To stress my point, I use a job interview scenario. Something most everyone can relate to and a skill at which we all wish to excel. Follow these simple tips and you’ll do just that.
Make a List
While there is a current HR trend towards unique interview questions, I still believe that most interviewees can guess about 80% of the questions they will be asked. Pull out a pen and paper and start thinking.
Craft Your Answers
You know that list you just made? Review it and map out your answers. Think them through and couch them in terms that will resonate with your audience (the interviewer). Trust me; nothing feels better than being asked an interview question that you already know the answer to. A positive byproduct of this is that you will exude confidence, which makes you an even more appealing candidate.
Speak Up
Don’t simple think through your answers, speak through them. Practice your delivery out loud several times and listen to how you sound. This extra step will go a long way toward improving your interview image.
Mind the Gap
Early in his working life, a friend of mine decided to follow his heart’s desire to be an actor. For 18 months, he lived off his savings, took classes, went to auditions and even landed a few roles. Still, he realized the actor’s life was not for him and returned to the corporate world. I admire him for following his dream, but I can’t forgive the fact that he didn’t anticipate that he would be asked about the one and a half years “missing” from his resume. Instead of stumbling through an apologetic reply, some preparation could spin this gap into a self-enhancing journey that makes him a better person today.
Remember, the next time you think you will be asked to speak impromptu, the preparation is in the anticipation.
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