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In today’s society, there is an emphasis on “finding one’s voice.” Social media, what used to be a platform for discussion, is now a vehicle for some individuals to express their strong opinions or beliefs through posts or video. Overall, with this cultural shift to express ourselves more, we have lost the art of listening. At Strategic Recruitment Solutions, we want you to succeed. That’s why we are here to remind you that listening is sometimes more powerful than speaking. Active listening during your next interview may not only help you land the job, but it may also help advance your career.
Each day we have more than a dozen conversations. Most these conversations will reveal much more than what is being discussed. That’s why during your interview, listening is crucial. An active listener will consider what the interviewers’ questions reveal. Listen well, and you can gain crucial information about the company. Furthermore, you will be able to show your interviewer your excellent communication skills.
As you are asked questions about your experience or skill set, you’re an experienced interviewer may be grading your listening skills. Here are some expert tips on how to actively listen during an interview:
1. Consider the Interviewer’s Purpose
The Human Resource Director or hiring manager is interviewing you to fulfill a need. Listen carefully to why the company is hiring now. Are they expanding or filling a position that was vacated by someone? If you are replacing someone, see if you can find out more about why your predecessor left.
2. Pay Attention
Your interviewer has experience spotting a good listener. Be sure to concentrate your eyes and ears on the person speaking. Also, answer the questions with a concise and practical response.
3. Express Curiosity
By asking for more details, you can show you are genuinely interested in the position. Thoughtful questions are always gain points in an interview.
4. Don’t Interrupt
Most importantly, a good listener is considerate and does not speak until the person that is finished speaking. Maintain a steady rhythm making sure you do not appear too anxious. Remember to breathe.
Implementing these four tips to improve your listening skills will separate you from other candidates. Learning to listen well will not only improve your communication skills overall, but it may also advance your career. Finally, every employer values a good communicator.
One of the most valuable, and underrated, interviewing skills is the ability to listen, pay attention to, understand and absorb what the other person is saying. Try to customize your answers based on what you learn from the interviewer so that you can emphasize the skills you have that are most applicable to the position.
For more than a decade, Strategic Recruitment Solutions has matched top companies with top talent. Therefore, we can provide access to positions in the Legal and IT fields that may not be advertised on job boards or a company’s website. Let us help you find your next job. Contact us today at (888) 366-6508.