Stand out to your potential employer – Boost your job search with better communication
When job seeking, it’s common to come across job ads specifying their desires for what they want from their next candidate, such as:
- Someone who is collaborative/can work well in a team environment,
- and possess excellent communication skills.
Employers seek these sought-after qualities in their employees to avoid miscommunication, confusion, mistakes, disputes and disruption in their business.
Stepping out of your comfort zone to strengthen your communication skills can feel daunting, but the ability to communicate and connect better with others is extremely important not only for employers but in all aspects of life.
Communication in the workplace comes in various forms, including reading, writing, talking, body language and listening. From face-to-face interactions, including verbal and non-verbal communication. Communication via a phone call, emails, video conferencing, social platforms and the use of work management software tools. You need to be clear on the best way to communicate and be adaptable to suit the situation and your audience.
At our parent company, Key Business Advisors, we conducted a workplace exercise where we asked each team member to share their top tip for effective communication.
Here, we provide authentic industry insights to assist you in enhancing your communication skills:
1. Be Clear and Concise
Whether you’re sending your message via email or face-to-face, aim to communicate your message with precise language to get your point across.
2. Be Open and Honest
Being open and honest with your communication will help build strong teams and trust with your colleagues.
3. Take Note of your Body Language and Tone of Voice
How you say something, the expression on your face, the body language you display, and when you say things can often have a greater impact than the actual words you are expressing. Think about how you will deliver your message.
4. Be Mindful of How Your Communication is Received
Think about what you say, the words you use and their possible effect on your listener. This is about being considerate and showing empathy.
5. Listen
Listening is a form of communication and is just as important as talking. Listen to what the other person has to say and try to understand their ideas and their points of view. The conversation should be a 2-way communication.
6. Talk to Avoid Miscommunication
Text messages and emails can sometimes be misread. Follow up with a conversation. Talking face-to-face or over the phone can often avoid miscommunication.
7. Be Calm
The ability to stay calm when communicating in all situations is a powerful and effective tool.
8. Check for Understanding
Check on the understanding of the person you are communicating with, and in the same way, if you don’t understand, speak up. Ask questions to clarify. Having clarity ensures you are on the same page when having a conversation.
What to do in an Interview
In an interview, there is a lot you can do to demonstrate your strong communication skills.
- Be conscious of your body language
- Ensure a clear tone of voice
- Greet your interviewer with a firm handshake (if appropriate)
- Maintain eye contact with the person you are speaking with
- Listen to the questions being asked and answer the specific questions
- Be engaging in the conversation, so it’s a two-way conversation
- Take initiative by asking questions.
- And don’t forget to send a thank you email or text message following the interview, as this demonstrates you are keen for the job.
Employers who advertise for a new position are seeking staff who are job-ready.
Start learning these essential skills today and walk into your interview with confidence, knowing what is expected of you as an employee. Be a stand-out candidate in the interview process and land the job you are after.
Keyba Careers’ short courses cover a range of essential topics including sales techniques, employment strategies, expectations of employers, how to conduct yourself in an interview, CV and resume help, customer service skills and more. Start building the foundations for your future success with Keyba Careers.
