Lesson I.

The Oral Presentation

Preparing A Speech or Oral Report

Being able to speak effectively in front of an audience will always be an advantage. Some professionals
become most sought-after speakers because of their good oral communication skills. They are invited to
give keynote speeches or give lectures on a select topic in conferences or give trainings in seminar-
workshops. Sometimes, they are also tapped to give a sales pitch or a product presentation. Likewise,
they are asked to deliver inspirational or motivational speeches during graduation ceremonies or in a
similar communication setting.

You already learned some tips from the topics “General Principles of Effective Communication” and
“Principles of Effective Oral Communication.” These principles are related to public speaking. Consider
the following so you can render an effective speech and be a good public speaker:

1. Audience – Know the profile of your listeners. It is important that you know who will listen to
you – their age, gender, educational background, religion, economic status, and interests. Also,
know how much the audience knows about the topic. That way, you can avoid discussing points
that would run contrary to their beliefs and practices and thus prevent miscommunication and
misunderstanding. Further, you can introduce new things for them to learn and not simply
repeat things that they may have already learned from previous speakers. Know how to read the
posture and gestures of your audience members as these will signal to you what kind of an
audience they are. Be ready to face different kinds of audiences as there may be some who are
questioners, hecklers, disrupters, hostile, or unresponsive/bored audiences. Know how to deal
with any unpleasant incident or conflict with your audience and always stay in control of the
situation.

2. Logistics – It is something basic or essential for every speaker to know who is organizing the
event. Know who will be introducing you and who will be speaking before and after you. That
way, you will be able to tie up the earlier presentation with your own resulting in a more
coherent presentation. You may even give the audience an idea as to what the next talk is going
to be.
 2.1. Venue – The venue is equally important. Locate the lights and if you have movable visual
aids, know where to position them. As a speaker, you should also know how to position yourself
and how you should move in front to get the attention of the listeners. Remember to work on
your posture and avoid bad habits when speaking. Do not block the view of your visual aids as
you present them. Employ a balanced posture by not standing on one leg only. Do not lean on
any object that will give support to your weight. These postures give the impression that you
lack confidence and authority.

2.2. Facilities – Ask beforehand about the pieces of equipment available for you. These facilities
should match the presentation aids that you will use. If there is no available projector, find a
way to have one especially if your visual aids are highly complex. If there are any electrical
problems or technical glitches you encounter, know how to trouble-shoot them.

3. Content of report/speech/lecture – Since you have been invited as a speaker, the organizers
might have sought you because of your reputation as an effective speaker. If the purpose of the
event is to inform just like in a convention, conference, or a training-seminar, it is expected that
you are able to contribute new information. If the purpose is to entertain, your speech should
be lighthearted, amusing, and lively. If the purpose is to persuade, your presentation should
sound convincing enough. Note, however, that any communicative event may have more than
one purpose but there is always a more dominant one.

So how do you prepare for the big event? The following are some tips for you:

1. Read a lot. Research on the topic assigned to you. With the fast-changing times, it is certain
that there are new developments that have occurred in the field. As a speaker, you should be
kept abreast of these new developments by reading a lot.

2. Prepare your oral presentation with an introduction, body, and a conclusion. There are
different techniques to open and close your presentation: (a) using a startling or shocking
 statement; (b) beginning with a question; (c) using a quotation; (d) narrating an anecdote or a
story; € singing a line from a song; and (f) presenting statistics. The strategy you will employ
should match the topic that you will present. For example, you cannot sing a happy song if the
topic has something to do with a tragic event. Remember that your introduction and concluding
parts will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

As regards the body of your presentation, emphasize the major points you wish to make backed up with
supporting statements to further elucidate your main points. Arrange your thoughts in a logical
sequence so your listeners can easily follow through your talk. You can do this by employing transitional
or cohesive devices to make your ideas coherent.

3. Rehearse by practicing aloud and getting the feedback of those who will act as your audience
during the rehearsal stage. You may invite your family or friends to listen to you while
rehearsing. Their comments and suggestions can be useful for you to improve your presentation
before the ‘big day.’

For the introduction, use gambits such as:

a. I would like to talk about…

b. I believe that the topic is…

c. Let me relate a…

For the conclusion, use gambits or expression such as:

 a. Summing up the points I discussed earlier…

b. To summarize…

c. In conclusion…

d. To conclude…

e. Finally…

f. To end my talk or speech…

Then restate the highlights you mentioned. You may also challenge the listeners to act on the ideas you
presented if the purpose of the oral presentation is to convince or persuade.

