Don’t get caught with a TWS violation – texting while searching for a job! I am certain that as a job-seeking Baby Boomer, (born between 1946-1964), if you put your “fingers” to it, you can “out-text” the best of Generation X or even the younger Millennial texters. The real question is, though, “Can you be a skillful conversationalist if texting is your number one way of communicating?” Remember the age-old question, “Can you talk and chew gum at the same time?”
During the early stages of your job search, you will find it very easy to hide behind your computer, emails and texting on the phone. But you do know that, eventually, the day is coming when you’re going to have to have that face-to-face interview, right? That is, if you really do want that job.
Yes, I’m aware that every once in a while, you will hear a story about an individual who was hired sight unseen, having only to do a phone interview. Do you think this is the norm? Of course, not! But, surely, this individual must have mastered the skill of being an effective conversationalist in order to obtain a job over the phone, wouldn’t you agree?
Unfortunately, for “text-aholics,” this addiction gets in the way of meaningful and direct face-to-face conversations. Consistently “texting” as your main means of communication will interfere with you becoming a “skillful conversationalist” and can also keeping you from landing your dream job! One of the adverse effects of texting is misinterpretation of your message – tones and emotions can be misunderstood. Instead of texting, practice picking up the phone and actually having a real conversation. A conversation a day might lead to more consistent pay!
You want to increase your chances of getting a job? Spend more time speaking with others. Become skilled at having great conversations with others. Powerful communication is the key to successful relationships with your family, work colleagues, business partners, customers and future employers.
Follow and practice, practice, practice these four main principles for communicating effectively so that you will achieve the outcomes you want in business and in life:
- Listen… Take the time to listen to all the information being delivered by the individual speaking before formulating your response.
- Think and Interpret what others are saying to you…Processing all the information before responding is courteous and shows respect towards the speaker.
- Ask questions…Questions help you develop a better understanding of the topic being discussed. Asking questions shows the speaker that you are interested in the discussion and that you are trying to add value to the conversation.
- Respond appropriately…Responding is different from reacting. Reacting is often the result of not thinking, whereas responding requires a great deal of thought and reasoning. Organize your thoughts and communicate them effectively with those around you.
Now that you are on your way to becoming a skillful conversationalist, and assuming that you have already created a job search checklist, I suggest that one of your “to do” items be “to learn as much as I can about the individual or individuals who will interview me.”