Effective communication consists of what you say and how you say it. Interviewers will often actually place more emphasis on the ‘how’, often without realising it.

By ‘how you say it’ I mean how you express yourself. This means your body language, confidence, manners and general approach. For example, asking a question at the start of the interview, irrespective of what the question is, shows confidence and a keen interest. This has just as much impact as smiling.

Mastering this approach is not beyond you. You need to:

• Take the initiative to shake hands and introduce yourself, rather than be asked

• Enter the room confidently

• Sit down only when invited to

• Mirror the body language if you can. At least ensure you don’t fidget, slouch or fold your arms.

• Use their name several times in conversation (if you’re unsure how to pronounce, make sure you ask upfront)

• Be friendly. Look the interviewer in the eye when you first meet and maintain good eye contact throughout.

• Be polite. Thank the interviewer for their time before and after, and say it has been very good to meet.

• Put a pen and paper in front of you and take notes – look interested and serious

• Ask a question in the first 5 minutes of the interview

• Listen carefully

• Be brief in your answers and keep to the point

• Answer questions with examples

If you consciously deliver all the above, you will be two thirds of the way to a job offer.

Controlling your nerves will affect your ability to do so. Remember, being nervous is natural and a good sign. Clammy hands, a fast heart rate and butterflies are your body’s natural way of meeting a challenge. Talk to the receptionist when you arrive. This is an incredibly simple and effective technique guaranteed to work.

Imagine how the interviewer will summarise you to their colleagues: ‘enthusiastic, genuinely interested in working here, confident, well prepared with good questions’ perhaps? A summary most interviewees will only ever dream of.

Best of luck,

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