Strong interview skills relate heavily to a person's communication skills. Having good communication in the workplace is of high importance. If a candidate interviews well during the interview, it's a safe bet they will probably be a strong communicator in the workplace.
Mary,
Very true. Good interview skills are really just good communication skills, which are essential in any position we have.
Elizabeth Kemler
Developed interviewing skills can be an asset to any graduate. Alot of graduates will eventually become office managers and supervisors. The interviewing skills they learn can be used to assist them in conducting interviews of others. Most graduates will have severla different positions within the forst few years after graduating and developed interviewing skills makes selling themselves to new employers that much easier for the.
Kallie,
I have heard from so many employers that communication skills-and particularly active listening-is what they are looking for even beyond expertise in the field. It's great to see so many career services professionals like yourself putting due emphasis on this.
Elizabeth Kemler
I agree with so many of these replies. Effective interview skills are invaluable in the workplace. By possessing these skills students have the ability to communicate more effectively with their clients/customers, management and fellow colleagues. Active listening is very high on the list of attributes our employers are looking for; they would like to see qualified and confident graduates without entitlement or concrete, unwavering ideas. When interviewing a person is forced to listen and respond in a way that is fulfilling the question of the interviewer. This may include additional explanation and should be provided in a way that is positive, professionalism, easy to understand and that involves a complete answer. These types of skills are very important when they are making a transition into a different type of environment within their field of study.
Paulette,
Agreed on all counts; again, expressed eloquently and succinctly.
Elizabeth Kemler
Communication is the crux of the workplace. I don't know of any jobs that don't involve communication on some level. All of the skills one learns & uses during the interview process are continuously used in the workplace.
In order to secure an interview you must be able to write a concise cover letter & resume.
To secure the job and be successful at it you must be able to read business documents; consistently arrive to work & meetings on time and prepared; effectively speak with customers & co-workers; listen to what is being said to you and respond in the appropriate (professional) manner; and have good eye contact & body language when talking to someone. You have to be a team player, discuss problems, give instructions, and interact with a variety of people within the course of your job.
In order to advance yourself within your career you will continue to develop your skill sets and promote yourself as a valued team member. You will need to communicate your ideas, offer constructive feedback and help the organization move forward.
Michael,
This is so true; the interview tells the employer so much about the person being interviewed. It's also one a truly daunting experience for many people and takes a great deal of preparation and practice to get to where you feel sure enough of yourself and what you have to say. Obviously this is something you already know!
Elizabeth Kemler
Having strong interview skills and a comfort with speaking to a employer also displays your ability to speak to clients or people when you first interact with them. Some employers will use the interview as a gadge to see how you interact with some you have never met and make them feel at ease speaking with you. If you seem nervous, uneducated or unsure about anything causes distrust on what you are speaking and will not make a session go as well as it could. Take charge you are the professional and teacher in this situation so teach and share your knowledge and do not be afraid to let your personality show.
Developing effective interview skills help students suceed in the workplace because when you practice acting/interacting one way you make it a habit. You want to make sure that you form positive habits within the workplace. These habits will insure that you are able to grow within your work environment.
Tara,
Yes absolutely-and the awareness piece is the best place to start vs just telling them what they are 'supposed' to do.
Elizabeth Kemler
Colleen,
Very true-and these skills are applicable anywhere with anyone.
Elizabeth Kemler
Juan ,
Very true-these are skills that improve communication across the board.
Elizabeth Kemler
Having effective interview skills demonstrates confidence and shows that the student can work underpressue and think on their feet.
When a student is able to interview effectively it will allow them the ability to ask questions and team build with new co workers. Interviewing an important tool when developing a solid foundation.
Effective interview skills are essentially good communication skills. A student who knows how to present things in the best light (honestly), make good eye contact, and ask well-thought-out questions will likely be a good communicator on the job.
I wholeheartedly agree. Enthusiasm is contagious. Someone who is very natural & "knows" themselves will exude confidence in an interview & be an inspiration to colleagues.
I believe they go hand-in-hand. Being successful in presenting yourself to a potential employer requires awareness of how one carries themselves, i.e. posture, attitude, courtesy in speech & actions, as well as hygiene. If one can hit all the marks, they will be a valued employee & coworker.
Pamela,
I am a big fan of doing ongoing mock interviews with different types of personalities playing the role of interviewer.
Elizabeth Kemler
Confidence is built when you know what to expect. We have a very diverse group of students, some who have never been on interviews and others who have been on several, but they need to feel confident in their answers regarding this particular career. Holding mock interviews helps them all build the confidence they need when walking into an interview.
