By Bob Lankard
CTW Features
![\"\"](\"http://content.contentthatworks.com/images_articles/2010/jobs/jobs_20100907_communicate_communicate.jpg\")
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article_html += " "; article_html += "Oral and writing skills are essential in a service- and knowledge-based economy. Here are three points in a job search when demonstrating superior communication is key:
"; article_html += "Planning is essential to communicate the right message during an initial phone call or face-to-face meeting that could lead to an interview. Remember, not all communication is verbal or written.
"; article_html += "Consider Jim. He visits employers neatly dressed and well groomed. He has a pen, several copies of his resume, identification and a fact sheet to refer to if he will complete a job application on site. He speaks politely, using good English, and greets every staff person with respect.
"; article_html += "Consider Jerry. He pops into an office wearing a sleeveless tee shirt and dirty jeans. \"After all,\" he reasons, \"it\'s not like an interview. I just want an application.\" When asked to complete the application in the office he says, \"I was planning on having my girl friend do this at home.\"
"; article_html += "Both Jim and Jerry communicated with the office staff. Did they take note of the message? You bet.
"; article_html += "E-mails, applications, cover letters and resumes must be legible, neat, use good grammar and be free from spelling errors. Learn to edit all written communication so that it conforms to the three C\'s: clear, concise, complete.
"; article_html += "Ask someone to read your letter and explain its contents. If her explanation and your intent are the same, your letter is clear. If you included all relevant information it is complete. A cover letter should not be more than one page.
"; article_html += "An interview is the ultimate test of communication skills - and it\'s always pass / fail. Listen to each question carefully so that you know you are responding to the question asked. Make sure you respond with good grammar, avoiding slang and lazy words. Rid your speech of verbal ticks such as, \"And ah,\" \"You know,\" and \"Umm.\"
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article_html += " ![\"Bob](\"http://content.contentthatworks.com/images_other/authors/author_lankard_bob.jpg\")
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article_html += " Bob Lankard, a business columnist for the Indiana Gazette and former program manager at the state Job Center in Indiana, Pa., offers common-sense advice and innovative tactics to help all levels of job seekers satisfy their employment ambitions.";
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