How can Interpersonal Communication professionals answer tough interview questions?

1 Know your strengths and weaknesses

Before you go to any interview, you should have a clear idea of what your strengths and weaknesses are as an interpersonal communicator. Think of specific examples from your previous or current work experience, education, or personal life that illustrate how you have used your interpersonal communication skills effectively or how you have overcome or improved on your challenges. You can use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your examples and make them concise and relevant. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses will help you answer questions that ask you to describe your interpersonal communication style, your achievements, or your areas of improvement.

2 Anticipate common and specific questions

While you cannot predict every question that an interviewer will ask you, you can prepare for some common and specific questions that are likely to come up in an interpersonal communication-related job. For example, you can expect to be asked about how you communicate with different audiences, how you handle conflict or feedback, how you collaborate with others, or how you adapt to changing situations. You can also research the organization and the role you are applying for and anticipate questions that relate to their mission, values, culture, or challenges. You can use your prepared examples to answer these questions and show how your interpersonal communication skills match the needs and expectations of the employer.

3 Use active listening and nonverbal cues

Interpersonal communication is not only about what you say, but also how you say it and how you listen. During the interview, you should use active listening and nonverbal cues to show your interest, respect, and engagement with the interviewer. Active listening means that you pay attention to what the interviewer is saying, ask clarifying or follow-up questions, summarize or paraphrase their points, and provide feedback or opinions when appropriate. Nonverbal cues include your eye contact, facial expressions, body posture, gestures, and tone of voice. You should use nonverbal cues that convey confidence, enthusiasm, and professionalism, and avoid those that indicate boredom, nervousness, or arrogance.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?