to show interest, and that you are listening. Sit upright, not too casual, pay attention, and listen. The way you respond is like a volleyball game, one serves, and there is this moment, like when the ball in the air, when you listen, formulate a response and then you answer back. This is where you build rapport.

This is also a time to pay attention to your nerves, for some it is a "fake it until you make it" moment. Some of the most accomplished people I know still get jitters while interviewing. So take your time, smile and state your answers.

Like I said, the fact that you are in the interview says you have made a great impression and that you are a winner. You are only confirming that to the people who will hire you. You carry yourself like this until you leave the building. All of this is communication that conveys interest, confidence, ability and desire to be successful. You will win your position!!