Interviewing: What are you saying without saying a word?
Posted by Lacey Graverson on Apr. 19, 2011 / Subscribe 0
An intern recently came to me, set to graduate in May, with no current job prospects. He expressed his concern with searching for a job and his fears about not finding anything with the current job market still in a downturn. He asked if I had any ideas on how he could stand out amongst the sea of other recent graduates vying for the same position. We discussed business card-sized USB drives printed to look like a business card, pre-loaded with his cover letter, resume and writing samples. We threw around the idea of building a website or LinkedIn page then creating a business card with a QR code that would lead recruiters to his information. All this technology and social media is out there to use, but is it really helping? Is it really making a difference for those searching for jobs?
In my personal opinion....no, it is not. Now let me clarify by saying that I have completed no research in the area, and maybe I am completely wrong. However, though I am in my twenties and embrace social media and technology in my personal and professional life, I believe it should be used for promotion, networking and social engagement. There is no need to be flashy or gimmicky when applying for a job. I think the best items you can take to an interview are a one-page typed resume with bullet points, knowledge of the position and the company, knowledge of what you are wanting in a career, confidence in your abilities, and a well-groomed appearance that includes a suit, pressed shirt and polished shoes. Don't hand me a QR code that I have to snap with a phone; don't give me a USB drive or a CD with your information; I want a one-page resume that I can quickly scan and know who you are, what you have done and where you want to go.
I think back to my nonverbal communications class in college, and I still remember our lessons on job interviews. Some of the tips that have always stuck with me are those that you may never think about when preparing for an interview.
1. Make sure you have clean, manicured fingernails. No dirt, no bright polish, nails all one length, and not too long.
2. Limit or eliminate perfume or cologne. You want to make sure the interviewer is focused on you, not your scent.
3. No fidgeting in the waiting room. There is always someone watching, and people talk. So, arrive fully prepared, sit straight, no phone calls, no Facebook, no emails, no gum, and no last-minute primping.
4. Give a nice firm handshake upon meeting everyone. And make eye contact.
5. Keep accessories, makeup, facial hair and hair product to a minimum.
Check out the following articles for more interview tips:
Believe What You See: How to Use Nonverbal Communication in Hiring
The Interview Advantage: How to Use Nonverbal Communication to Impress
How to Use Nonverbal Communication in a Job Interview
The Importance of Non-Verbal Communication in an Interview
With those interview tips in hand, go forth and confidently head to that next interview, remembering that actions can speak louder than words. By the way, things are looking up for the communications job market in Kansas City. In the first three months of 2011, we have posted 32 job openings on the Greater Kansas City PRSA website. At this time last year, we had only posted 20. So, keep the openings coming and we'll be sure to get them posted. And, if you're looking for a position, from internship to senior-level, please check out the Career Center on the website. Good luck, and happy interviewing.
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