4. Use technology. In this day and age, most speakers use technology. Technology forms part of
their audio and visual aids. Through these tools, listeners can easily follow the discussion
because they not only hear but also see the highlights of the presentation. A disadvantage,
however, is that some speakers rely on their visuals that when technical problems arise, they
are caught off-guard and their presentation goes awry.

Technology tools should be used sparingly. Visuals should be utilized only to enhance your
presentations. Thus, do not copy and paste on the slides what you are to say and then simply read them
verbatim. It is important that you only use key words in your slide presentations. Pictures that will
represent a concept are also encouraged. The same is true with graphs, tables, charts, maps, quotes,
and important passages and sayings.
Delivering the Report/Speech/Talk

Now that you have prepared your report/speech/talk, you are ready to make your oral presentation.
You have spent a great deal of time reading, researching, and writing this oral output so you should also
do your best to deliver it confidently.

When you deliver your report, speech or talk, make use of both the verbal and non-verbal code. You
already learned that effective communication calls for the blending of the two codes. These two are
always link together. While the former is important, the latter is equally essential as it gives emphasis to
a striking thought or idea.

1. Paralinguistic cues –Subsumed under this category are facial expression, posture,
gesture, and movement. For eye rates: For facial expression, they eyes and eye-to-eye
contact are very important. There is the saying which states: “The eyes are the window
to the soul.” This means that by establishing eye contact or through gazing, one can
detect the emotional state of a person. For example, it is difficult real emotions and fake
your feelings when people look hide your straight into your eyes. When you are happy,
your eyes become bigger without you being conscious about I it. When you are sad,
worried or anxious, your eyes become smaller as you raise your eyebrows and make
them furrow.

Posture, on the other hand, refers to the speaker’s stance. How speakers carry themselves during the
presentation will show whether or not they possess credibility. It is important that as speakers deliver
their messages, they project an air of confidence so they can get the attention of the listeners and win
them over to their side.
So how do you execute a correct posture? Simply stand comfortably with your feet at least six to eight
inches apart, with one foot over the other. Your weight should also rest on the balls of your feet and
your hands should hang naturally at the sides. Ask yourself if you are comfortable enough with the way
you stand.

Another important variable is gesture. Speakers who employ gestures in their speeches or reports are
more convincing than those who do not. Gestures are used to make a point more emphatic. However,
they should be used only for important points raised as they can become distractive when used often.
Gestures abound so a speaker should know how to create variety.

Finally, there is movement. Whereas gestures are made by some parts of the body such as the hand and
the arm, the entire body (e.g., movement of the head, shoulder, and feet, etc.). Swaying one’s body
from left to right, side-to-side, front to back, or pacing from one side of the stage/platform to the other,
can be exhibiting a non-verbal cue. A speaker should know how to move on so that his/her movement
will not be distracting to the audience.

It is to be noted that while dress or attire is not considered as paralinguistic cue, it is still classified as
non-verbal. One way to attract the attention of the audience is by dressing up properly. As a speaker,
you should look good and pleasing to the eyes of the listeners. Dress appropriately but do not overdo as
it may create a gap between you and the audience. You should be well-groomed with your hair neatly-
combed and your shoes well-polished. Pieces of jewelry or fasshion accessories should also be used
conservatively.

2. Prosodic features – When making a presentation, there are features that you need to
observe. When you speak, aim at delivering your message clearly through intelligible
and comprehensible pronunciation. You need to articulate the sounds clearly by paying
 attention to how you move your lips, tongue, and teeth. An aspect of articulation is
assimilation. It means blending the final sound of a preceding word with the initial
sound of the following word. Consider the examples:

A. To each his own

To eachizown

b. the pros and cons

the prosend cons

c. the splendor in the grass

thus plendor in the grass

d. for a while

for a while

Try reading the examples above. Blend the sounds. Do you think you were able to achieve assimilation?

