Interview Skills; Definition and Examples
A job interview is an opportunity to showcase your personality highlight your strengths. Make a positive impression, on potential employers. Having interview skills like maintaining an attitude being improvest communicating effectively and actively listening can greatly influence the hiring decision in your favour. Therefore it’s important to develop these interview abilities to improve your chances of securing your desired job position. In this article we will explain what interview skills are and why they are important. We will also provide ten examples. Explore some top interview techniques.
Interview skills refer to your ability to engage with employers or interviewers and demonstrate why you are the candidate for the job. These skills offer insights, into how you communicate in the workplace solve problems effectively listen actively and maintain improvesty in your work. Together these aspects indicate how well you would fit into their work environment.
During an interview employers not pay attention to your answers. Also observe non verbal cues you display while responding to questions. For instance tapping your foot during a conversation may indicate nervousness. Having a set of skills is essential, in setting yourself from other candidates who have similar qualifications and work experience.
Interviewing skills play a role as they give your employer confidence in your ability to handle job responsibilities and meet daily objectives. Additionally these skills allow employers to assess whether your qualifications, experience and demeanour align with their requirements. For example when hiring for a customer service role employers may prioritise interview skills such as communication and self assurance due to the importance of confident customer interactions.
Out of all the interview skills verbal communication stands out as the vital. It empowers you to effectively communicate information about your education, abilities and professional background to employers. Having communication skills enables you to provide well thought out responses during interviews significantly increasing your chances of securing the position.
During interviews you have an opportunity to showcase your skills that can bring added value to an organisation. Here are some illustrative examples;
Research Efficiently; Demonstrating competence in research can greatly enhance your performance during interviews. When you analyse the job description and customise your resume accordingly it shows that you are prepared. By researching the company you can confidently answer questions, like “Why do you want to work for this company?”. Adequate preparation for interview questions, such as “Tell me about yourself” or “What’re your greatest weaknesses ” demonstrates your commitment and seriousness towards the role. It’s important to tailor your responses to match the job requirements.
Effective verbal communication involves speaking coherently and at a pace. This skill ensures that your message is conveyed comprehensively and confidently. Employers pay attention to verbal cues, including body language, posture, gestures, facial expressions and eye contact. Maintaining eye contact and projecting a demeanour are essential, for interview success.
Effective Time Management; Being punctual reflects your skills and dedication. Arriving at the interview location, in advance and efficiently managing your time during the interview demonstrate your reliability.
Confidence is Key; Projecting your self assurance is vital to build trust in your abilities. Avoid fidgeting and greet with a handshake, maintain eye contact whilst responding confidently to questions.
Listening Matters; Active listening is just as important as answering questions. It shows your engagement and seriousness towards the role. Asking questions based on the interviewers statements demonstrates participation and understanding. It also shows initiative.
Embrace a Positive Attitude; A positive attitude can greatly influence the hiring decisions and help you with a leg in the door. It can work in your favour. Responding optimistically to questions about jobs and using language while presenting your qualifications can have a significant impact on the final choice.
Politeness Matters; Display politeness throughout all interactions during the interview process from the receptionist to HR professionals. It highlights your ability to work harmoniously with others and it sometimes gets back to the interviewers.
Honesty: Honesty is a characteristic that makes you an attractive candidate. People build relationships with those that they can trust. Providing information on your resume and offering responses during interviews are crucial for building trust with potential employers.
Top Interview Strategies
To increase your chances of success during job interviews consider the following five strategies;
- Make a Positive First Impression; The first impression you make carries weight. Present yourself professionally and confidently right from the beginning.
- Dress Appropriately; Choose attire that aligns with the companys culture and reflects professionalism.
- Improve Interview Skills; work on enhancing your interview abilities through practice and seeking feedback. Implement the STAR Technique; The STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method is highly effective, for addressing behavioural and situational interview questions. It allows you to provide concise responses using real life examples.
- Be Honest and dont lie: Use body language and good communication to build rapport and come across genuinely interested in the role. Your resume may look good, but if you dont smile it wont work.
- Express Appreciation After the Interview; Sending a thank you note after the interview demonstrates gratitude and professionalism.
By mastering these interviewing skills and techniques you will be able to navigate interviews and increase your chances of securing your desired job role. Learning more about any of the above skills will put you ahead of the rest and ahead of the game. Ask our team how we can provide interview coaching or a 1 on 1 for you to give you the advantage.
David Alssema is a Body Language Expert and Motivational Speaker. As a performer in the personal development industry in Australia he has introduced and created new ways to inspire, motivate and develop individuals.
David Alssema started his training career with companies such as Telstra and Optus Communications, and then developed Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) within workplace training as principal of Paramount Training & Development.
As an author/media consultant on body language and professional development David has influenced workplaces across Australia. He contributes to Media such as The West Australian, ABC Radio, Australian Magazines and other Australia Media Sources.
