Get set for an angry rant about a topic you might not even have considered. It involves a super-irritating cliché that has stealthily infiltrated our video interviews and boardroom presentations. It’s such a serious problem that it’s disrupting the entire art of professional communication! Get ready for a narrative on the use of the notorious “So” at the start of sentences. 🎥💼
The So-Minator Strikes Again:
Picture this: you’re appearing in a critical video interview, aiming to make a stellar impression, when suddenly, the uninvited guest, “So,” makes its entrance at the start of your first sentence. It’s a silent saboteur, subtly diminishing the impact of your responses and leaving your interviewers wondering if there’s more substance behind your words. You might as well start by saying “Ummmm” or “Errrrrr”. Not a great beginning! 😱🗣️
The Pseudo-Intellectual Trap:
In the realm of video interviews, first impressions matter more than ever. “So” can unintentionally create a pseudo-intellectual facade, making your carefully crafted responses seem less genuine and more like an attempt to sound profound. Let’s break free from this linguistic trap and present our authentic selves. 🎭🚀
The Unintentional Time Waster:
Time is a precious commodity in video interviews. Every second counts towards showcasing your skills and personality, and also making sure your viewers don’t immediately click away. Yet, the unnecessary “So” can become a silent time thief, robbing you of the opportunity to delve straight into your key points. Let’s reclaim those seconds for impactful conversations. ⏳💬
So, What’s the Solution? (Oh, see, “so” is creeping in EVERYWHERE!!!)
Now that we’ve unveiled the ‘So’ saga in video interviews, it’s time for a collective resolution. Here are three strategies to ensure your video interviews are free from the clutches of the overused “So”:
- Cold Turkey Challenge: Kick off your next video interview without the crutch of “So.” Challenge yourself to speak confidently and directly. Trust in your ability to articulate thoughts without unnecessary fillers. 🦃🎤
- The Synonym Shuffle: Embrace a diverse range of sentence starters tailored for video interviews. Experiment with alternatives like “Well,” “Now,” or the straightforward “To begin with.” Your goal is not just to answer questions but to captivate your audience. 🔄✨
- The Mirror Test: Practice your responses in front of a mirror or record a mock interview. Analyze your use of “So” and identify moments where you can seamlessly transition into your answers without relying on this linguistic crutch. 🪞🎙️
So, here’s the cautionary tale, LinkedIn colleagues. As we navigate the world of virtual interviews, let’s be mindful of the language we use. A small adjustment in our communication style can make a significant impact on our success in video interviews.
What do you think about the overuse of ‘So’? Share your insights and tips in the comments below. Let’s ace those video interviews together! 🌟🚀
