Do you know that listening is a super power that can help your career?
Listening is a super power. Yes, that’s right! You may be reading this and think it is so easy! You may say I listen to people all the time. My question to you is, do you listen, I mean really listen, attentively and thoughtfully? Have you been introduced to someone, only to forget their name 10 seconds later? Perhaps you were more concerned about what you would say rather than actually listening to the other person’s introduction. If you tap into your listening super power during a job interview it could mean the difference between getting the offer or a dreaded rejection.
So there you are in the interview room. You may be nervous, excited, or both! Your interviewer arrives and extends her hand to greet you. You may think this is where I can jump in and wow my interviewer to show her that I am the right person for the job! Enthusiasm is wonderful, but beware of its pitfalls. Before you begin your spiel and explain how you think you can add value to that company, listen to what the interviewer has to say about the company’s culture, the specific position, and the company overall. Take a breath and then listen carefully to make sure you understand what the position involves, and how it’s a fit with your skills, abilities, and aspirations. Don’t make assumptions. Take advantage of all of the information that your interviewer offers you. In many cases you can build upon what she says to provide examples of how you are valuable and can help the company.
In order to answer questions to the best of your ability you must listen to what is being asked, as well as how it is being asked. I’ve had interviewees clearly space out during a question, only to fumble around for an answer that doesn’t come close to answering what was being asked of them. Who wants to work with someone every day that won’t even listen during an interview? Not many people. Not listening to your interviewer’s questions can be a sign of distraction and disrespect, both of which can count against you.
Guess what happens when you reconnect with people and reference something relevant they’ve told you in the past? They feel good because it is proof that you listened to them. Did their child get accepted to college, or did their department implement a new technological platform that was going to improve their functionality? Ask a follow-up to see how it’s going. That will allow you to strengthen your connection and build respect. It shows concern for others, and that you’re not just in it for your own gain. Implement this when it comes to interviews, networking, and client relationships. Communication is a two-way street, and you’ll get back what you put out there.
Listening seems simple, but is it? It is a skill that can be a bit tricky in the reality of our every day lives. Why? The world we live in places great importance on multi-tasking. Technology allows us to “chat” with countless people simultaneously. What it comes down to is your brain is working overtime to process all of the messages it receives and sends. Based on the massive amounts of data, you can’t keep up. As a result you miss a lot of what you are supposed to be hearing. So before you begin an interview, take a deep breath and focus on your interviewer. Make a conscious effort to listen carefully, and then knock her socks off with your knowledge and ability to provide incredible answers to her questions. What you learn by listening just might help shape your career future.