Finally, note that successful communication depends on prosodic features such as intonation, tone,
stress, and rhythm. Pauses on phrases and likewise prosodic features. While it is impossible to imitate or
sound like Americans or the British who use English as their native tongue, try to at least approximate
them. If listeners cannot understand what you say because the rate or speed by which you speak, do it
more slowly.
Presenting in Groups

The earlier discussions apply to both individual and group presentations. However, when making a
group presentation, everyone should be a team player and members should not compete with each
other. Note that since you are working with a team, there should be coordination among you.
Guidelines should be strictly followed especially if it is a group task. Planning is of the essence that your
presentation is coherent and does not become fragmented. As you prepare your presentation, note the
following tips:

1. Assign a specific task to each group member.

2. Divide the work accordingly. Each should know the part assigned to him/her as well as the time
allotted to each.

3. Decide on a strategy as to how you will begin and end your group presentation.

4. Prepare your audio-visual aids to hold the attention and increase the interest of the listeners.

5. Practice on your own. Then come up with a schedule acceptable to the team in which you can
rehearse as a group.

6. Get feedback from your teammates as to how you still improve your presentation in particular
as presentation of the group in general.
 7. As individual and group presenters, think of possible questions that may arise after the
presentation. If you cannot think of an answer, seek the help of your groupmates.

8. As individual and group presenters, respond to questions effectively during the question time. If
it happens that nobody from the group knows the answer, be honest to admit that you will find
time to research on the matter.

Overcoming Anxiety or Stage Fright

Many speakers become tense when making small and big presentations. This is normal. Becoming
nervous only shows that you care about your presentation. You are concerned about whether the
audience will pick up something from your talk. Note that a little amount of nervous tension is needed if
you aspire for an excellent performance. At the beginning, you may experience anxiety, but as you go
along with your presentation, your nervous tension will ease up.

Eugene White and Claire Henderlinder (1956) stated that: “We do not actually fear the process of
speaking but the negative response from the listeners.” This is indeed true. What people actually fear is
not the process of speaking but the negative response, comment, or feedback from the listeners.

There are ways by which you can overcome stage fright. One way is by preparing thoroughly for your
presentation. It is important that you know about the topic and that you know more than your listeners.
Another way is to practice. The more you practice or rehearse, the more confident you become.

Stage fright then can be minimized. It is not also a negative feeling all the time. Learn how to convert
this social fear into something positive so that you can aspire for top performance
 Lesson 2. The Debate
Types of Debate

You may not be aware of it but you use debates even in your daily activities. You hear people argue in
different domains – home, school, office, market, church, and in the government. This is so because a
debate, loosely defined, involves the exchange of opposing ideas or arguments. A debate, which is
carried out in a formal manner, usually takes place in a public meeting. The exchange of arguments
follows a certain procedure or a set of rules and has a definite format.

There are two types of debate: the formal and the informal. Formal debates are held in formal settings
such as in school, in the House of Representatives, and in the Senate. Debaters come prepared,
equipped with the knowledge they need to be able to reason out effectively. A topic is debated upon
and the debaters listen to the arguments raised by the other debaters from which they build their
arguments and argue their position.

Informal debates, on the other hand, do not follow strictly a structure. While there are also two sides –
the affirmative and the negative – it takes place anywhere and does not have to involve two teams. It
may take place between two or more people, arguing for or against a certain issue. An example would
be two friends, deciding where to eat their lunch for the day.

Skills Needed in Debate

You need all the language macro-skills to be an effective debater. The productive and receptive skills
work together and are not independent of each other. Certainly, these skills should go with critical
thinking especially since listening, speaking, reading, writing, and viewing can only be successful if
practiced with critical thinking. As you listen, speak, and read, you also need to take down notes so note-
taking is imperative.

1. Reading – For you to become a successful debater, you should be a wide reader. Sir Francis
Bacon once said: “Reading maketh a full man, writing an exact man.” What does this mean?
From what angle or perspective can you explain this quote? Many say that through reading, you
can visit places, experience other cultures, and learn new things. In fact, if you read extensively,
you are able to look at things differently. Your knowledge of things is not restricted to a single
perspective but to many. You are able to weigh things more objectively because you have
 gained a deeper understanding of life. Such is the beauty of being a book lover a passionate
reader.

2. Speaking – Your being a voracious reader or a bookworm will certainly manifest itself in the
way you speak. You never run out of thoughts and words once you are asked on a certain topic.
The knowledge you have gained from reading can manifest in your wide vocabulary and in a
distinct use of a speaking style that can change the minds of your listeners, sway and win them
over to your side. When you speak, always remember that you should articulate your thoughts
very well, pronounce clearly the words you utter, use the appropriate rate and volume, speak
with grammatical accuracy, maintain the correct bearing or poise, and employ non-verbal code
such as gestures, facial expression, and movement.

