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6 Ways to Help You Build a Rapport at Your Scientific Job Interview

by CK Group

No matter what science job it is that you are interviewing for, you will always have a better shot at getting it if you develop a good rapport with your interviewer. By connecting with the interviewer on a more personal level, you are ultimately more likely to land yourself that great job in science.

Here are a few helpful hints to help you to build a rapport during your interview:

1. Show a genuine interest in the interviewer:

  • Smile when you first meet your interviewer
  • Establish and maintain eye contact throughout your interview
  • Be the first to say hello
  • Use your interviewers name
  • Try to do more listening than talking

2. Subtly mirror the interviewers ...

  • Tone of voice
  • Body language − wait 10 seconds and then shift your body to the same position as the interviewer
  • Speech patterns − does the interviewer like to talk about things in detail or do they prefer to look at the bigger picture? You do the same.
  • Head nods − when they nod their head, nod yours. This is a signal of agreement.

3. Repeat what the interviewer says:

  • After they have spoken, provide a brief synopsis of what they have said. This shows that you are listening and that you agree with what they"re saying.

4. Asking questions:

  • Without interrupting, make sure you ask questions. This will show you the interviewer that you are taking a real interest in what they are saying and in the scientific company.

5. Dress smartly:

  • In order to build a rapport you need to present yourself in the best possible way.

6. Thank them for their time

  • Follow up with an email or a letter to thank them and let them know you appreciate them taking the time to see you.

Find out more from CK Group

Interview Tips


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