The Importance of Speaking Properly During a Job Interview

Everyone is always saying how important it is for people to be themselves. And it's true. However, when it comes to job interviews job seekers need to don a more professional image that may or may not fit with how they view themselves.

Truth of the matter is that when candidates are in a job interview sitting face to face with the interviewer prepared to have a lengthy discussion about their background and work experience, it can be totally disconcerting to the interviewer if the job seeker suddenly launches into street speak, slang and filler words.

Imagine a candidate giving himself a two-finger double thump to the chest while saying, "Yo, dawg, gotta give you props because this gig sounds off the hook." That just won't work; at least not in most companies in the U.S.

While this kind of language is fine between friends, when it comes to working in the real world, job seekers need to take the time to refine their the way they speak, especially during a job interview.

Eliminate Filler Words from the Conversation

Yes, it can be difficult for candidates seeking employment to adapt their look and communication style in order to land the opportunity they seek. However, Corporate America has defined a clean-cut image as the one that is acceptable. That means candidates need to incorporate professional words and a polished attitude into their presentation package.

Sprinkling in filler words such as "um", "you know", and "like" is a bad habit usually enhanced by nerves and can often be difficult to break. Consider taking public speaking courses or joining a group like Toastmasters to help remedy this crutch.

Drop Slang and Street Jargon During the Interview

Anyone in Los Angeles in the early eighties probably remembers the emergence of Valspeak popularized by Moon Zappa and based heavily on surfer slang. Valley girl jargon with phrases like "totally tubular" and "gnarly to the max" became very popular with younger adults. Unfortunately, there is still a hold over today with some of the words, like "dude," "duh" and "what-ever."

Job seekers may drop these expressions into their everyday vocabulary with friends, even family; however, interviewers are looking for more. One of the top qualities that employers seek in candidates is the ability to communicate clearly and concisely without the use of filler words and street slang.

Avoid Using Curse Words to Emphasis a Point

Cussing and swearing may improve workplace camaraderie, but job seekers are wise to hold off until they land a position before they tell someone he's a hell of a guy.

When a candidate explains to an interview the reason he left his last job was because his boss was a prick, it's difficult to take anything else he has to say seriously. Right or wrong there is a belief by recruiters and hiring managers that job seekers will be on their best behavior during the interview. And if that best behavior is riddled with inappropriate language, it's difficult to believe that it will get better on the job.

The world of business has an established decorum. There are expectations that people will be courteous and professional, especially during the job search process. That's why using professional words and tones are important to winning a job.