Interviews vs Communication Skills

          They would have gotten satisfactory answers if they could just read her thoughts, the interviewers! It was not easy to give right, organised answers when there were pairs of eyes fixed on her and she just had to be conscious of every movement she made, not wanting to give off the wrong signals. Oby does not lack proficiency in communication, in fact, her communication skills were just her strength for the job she was looking for.
     However, in the quest to expressing herself and providing direct, organised answers to the questions they asked, words and memory seemed to fail her when each question was asked.

Could this be the case with many job seekers?

     Truly, communication skills are necessary for interaction, and when these skills are perfected, the eloquence of the speaker would be an advantage anywhere, especially during interviews. What then happens during interviews when people with good communication skills seem to be at loss for answers to simple questions?

     One of the reasons for this involuntary behavior could be the fear of appearing unprepared. What could be scarier than trying to impress a prospective employer with answers and one begins to speak incoherently? It may seem hard because, you do not want to provide answers in clipped in order not to appear ignorant while also trying not to pass off overconfident signals by speaking too much. In such cases, what can be done?

1. Breathe! It is normal for anxiety to make you take short and quick breaths. Interviews do not and will not threaten your physical survival. Be in control of your breath first and then you can take charge of every other thing that happens within you. Taking deep breaths through your nose and exhaling through your mouth helps to dispel nervousness and anxiety and the end result is speaking just fine.

2. Be prepared! Avoid tendencies to be clumsy. Practice common questions and answers that are real so you can remember them easily. Arrive at the interview venue early enough and rehearse these answers.

3. Positivity will do no harm. With a positive mindset, confidence will give no room for anxiety. Smile often and feel comfortable. However, it is important to understand that interviews are not interrogations to judge your inadequacies. Instead, think that the interview is an interaction between two people that wish to know and understand the importance of each other's strengths. Nobody is biting anyone.

Finally, be COMFORTABLE! When you are comfortable, your non - verbal communication will come naturally. However, ensure you gesticulate only when it is important, else, the interviewer may be distracted and your words may be lost in the air.