Networking with strangers can be a terrifying experience for many people, especially when it's in-person. What do you say? What if you're awkward? What if you don't make a good first impression?
Related:9 Tips For Becoming A Successful Networker
Don't worry - prepare! Check out these quick tips for more confident networking from Adam LoDolce, founder of SexyConfidence.com:
1. Know How To Break The Ice
Struggling for ice breakers? Instead of trying to memorize one-liners, keep things simple.
"A simple 'Hello, my name is ___' is more than sufficient if said with a smile," said LoDolce. "Or, my favorite, 'So, what brings you here?'"
2. Get Warmed up
Don't start batting without a few practice swings! Make sure you talk to a few people before you hit up your main target - it will ease your nerves and make you feel more comfortable.
"The moment you walk into the room, just start chatting it up with someone to warm up a bit," LoDolce suggested. "Before you know it, you'll feel comfortable chatting up the big time CEO across the room."
3. Be Aware Of Your Body Language
Did you know that 93% of communication is non-verbal? In order to give off a positive impression, LoDolce suggests doing the following:
Don't cross your arms
Keep a strong smile all night long
Hold strong eye contact
Feel weird keeping eye contact? Try just staring at the bridge of the other person's nose instead.
4. Ask Great Questions
"If you are uncomfortable doing the talking, then ask interesting and thought provoking questions," LoDolce suggested.
Here's an example: "Oh, you're an architect? What's it like building something that you know will be around for hundreds of years?"
5. Have Fun
Whenever you attend a networking event, above all else, focus on having a good time. People will be attracted to your good attitude.
"If you're enjoying yourself, people will enjoy your company," said LoDolce.
And, even if all fails, at least you can say you had a great night!
This post was originally published at an earlier date.Photo Credit: Shutterstock
A common interview question employers ask during job interviews is, "Why are you interested in this position?" They want to know why you want to work at their company, and the specific motivation behind why you applied for the job (not that you need a paycheck).
To persuade the employer that you have a true connection to the company and a passion for the job you applied for, your answer to this interview question should start with, "I'm interested in this job, at this company, because…" and then list at least three reasons why you want to work there.
Here is how you should structure your answer to the interview question, "Why are you interested in this job?"
Example: "I'm interested in this job because I can see that, in this role, my skills could help solve this problem within your company. I also see an opportunity for me to learn and grow these skills, so we both would benefit personally, professionally, and financially. If I can come in here and solve problems and accomplish your goals, I know I can develop my career the way that I want to."
This part of your answer lets them know that you are excited about what you will be able to accomplish for them, while still emphasizing what they are getting out of the bargain. You need to sell yourself as a business-of-one who can provide a service better than the competition.
Reason #2 – Cultural Fit
Bigstock
Your second reason when answering, "Why are you interested in this job?" also shows fit, but in a different way.
Example: "Also, I like the culture of this organization. From what I've heard and what I've been reading about the company, it seems like a great fit for my personality and my values. I really connect with your mission statement, and feel passionate about the work that you do."
This is a general answer, so if you can be more specific by actually naming a couple of things you've heard or read about the company's workplace culture that you like, it will help your cause. This is one area where your pre-interview research is critical.
Does this company value and/or provide resources for employee development?
Mention those things that truly speak to you and your values so your sincerity shows.
Reason #3 – Personal Fit
Bigstock
Wrap up your answer to this interview question with something that personalizes it a bit more.
Examples:
"And this job is in a great location for me. I've always wanted to move here."
"And this job is only five minutes from my house, so eliminating the commute is a big plus."
"And I've always used your products, and I just love them. I am really excited about being a part of that."
Say something that gives you another reason of your own for wanting this job. This interview answer is a fantastic place to let your enthusiasm for the job show. It's very appealing to employers, and it gives them one more reason to hire you.
Download Work It Daily's FREE list of common interview questions here.
You'll have a very clear and thorough answer to the question, "Why are you interested in this job?" if you follow the formula above. Set yourself apart from the competition today!
Are you struggling to answer other common interview questions? We can help.
We'd love it if you joined our FREE community. It’s a private, online platform where workers, just like you, are coming together to learn and grow into powerful Workplace Renegades. More importantly, we have tons of resources inside our community that can help you prepare for your next job interview.
It's time to find work that makes you feel happy, satisfied, and fulfilled. Join our FREE community today to finally become an empowered business-of-one!
This article was originally published at an earlier date.
