Congratulations! You landed a job interview at a company that fits your personality and professional goals. You prepared answers to several common interview questions and thoroughly researched the employer. Don't forget to master the art of small talk, because it's very important to think of the interview as a conversation.
According to Lifehacker India, a Harvard Business Review study determined that interviewers often make hiring decisions based on how well the interviewee engages in small talk during interviews. People build relationships through good conversation, and employees must know how to comfortably engage in conversations with colleagues and potential customers. You build instant rapport when you make idle chit-chat with your interviewers before the structured portion of your face time begins.
Here are some tips for easily engaging in small talk during your interview.
1. Talk About Industry Trends
You already researched the company and the industry, but it's also important to research current events. This makes it easy to create small talk about the latest industry news or trends. Asking questions or making brief comments about current industry topics starts the conversation during your job interview and adds credibility and expertise to your list of soft skills.
2. Mention Mutual Friends
If you found out about the job opening through a mutual contact in your network, talk about that person. For example, you can say "Chuck in accounts receivable told me this is a great company to work for." Speaking positively about a mutual acquaintance can help you and the interviewer build a rapport.
3. Connect With Your Interviewers
Most professional workers have LinkedIn pages. Research your hiring manager or any of the recruiters who contacted you before your interview day. Small talk can revolve around the college someone attended, volunteer experiences or even previous employers.
4. Ask Questions
Your interviewers expect you to ask questions, so ask questions that can lead to small talk. For example, ask each of your interviewers what they enjoy most about about working for the company. Have a few questions in mind before you walk into the room.
5. Bring Up Company Culture
If you researched the company before the interview, you already know about the company culture and some of the great benefits offered to employees. Mention these topics during the interview. For instance, mention how much you like the laid-back, family atmosphere of the workplace. Perhaps you love the telecommuting option, so briefly talk about how working as a telecommuter would positively impact your job performance.
Small talk doesn't have to be awkward. Remember, your interviewers are also talking to a complete stranger, so they have to find common ground with you, too. Become comfortable as a conversation starter by researching potential colleagues on LinkedIn or finding industry-related news you can easily chat about during interviews.
Photo courtesy of aechan at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!