Speaking tips for job interviews.

Speaking tips for interviews.

The traditional job interview is based on your speaking ability. It is not only what you say, but how well that you say it. Just at a time that the job seeker may be feeling nervous, or a little off-base, their message and delivery are being evaluated. Here are some public speaking tips to help you in a job interview setting.

1. Relax and Smile. In your mind, imagine a picture of the best Real Estate Agent or Car Salesperson you have ever met. You probably imagined them with a smile on their face.

2. Practice ahead of time. Make a video. Get honest feedback.

3. Use notes as guides, not as a scripted presentation. Use notes, but don't read them word for word.

4. Speak slowly. Tension makes people speak more quickly than they realize.

5. Pause before you answer. Watch a Bill Clinton debate. Politics aside, he is great in a debate. He takes a breath before speaking.

6. Focus on the other speakers. Make good eye contact. Give attention to Get attention.

7. Use positive body language and gestures.

8. Keep it short. Speak in bullet points. More isn't always better.

9. Vary your tone and pace. Be enthusiastic, soft, or quiet as appropriate. Monotones are bad.

10. Mind your manners. Say 'please' and 'thank you' appropriately. Take turns speaking.

11. Incorporate their words into yours. For example, if you are a Janitor and they refer to the position title as that of Custodian, a response might be “I have a great deal of experience as a Janitor Custodian...”. Speak their language where you can without coming across as a phoney.

I hope that the above tips are helpful to you, and can help in your job interviews.

Good luck and best wishes,

Chris