3. Writing – It is in the writing skill where the ‘making of a full man’ is achieved. Reading and
writing are skills that go together. As a passionate reader, you increase your vocabulary
significantly. You are able to express in writing your full understanding of yourself, the world you
are in, your views about lite, and your perspectives of people. But you become only a full man if
you are able to adjust to the needs of the time and are mindful of your shared responsibility to
help improve other people’s lives.

4. Listening – Though not usually emphasized, listening is equally important as the other skills.
Thus, it should not be taken for granted. Just like reading and writing, listening and speaking go
together. In a debate, if you do not listen carefully to the arguments of your colleagues and the
members of the opposing team, you cannot build on your teammate’s arguments and refute
convincingly the claims of the other team, respectively. Jimmy Hendrix once said: “Knowledge
speaks but wisdom listens.” Indeed, this is true. For aside from reading, it is only through
listening intently that you are able to gain knowledge and wisdom. It is also through listening
that you are able to show respect to others.

Ethical Considerations

Freely and Steinberg (2014) in their book Argumentation and Debate: Critical Thinking for Reasoned
Decision Making define ethics as “a set of constructs that guide our decision making by providing
standards of behavior telling us how we ought to act” (p. 105).
However, they have added different ways of conceptualizing ethics as follows:

1. Ethics may be thought of as a complex foundation of morally based rules, as might be adhered
to within a culture of a group.

2. Ethics may provide specific guidelines for individuals or groups engaged in similar activities or
with occupational concerns, for example, business ethics or sportsmanship. 3. Ethics may
characterize the way people think of themselves and the self-applied measures for right
behavior based in personality or experience which guide them to virtuous or appropriate
behavior.

3. Ethics may construct a general or universal set of values, guiding a broader understanding about
the human condition born of philosophical commitment, constructs, and motives.

Debates, therefore, question issues of right and wrong including the applications of standards of ethics.
At times, people also find themselves challenging their own ethical standards. It is difficult to assume
that just because a debater sees something to be unacceptable, then it really is. Assumptions lead to
poor arguments and poor decision-making. Remember that people have differing ethical assumptions
about this world. They have different ways of viewing things.

It is essential not to make sweeping statements when laying down arguments as these may pave the
way for the opposing team to question the claims.
Dress and Appearance

You should be mindful of how you look in a forma debate. Your appearance is just as important as the
paralinguistic cues and non-verbal behavior. If you are a female speaker, wear a business attire that will
make you look respectable. Do not wear color that are ostentatiously attractive. Very high-heeled shoes
and flat shoes should also be avoided. Instead, wear heels that are manageable, for example, 1 ½ to 2
inches. Make-up and jewelry should also be worn conservatively.

For males, you also need to wear business attire, avoiding loud colors. Should you wear a coat and tie,
do not wear a tie that comes in flashy or glaring colors. You should be able to match your inner clothes
with your outer clothes. Do not wear large ornaments. Your nails should be cut, hair well-combed and
shoes are neatly polished.

Lesson I. Written Modes of Professional Communication

Genres Across Professions
Different professions use different genres. However, you will note that there are
communication materials that cut across professions. They communicate important
information about a certain organization, event, or individual.
 
Some of these communication materials are memoranda, minutes of meetings, business
letters, and business proposals. Moreover, with the advent of technology, there are now
new forms of communication materials using social media channels such as Facebook,
Twitter, and Linkedln. All these communication materials are considered as genres and
they cut across the different professions and/or disciplines.
Business Letters, Memoranda, Minutes of Meeting
Business letters are a common form of writing in any Organization. The traditional parts
of a business letter are:
  

a. heading
b. inside address
C. salutation
d. body
e. complimentary close
f. signature

