HireVetsFirst (home) American Excellence at Work
Topics - Interviews - Sharpen Listening Skills
Getting Started Topics Resources Support & Assistance Search Site Help
 
4. INTERVIEWS
  4.6 SHARPEN LISTENING SKILLS
   
  What to Do
 
 
  1. If distractions are a problem in an interview, you can control them in the following ways:
    • If the distraction is external, control it by focusing your concentration.
    • If the distraction is internal (inside your head), control it by reminding yourself to pay attention and try to relax.
 
  1. Paraphrase the interviewer’s comments by restating the main idea or content to:
    • check and clarify accuracy;
    • let the interviewer know you understand; and
    • encourage more discussion
 

Woman

  1. Focus on key words, main ideas, and examples to help you retain important points.
 
  1. Ask questions if you do not understand what the interviewer is saying or asking. Do not pretend to understand if you do not understand.
 
  1. Take notes only if it will not distract you from the conversation. Write them in a list or outline form. Always ask the interviewer’s permission before taking notes.
 
  1. Make sure you understand what you are being asked.
   
   
   
 
Go Back One Page
Go To Next Page
© 2005