| Career Center - [ Nonverbal
Communications ] |
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Nonverbal
Communications: Escape the Pitfalls
by Carole Martin
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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:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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