Breaking Down the 5’s: Communication

Communication is essential in building successful relationships. Effective communication is important whether in your personal life or professional environment. It involves clear and articulated thoughts. It also requires active listening and engaging in meaningful dialogue. Candidates should speak clearly and use specific examples to illustrate their skills. Maintaining eye contact, good posture, and open body language are essential. I can tell when a candidate is not sitting up straight during a phone interview. Their tone of voice lacks energy, which affects how their message is received. Additionally, candidates must actively listen to the interviewer. They should ask insightful questions. They also need to respond concisely and positively. Doing so builds rapport and demonstrates their suitability for the role.

I’ve recruited a wide range of talent over the years, but one experience stands out. I was recruiting for a Communications Manager position. During the interview, the applicant struggled to articulate the details of their day-to-day responsibilities. Instead of providing specific examples, they offered a broad overview of what an ideal Communications Manager typically does.
It made me pause and question whether I had asked the right question. I revisited my interview format and rephrased the question to be more targeted. The applicant then became frustrated. They expressed that I wasn’t accepting their original response. They stated, “As you can see on my resume.”

The statement “As you can see on my resume” often signals a missed opportunity to elaborate and engage. It can be particularly frustrating. It also suggests that the applicant is annoyed by an HR professional’s effort to better understand their skills. An interview is an opportunity for a candidate to truly shine. It is a moment where candidates can confidently showcase their strengths. They do this professionally. Through thoughtful and articulate responses, they earn their “bragging rights.”

Why It Matters

• Clarity: Ensures your ideas and qualifications are clearly understood.
• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates your ability to collaborate and interact effectively within a team.
• Problem Resolution: Strong communicators can navigate conflicts and identify solutions efficiently.
  • Use Specific Examples:
    • Illustrate your skills and experiences with concrete examples, ideally using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
    • Tell Your Story: Combine your technical expertise with compelling narratives to leave a stronger impression on the interviewer.
    • Research the Company: Gain a clear understanding of the company’s culture and the role’s requirements to tailor your responses effectively.

How to Demonstrate Communication Skills

• Clear Responses: Give direct and concise answers without unnecessary elaboration.
  • Keep Your Answers Focused
  • Avoid rambling or taking two minutes to respond to something that is answered in twenty seconds. “Yes” or “no” responses are insufficient on their own. Still, it’s important not to lose the interviewer’s attention with overly lengthy explanations.
  • Be mindful of your speaking volume during conversations or presentations.
    • Example:
      • Hiring Manager: “It seems like you only stayed at the Curriculum Coordinator for four months. Why is there a short duration here, especially compared to your other roles. Can you tell me what happened?”
      • Candidate: “Sure. I took the job while I was searching for an Assistant Director after moving to Dallas. A preschool near my home suddenly had an opening, and I accepted the role. My supervisor was very understanding. I continued to help until she found a replacement.”

• Active Listening: Displays engagement through eye contact, appropriate facial expressions, and responsive body language. Listen First. Then answer.
  • Non-Verbal Cues: Use appropriate gestures and expressions to reinforce your verbal communication.
    • Smile and Nod: shows enthusiasm and actively listening through nods shows engagement and a positive attitude.
    • Control Nervous Habits: Monitor and control any nervous tics to ensure a professional and calm demeanor

• Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare thoughtful questions about the role or organization to reflect your interest and understanding.
  • I always suggest writing questions down on a notepad and bringing them during the interview with the hiring manager
  • Ask questions about them!!
    • Example: “I understand that your company regularly participates in volunteer activities. May I ask when your next volunteer project is scheduled, and which charity you’ll be partnering with?”

You Got This!!

Incorporate a touch of humor, depending on the interviewer’s personality and tone. Just make sure it remains professional. Remember, the goal of the interview is to establish a genuine connection with the interviewer. You’re more likely to build rapport by engaging thoughtfully and communicating effectively. Companies are not seeking perfect employees — perfection does not exist. Hiring managers are looking for individuals who can contribute meaningfully to the team and grow with the organization.