6 Research-based Hacks to Crush Your Interviews
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Jonah Berger, a renowned Wharton marketing professor and best-selling author, recently published another great book, Magic Words: What to Say to Get Your Way. It underscores the profound impact of word selection on influencing others. Here are six powerful research-based techniques drawn from it to empower you to excel in interviews and networking meetings.
1. Embrace Certainty in Communication
Research reveals that speaking with certainty and authority significantly garners more attention than vague or hedged language. Phrases like "It's a fact that..." or "There's no doubt that..." hold more weight compared to phrases like "It's likely that..." or "It's possible that..." When possible, opt for authoritative and confident language that conveys conviction to make a lasting impression.
💡 Embrace authority and conviction in your communication for a convincing, lasting impact.
2. The Power of Seeking Advice
Contrary to common misconceptions, studies indicate that seeking advice doesn't diminish your stature in the eyes of others. Instead, it positions you as wise for valuing others' insights. Moreover, seeking advice fosters positive social bonds. Leverage this technique to gain industry insights and seamlessly build rapport.
💡 Don't hesitate to ask for advice—it's a potent strategy for learning and rapport-building.
3. Master the Art of Asking Great Questions
Crafting well-thought-out questions is a powerful way to exhibit engagement and steer conversations in your desired direction. Use questions strategically to deflect uncomfortable queries and guide discussions. For instance, if you are faced with the often ticklish question about what you want to be paid for a particular job, redirect the conversation by asking the interviewer “You hire for this role from time to time. What do you figure it should pay?”
💡 Elevate your conversations with well-crafted follow-up questions and adeptly redirect discussions.
4. Striking the Balance in Conversational Dynamics
Effective communication isn't just about listening or talking—it's about striking the right balance. While dominating conversations is counterproductive, allowing the other party to monopolize the discussion denies you the chance to showcase your strengths and value. Strike a healthy equilibrium to ensure you're both understood and appreciated.
💡 Maintain equilibrium between talking and listening for successful interview and networking interactions.
5. Embrace Imperfection Through Effective Storytelling
During interviews and meetings, share stories that include some challenges and setbacks. After all, imperfection is relatable and authentic. Demonstrating growth and learning from your experiences humanizes you and establishes a genuine connection. Inject "rollercoaster" moments in your stories to captivate your audience and sustain their interest.
💡 Infuse authenticity into your stories by acknowledging imperfections, fostering a genuine connection.
6. Overcome Negative Self-Talk to Improve Your Performance
Combat pre-interview jitters by adopting the third-person perspective. Address yourself with reassuring statements like "You've done this before. It's not so hard. You're going to ace it." This simple shift in self-talk can profoundly impact your performance and mindset.
💡 Leverage third-person self-talk to conquer negative thoughts and boost your confidence.
In Summary:
1. Avoid Hedgy Talk: Embrace authoritative language to enhance your impact.
2. It’s Beneficial to Seek Advice: Requesting advice showcases wisdom and builds connections.
3. Master The Art of Posing Insightful Questions: Being skilled at asking questions drives engagement and provides you greater control of a conversation.
4. Balance Communication: Achieve a healthy balance between speaking and listening.
5. Own Your Imperfections: Share relatable stories that highlight personal growth.
6. Tap the Power of Positive Self-Talk: Utilize third-person self-talk to conquer fears and self-doubt.
By integrating these six research-based techniques into your interview and networking repertoire, you'll set yourself up for resounding success. Embrace the power of words, engagement, and authenticity to make a lasting impact on those you encounter. As Jonah Berger's insights underscore, the magic lies in your ability to master these techniques.
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