Saturday, November 8, 2008

Final Reflection

This post marks almost the end of a fruitful and enjoyable ES2007S module. I reviewed my first post and recall mentioning the importance of first impression and the ability to communicate effectively. For one of our lessons, we were given tips on interview skills. We conducted a mock interview and I was in the position of an interviewer for once. We were given a list of questions which interviewers tend to ask. Armed with that, I proceeded to conduct the “interview” with Qiyuan as the “interviewee”. I remember paying particular attention to his non verbal actions throughout. His poise and confidence left me impressed and I offered him the “job” immediately after the “interview”. Indeed, first impression and non-verbal actions can sometimes be as important as our words.

We also learnt to apply the 7Cs in report writing as well as in verbal communications. Clarity of thought and coherence is important in getting our point across. In addition, effective communication involves more than just being a good speaker. Conflicts often arise out of misunderstandings. Being a good listener by seeking to understand before being understood will go a long way in ensuring a harmonious relationship in work or in social relationships.



Having gone through the rigours of professional training in the past few months, I believe that I am more or less equipped with the necessary skills which will serve me well in the working world. I will end off with a food for thought quote by John Marshall, "to listen well is as powerful as a means of communication and influence as to talk well."

4 comments:

JY said...

Hi Ho Teck,

I remembered the mock interview clearly too! I was the interviewee for my group while Nicole and Mei Ling were the interviewers. I knew that my friends were carrying out the interview, yet it was still a nerve wrecking experience. And we had just gone through the answers to the questions less than an hour ago! It is indeed a different feeling when sitting on the other side of the table, and I do hope that this experience can help me when I go for real interviews that determine whether I can get the job.

From our interaction in class these 12 weeks, I am sure you are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in life. You have been actively participating in discussions and sharing your knowledge. It was truly a joy for you to be in our class. I look forward to your presentation in the next class!

Jimmy
ES2007S Group 2

Mei Ling said...

Hi Ho Teck!

You're right in that first impressions and non-verbal actions count for a lot in an interview. I find myself having to rely most on my first impression of a person when selecting committee members, especially when you only get 5 minutes with them (sometimes less). And I find that most of the time I'm not too far from the truth with these impressions. One important thing I've learnt from these interviews is to relax and just be yourself (since that is likely to be when we're most at ease).

Looking forward to your presentation tomorrow!

Mei Ling

Bing said...

Dear Ho Teck,

I agree with you that first impression counts in an interview!

I had the opportunity to conduct interviews to select my members of the Management Committee and I have to agree that first impression do play a crucial part in my decision at the end of the session.

It was really great to have you as a classmate and much thanks for giving my research project group constructive feedback on our reports!

All the best!

Ho Teck said...

Hi Mei Ling,

I cannot more than agree with you that we should all try to be ourselves during the interview. An experienced interviewer will be able to tell if we are stating facts or merely boosting our credentials.At the same time, we should also be mindful of our non-verbal behaviour. That should make for a successful interview.

Cheers
Ho Teck