Generally, the business letter follows a certain format. When plain bond paper is used,
the conventional heading includes the address of the writer and the date when the
letter is written. A modern heading uses the company's stationery which bears the
company's logo, address, telephone number, and other information. The date when the
letter is written is simply indicated. The heading is followed by the inside address which
indicates the name of the recipient of the letter, his/her designation/position in a
company or organization, and the company's address. It is also possible that the
recipient has no business or company affiliation. In this case, the letter writer merely
indicates the recipient's address. This part is followed by the greeting or salutation, and
the body of the letter which is clear, simple, and focused. The body normally has three
paragraphs, the first of which provides the reason for writing. The second paragraph
gives more specific details about the information provided in the first paragraph while
the last paragraph emphasizes the reason for writing and expresses gratitude to the
reader for taking time out to read/review the letter. The next part is the complimentary
close and the last is the signature.
Template of a business letter with a conventional heading and utilizing the pure block
format:
Template of a business letter with a modern heading and utilizing the modified block
format:
Note that there is a need for you to adjust the content of are different kinds of business
letters: letter of application, letter your letter depending on the purpose for writing. As it
is, there of resignation, letter of acceptance, follow-up letter, and letter of appreciation,
among others.
 
It is also possible that you write professional e-mails when you apply for work or for
other business purposes. Remember that when you write a business e-mail message,
you write it the way you write any other business correspondence. It is important that
you always fill in the subject line so as not to leave the recipient of the message
guessing as to what the message is all about. Then begin your e-mail with a professional
greeting, followed by the body, closing, and signature. Include your full name and
contact information such as e-mail address and phone number.
 
Another communication material is the memorandum. The term memorandum can be
shortened or abbreviated by calling it a memo. A Latin term which means "it must be
remembered," the memo is usually issued and disseminated by those occupying mid-
level positions and up in an organization. It is written to serve as a reminder to one's
constituents who need to do or act upon something. This is done so that the concerned
constituents will be properly guided as to what to do next so that errors in the
organizational system/process can be avoided or if already made or committed, it may
or will not happen again.
 
How do you construct an effective memorandum? As in any form of writing, organize
your thoughts very well so that clarity is achieved in the first instance or at the outset.
The first part should contain the most important information. Thus, indicate the
information you want and the reason for such by presenting relevant information. The
succeeding parts may discuss in specific terms what has been indicated in the first part
of the memo. Your Conclusion should also be clear so that the readers will know what to
do after reading it. Note that an effective memorandum is one that is written in a
powerful manner so that the readers will be Convinced to act upon it. Address the
memorandum only to those who are concerned. Review the memo before releasing it
especially using it especially who are if it contains confidential information.
 
Remember that memos, just like any form of writing, can serve as a permanent record in
an office or organization.
 
Memos have the same structure. This is the template for a memorandum:
Sending a memo via electronic mail is acceptable but you still need to follow the correct
format. It is also better if a memo is sent as an attachment to the e-mail.
 
