The following strategies are the bedrock of great interview answers:
1. TALK IN A CONVERSATIONAL TONE. Q&A is essentially a formal conversation.
Without being too casual (using slang,
filler words, etc.), be conversational with your answers. Change the pace of your voice. Look the interviewer or panel members directly in the eye. Don't worry about saying the exact right
thing. If you say something that needs
adjusted, do so. Back up and say it
again the right way. If you need to,
talk about the process. IE - "that is a great question", "I have studied that subject for two years now, but the answer to that question is
escaping me at the moment."
2. ANSWER IN LIST FORM. This strategy is especially important because the individual(s) interviewing you probably have interviewed many other people just before you. They are in information overload mode. This is also a valuable tactic if you tend to ramble during your answers, which can happen to even a seasoned pro. List form is exactly what the name implies. As the question is being asked, you quickly think of two or three answers. When you begin your answer, you say something similar to, "There are three great ways to answer your question." And then you take them through the three answers. This is effective because if gives your answer structure (to keep you from rambling) and it helps the interviewer(s) have a clear and concise method for following your answer.
3. USE AN ANCHOR WORD OR PHRASE. If the answer doesn't demand length, try the anchor word or phrase strategy. This is where you begin with one word or phrase that most accurately sums up your answer. Then you give one or two supporting points. Most times simple and brief will be received better than detailed and extravagant.
4. TELL STORIES. This is essential if you want to be remembered and want to most effectively communicate your ideas and experiences. Great story-telling demonstrates a depth of knowledge, an attention to detail and it gives your answers faces and places the judges can relate to quickly. Remember to give your story meaning by tightly connecting the story to their question quickly.
2. ANSWER IN LIST FORM. This strategy is especially important because the individual(s) interviewing you probably have interviewed many other people just before you. They are in information overload mode. This is also a valuable tactic if you tend to ramble during your answers, which can happen to even a seasoned pro. List form is exactly what the name implies. As the question is being asked, you quickly think of two or three answers. When you begin your answer, you say something similar to, "There are three great ways to answer your question." And then you take them through the three answers. This is effective because if gives your answer structure (to keep you from rambling) and it helps the interviewer(s) have a clear and concise method for following your answer.
3. USE AN ANCHOR WORD OR PHRASE. If the answer doesn't demand length, try the anchor word or phrase strategy. This is where you begin with one word or phrase that most accurately sums up your answer. Then you give one or two supporting points. Most times simple and brief will be received better than detailed and extravagant.
4. TELL STORIES. This is essential if you want to be remembered and want to most effectively communicate your ideas and experiences. Great story-telling demonstrates a depth of knowledge, an attention to detail and it gives your answers faces and places the judges can relate to quickly. Remember to give your story meaning by tightly connecting the story to their question quickly.
Interview coaching for many different situations is a core service we provide. Drop us a call (405.517.7385) or a note (rhett (at) yournextspeaker.com) to learn more about how we can help you sharpen this valuable skill.
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