3.    Tone. The tone of your voice is the sound of the words you are saying. Your tone has the ability to completely change the meaning of the words you say, and has a large impact on how your words are received. Research has shown that even bad news can be received well if the tone of the sender is upbeat and positive. Your tone can also get you into trouble.

Let’s look at the difference between how this message is received when the tone changes:

“Jeff, you look really nice in that suit,” is a simple, common statement that is meant in a friendly, complimentary manner. Jeff would probably smile and thank you for the compliment.

Now let’s give the same statement, putting emphasis on the italicized words:

“Jeff, you look really, really good in that suit.” Now your words have gone from a compliment to a suggestive comment that may offend him and make him feel uncomfortable.

This is an example of how tone can change the meaning of your words.

Tone is very important especially when the communication is done over the phone. Others will draw many conclusions about the speaker based on tone. If your tone is friendly, others will want to talk to you and may even put more trust in your words. If you are curt, others will likely decide you are impatient or unhelpful. If your tone is soft, they may think you are weak or ineffective. Pay close attention to your tone and be sure it is supportive of your spoken word.

4.    Non-verbal communication (Body Language). Are you aware that body language is the form of communication that is utilized most? Think about your body language and what it is revealing. Are you making good eye contact and carrying your posture in a way that indicates, “I’m open to what you’re saying?” Or are you tapping your foot and looking out of the window as if to say, “I have more important things to do than listen to you?” Body language plays an important part, for both the speaker and the listener.

Non-Verbal Behavior… Arms crossed over the chest

What it Signals…Defensiveness or not open to conversation

Non-Verbal Behavior… Shifting position frequently or leg jiggling

What it Signals…Nervousness or impatience

Non-Verbal Behavior…Staring off into space

What it Signals…Boredom, disinterest and disagreement

Non-Verbal Behavior… Poor eye contact

What it Signals…Insecurity, dishonesty, Low self-esteem

Non-Verbal Behavior… Slumped shoulders or slumped in chair

What it Signals…That you don’t care

Non-Verbal Behavior… Finger-pointing

What it Signals… Overbearing or arrogant

Non-Verbal Behavior…Clenched fist

What it Signals…Aggression, anger or resentment

How you communicate during an interview can make the difference in whether you get a job offer or not. A Career Coach can help you identify the best way to market yourself to impress the potential employer. What are your nervous habits? Do you use filler words such as um or ah when you are thinking? How do sit during an interview to create a feeling of connection with the interviewer(s) and convey interest? I can help you answer these questions and more….