Cultivating a good communication style helps to make a strong first impression. And taking a cue from the recruiter as to what his style is will help in the interview.

First impressions do matter, especially on job interviews. And one of the best ways to make a good first impression when interviewing for a job is to be able to effectively communicate with the recruiter. This means developing a communication style that fits with the recruiter’s communication style.

There are a variety of communication style indicators such as Myers-Briggs and the Birkman Method that can help teams work together better by understanding their communication dynamics. However, since job seekers don’t have the luxury of being able to participate in these types of tools prior to every interview, there are some basic skills that candidates can develop to help them perform better in a job interview.

The first step is to understand and develop good basic interpersonal communication skills. This means learning how to deliver and receive messages in a way that maximizes understanding.

Here are three common elements to developing good interpersonal communication.

Use Simple Language

This involves speaking in clear simple sentences that are free of jargon.

Practice Active Listening

This means being engaged and alert. Job seekers can ensure they have understood the message accurately by paraphrasing what the interviewer has said.

Ask for Feedback

This involves asking for confirmation. The job seeker can confirm that the interviewer understands what he has said by finishing with a question such as, “Does that make sense?”

But having good interpersonal communication skills is only part of the story. To be able to make a connection with the recruiter job seekers need to also understand the recruiter’s communication style within a job interview setting and adjust accordingly.

This doesn’t mean to mimic the recruiter, but rather to follow; to allow the recruiter to set the tone and the pace of the interview and then to react and behave in the same manner.

Here are four tips on what to consider when interviewing:

Business as Usual

In this case the recruiter assumes a formal, businesslike demeanor. It would probably be a wrong move to tell jokes or clever anecdotes to try and lighten the mood. Instead be as succinct and businesslike as they are without being rude.

Friendly, Yet Professional

If a recruiter is personable and friendly, there is more opportunity to engage in small talk. Look at the items around his or her office as they may offer a clue as to their interests. Finding a commonality can bring people together.

Give Direct Responses

Whichever style the recruiter demonstrates, it is important to answer questions directly. Wandering off topic or losing track of thoughts will send the recruiter the wrong message.

Non-verbal Communication

Be aware of the message body language sends. Slouching or squirming, unnecessary movements such as bouncing legs or playing with hair is distracting and indicates a person is nervous. It won’t make a favorable first impression.

People tend to be attracted to others like themselves, so developing a communication and interview style that fits well with the recruiter will give a job seeker an advantage and enhance their chance of making a favorable first impression.