Welcome to the What You Say, How You Say It and What You Publish podcast.  And with me today are Roberta Terrell and Jonathan Ross who work with DTN Productions International – Hallmark of Etiquette.

In today's increasingly casual world let's talk about verbal effectiveness, word choices, slang and lazy language – specific to a professional interview and environment.  What are some of the top taboos, Jonathan?

Of course generational slang is prevalent, but it is critical to know when/if/how much to use in a professional setting such as an interview.

So are you suggesting that "some" is acceptable?

Actually I suggest remaining more formal during an interview – it translates into respect.  Too casual indicates a certain familiarity that doesn't exist in an interview.  And remember good grammar counts!

What are some examples, Roberta of lazy language?

Too many filler words – um's, ah's, uhuh's, yeah, nope, gotcha's – essentially non-words and poor enunciation make for a bad first impression.

And slang examples that would be taboo?

The number one complaint today is the excessive use of the word "like" – other examples include "no problem," "dude," "sweet," "for sure," "you know what I mean" – new slang terms pop up frequently.

And don't forget clichés – I'm having a senior moment, a blonde moment, an early Alzheimer moment are all inappropriate!  Verbal responsibility (or irresponsibility) is noticed and makes an impact for a memorable interview.

Clear communication and no mumbling – in other words speak up, be understandable and verbally appropriate – right?  Would it be appropriate to ask about sick days, flextime, and vacation time during a first interview?

No, no and no!  That is a top question that implies it's all about me!  So as we're discussing "what to say and how to say it in this podcast, that would be a question best left for a later 3^rd or 4^thinterview.

And also recommended is the right amount of diplomacy – use words that are courteous and sincerely respectful.  Anything that sounds "fake" won't be complementary to your image. 

When you're speaking it needs to sound like you mean it and that this is the "real" you!

In regard to casual versus formal, how should the candidate address the interviewer – by a first name or Mr., Ms., Dr. or other titles? 

Again – stay on the side of showing more respect by addressing the interviewer formally – Mr. Thomas, Ms. Stephens, Dr. Lawrence – at least until they insist on a first name usage.  And professional women in general prefer the Ms. title.

What if you can't pronounce or forget their name – these are common issues with which people often struggle….

When their name is given to you, that's your opportunity to ask them to repeat it again if it's hard to understand.  People with difficult names are accustomed to this and prefer that you ask rather than mispronounce it. 

And focus – you need to remember the names given to you in the interview – that includes even if it is a panel interview with several people.

Have you noticed any nervous verbal behaviors that deserve a mention here?

Yes, often when people are nervous they tend to ramble and reveal – they talk too much and reveal information that wasn't asked and shouldn't have been shared. 

Many interviewees say after the interview is over "why did I say that???"  So pause and reflect before you open your mouth!

When the interviewer asks the standard question, "tell me a little about yourself" – it means a little – no more than 60-90 seconds or their eyes will start to glaze over.

And females have a tendency to giggle and laugh nervously – keeping that under control is essential.

Let's go to the social networking that is so popular today.  What are your suggestions – this is a landmine of potential issues.

It is much more serious than many candidates realize.  An increasing number of employers are doing their homework and researching the sites to see what they can dig up on the potential hire. 

Plain and simple – assume all information on any social networking site is or will be public in your near future. Establish and maintain your privacy settings, don't use vulgar or offensive language….

Don't trash talk your college or other colleges, don't reference to any illegal behaviors and be careful which pictures you post!  And monitor what others are posting of you!

According to a recent study, 38% of employers said the social networks negatively impacted their view of a potential candidate prior to the interview and some even lost the possibility of an interview.

So in other words, it's your reputation on the line!

Yes, and it will proceed you and certainly follow you for years to come!

Thanks Jonathan and Roberta for the words to the wise!