A third important communication material is the minutes of a meeting. Organizations,
institutions, agencies, and even smaller units or offices hold meetings from time to time.
It is important that things discussed in the meeting are documented so that you can
always refer to them when issues arise in the future. It is possible that any clarification
on matters that have been previously addressed are found in the minutes of meetings
held in the past. Thus, it is important that records are kept properly. Soft and hard
copies are highly recommended.
Below is a template of the minutes of a meeting:
Business Proposal
When the company you work for wants to venture into a project with another
organization, you may be asked to write a business proposal. The purpose of a
business proposal is to attract clients or secure support from possible investors or
organizations. You may also write one for your own use if you are a freelancer.
Generally, proposals have the same template. Because there are numerous competing
companies nowadays, it is important that you produce a well-written proposal so that
you will have an edge over the others. Your goal is having the proposal approved by
your prospective client so do your best to attain that objective. You need to know and
understand your target client in developing a proposal that has a sound methodology, a
viable solution to the problem that the company is facing, a realistic schedule, and a
reasonable and justifiable budget.
A good proposal cannot be prepared overnight. If you are targeting a client, research
about it exhaustively. Know how it operates. Design a method by which you can
outshine other competitors who also wish to submit a proposal on the same ground.
Note that some prospective clients you meet in the course of your career may suddenly
request for a proposal to be prepared and submitted within a short notice. When this
happens and you are not able to get to produce a persuasive proposal, do not be
disheartened as the experience will still add to your journey as a professional.
Business proposals generally have three major parts: the problem statement, the
proposed solution, and the costing or pricing. Make sure that you begin with the
Executive Summary which highlights what you or your company is all about, the services
it provides, and how it differs from the others. This should be your selling point. Think of
an added value that you or your company can offer that will make it outdo the other
organizations of the same nature.
After the Executive Summary, proceed to the problem statement or what your
prospective client is encountering. The client should be convinced that you perfectly
understand the situation that it is in. This should be followed by the proposed
solution which explains how you can address or resolve the concern/s besetting the
client. You should then offer a sound method by which you will address the problem,
spelling out the step-by-step procedure that you will employ to carry out your plan
effectively. The step-by-step procedure will likewise require a timetable or the schedule
for the completion of the project. Make sure that your timetable is realistic. It is not a
good idea that you merely impress your prospective client but are not able to deliver
and meet the client's expectations. Stating a bit of your qualifications and your vast
experience in the field can be highlighted in this part so that you can convince the
prospective Top of Form Bottom of Form client that you are the best choice a costing.
You need to state the price of the services you will render if given the chance. It is all up
to you and your company if you want a one-time payment or a payment on a staggered
basis depending on the nature of the project.
Finally, there are no hard and fast rules as regards the length or the proposal. What is
more important is that it is complete with the information needed including those that
your prospective client may ask tor. Your proposal should be accompanied by a cover
letter and should begin with a Title Page with your name/name of the company
indicated, the company to whom the proposal is being submitted, as well as the date
when it is submitted.
Social Media Channels
To date, Facebook has become the most popular social media website. Developed by
Mark Zuckerberg in the early 2000s, Facebook allows you to link with people whom you
have not yet met and re-connect with family, friends, and acquaintances and to stay in
contact with them. You need to create your own account first and your personal profile.
You may include information you want to be known by other people either in private or
public depending on the kind of status you have. You may upload pictures, and write
your views on the Facebook wall which may or may not call attention. Your Facebook
friends may "like," react, or comment on your post.
Facebook, however, is not limited to individuals as it is also used nowadays by
organizations and companies. It is the fastest way to reach out to others and
disseminate information. If a company is going to organize an event such as a
convention, lecture, or symposium, it uses Facebook to spread the information. Many
events become successful because of online advertising and announcements. Online
postings such as those in Facebook and Twitter are also the cheapest way to advertise
events and achieve optimum results.
 
 
Finally, Linkedln as a social networking service is used for professional networking.
Employers use this site to post job vacancies while interested applicants post their
curriculum vitae or résumé. LinkedIn is a very effective way to connect professionals and
establish professional linkages. When you share your curriculum vitae via Linkedln, there
is no need to post your home address and other personal details. You may Just limit
your presentation to your professional qualifications such as your educational
background, work experience, and achievements as a professional. This way, you can
avoid exposing yourself to some external threats.

 
There are many communication materials that cut across professions and as a student or
future professionals, you should know how to utilize them appropriately. Moreover, due
to the advent of technology, genres of professional communications can now be sent
via emails and other social media channels. Formats also vary depending on the
communication that you are going to send.

Lesson 2. The Job Interview

Applying for a Job
Before getting employed, one undergoes an application process that involves the
communication skills you have been practicing in the previous lessons. The application
process usually begins with a job advertisement that is made available through various
forms such as newspapers advertisements, radio and/or television broadcasts, and social
media posts, as well as through job placement offices in business and educational
institutions.
To apply for a job, an applicant must carefully read the job advertisement to determine
if the job description matches his/ her interests, needs, and qualifications. These
advertisements list certain requirements that applicants must prepare and submit. The
requirements usually include an application form or letter, recommendation letters,
school records, and other supporting documents. After all the requirements are
collected and submitted to the employers, depending on the nature of the job, paper-
and-pen tests may be scheduled. Finally, a job interview is arranged.
 
The job interview is a vital component of the job application process. Documentary
requirements, which are the written components of the job application, do not give a
complete picture of the applicant. Test results are not totally reliable in providing all the
information employers need. Thus, employers arrange to interview job applicants to
determine whether or not the latter possess the qualities expected by the company or
organization. Because each job interview is different from the other, it is important that
applicants prepare themselves well. In this lesson, you will learn about preparing for a
job interview, as well as what to do and what not to do during a job interview. Top of
Form
 
Preparing for A Job Interview
Here are few tips you can follow to crack your interview in first attempt.

1. Research the Company and Interviewer

This is an essential first step for preparing for your interview. Go through their website,
editorials and annual reports. Read up on their ongoing projects, future plans and
ultimate goals.
Try to figure out the size of company, how many employees they have and what kind of
work environment they offer. You’ll use this information to demonstrate your knowledge
of the company during the interview. If you know the names your interviewers
beforehand, look at their social media profiles. You will feel more confident once you
have a face to the name.

2. Prepare your Questions

Once you have researched the company, generate a list of questions that may be asked
by the interviewer. Practice your responses. This will help ease your nerves when it’s time
for the real thing.
Next, prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer. Ask about the role expectations,
the culture, growth opportunities– anything that will give you a clearer picture of what it
would be like to work for this organization. Asking questions shows you’re not only
engaged in the interview, but interested and already thinking about your future with this
company.

3. Know Every Bit of your CV – Know your Strengths and Weaknesses

Your CV is all the interviewer has to go by in order to get to know you. They may pick
things out from it and ask you to elaborate so make sure you know it inside out. It is
also vital that you know your strengths and weaknesses because you should compare
them to the job description.

4. Eat Something
Too many candidates make the mistake of not eating before interviewing and suffer
from a lack of attentiveness as a result. Before you go into the interview, eat a meal that
contains vitamin E, omega 3 and antioxidants. This will improve brain functionality and
help you stay alert.

 5. Be On Time
Arriving 15 to 20 minutes before your scheduled interview is acceptable. Arriving early
sets the tone that you are a professional and will be reliable if offered the position.

Interviews begin the moment the candidate enters the building and ends when they
leave. It has been known that the interviewer may ask a secretary or receptionist for
their impressions of the candidate.
6. Body Language
It is important to be aware of nonverbal impressions such as your handshake, eye
contact and eye movement, posture, and facial and hand expressions. A sizeable
percentage of what we communicate comes via body language.
Eye Contact
Maintain good eye contact throughout the interview. It’s OK to look away occasionally,
but, for the most part, eye contact should be steady. It shows confidence and inspires
trust in all that you say.
Smile
When you are feeling stressed, a smile usually relaxes your face, which usually helps you
to relax overall. An introductory or occasional smile shows that you are enjoying the
conversation, and it adds to your confidence factor.
 
Posture
Sit up straight with your shoulders back and your feet firmly planted on the ground. It’s
fine to cross your legs if you feel more comfortable doing so, but avoid looking too
relaxed. You should be poised and fully focused on the interviewer, ensuring that you
answer all questions to the best of your ability.

7. Leaving the Interview

At the conclusion of the interview, thank the interviewer for his/her time and find out
what the next step will be. Once you have left the building and your interview is over,
your next step will be to contact your recruiter to discuss the potential opportunity of
moving forward in the process. 

8. The Follow Up – Thank You Notes

Wondering what to say in a thank you note? Or whether they really matter? Some
people say they don’t matter. Others say they are essential to getting that job offer. 
Thank the interviewer for the opportunity, remind the interviewer of the qualities you
would bring to this position, and address any concerns or issues that surfaced during
the interview. This is another chance for you to sell yourself.
 
What are the Dos and Don’ts During Job Interviews
1. Do maintain a positive and confident attitude.
    Don’t arrive late, sweaty and flustered – this will end the interview before it begins.
2. Do make sure you are well dressed.
    Don’t wear trackie dacks, thongs and singlets.
3. Do listen carefully to questions and instructions.
    Don’t leave your mobile phone on.
4. Do have a good understanding of the job and the company.
    Don’t go into the interview without doing your homework.
5. Do highlight what benefits you can bring to the company.
    Don’t ramble on about things that aren’t related to the industry.
6. Do use your own experiences to answer the questions.
    Don’t exaggerate your previous experiences or skills (too much).
7. Do show passion and enthusiasm for the position.
    Don’t yawn, stare out the window or pick your nose.
8. Do promote your strengths and sell yourself.
    Don’t reveal the negative parts of your personal life just yet.
9. Do let the employer know you have a clear career plan.
    Don’t sound confused about where you’re heading.
10. Do have a list of prepared questions to ask about the company and the
position.
    Don’t act like a rabbit caught in the headlights when it&#39s your turn to ask
questions.

In an interview, it is necessary that you bring with you good communication skills, professional
skills acquired based on your degree, and confidence to deal with the interviewer. By doing
such, you can be able to win the opportunity to get the job or position you desire. Moreover,
after your interview, always make a follow-up from your application because this shows that you
are truly interested in what you have applied for, including sending the company a thank you
message because they have given you time to be accommodated.