Whether you’re looking for a new job or have been out of work for a while, having a job interview can be a nerve-wracking time. If you come across as nervous, it can make the employer wonder if you’re good enough for the job. Having confidence is important to make the best first impression and here are some tips to boost that.
Be Positive About It
Don’t go in thinking that you’re going to fail at something. Go in with a positive attitude. This will come across during your interview. While you are there, you will also need to be positive.
Don’t put yourself down, even in a jokey way. It will give your employer the impression that you don’t think you’re good enough and someone else will get your role.
Act Like You Have Confidence
Even if you have no confidence in yourself, act as if you do. Walk in tall and have a nice smile on your face. Acting like you have confidence will also help you talk more clearly.
Don’t rush your words and allow the employer to learn more about you and how you’ll help the company. Give him a reason to hire you.
Practise Before You Go
Have a friend to help you practise your interview skills. They could read a few of the common questions or help you set out the things you’ll say to impress your new potential boss.
Let your friend quiz you with some of the unexpected questions to see how you’ll handle them. The more you practise, the more at ease you will feel.
Listen to the Interviewer
Remember that this isn’t just about you. The interviewer will want to know how you fit in with the company and it is time to find out more about the role. Ask questions and listen to everything the interviewer has to say.
You want to impress the interviewer and being a candidate who is good at listening as well as talking will do that.
Share Your Career Goals
Think about your career goals and write them down if you must.
These are great to share with the company, especially if it details the company and where you see yourself within five years of working there.
Are You the Best for the Role?
Of course you are! Now it’s time to think of the answer why. Why are you suited to that particular company and what will you bring to them in terms of experience, skill and quality?
This is something the interviewer wants to know and will help determine whether you beat the others.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
If you worry about the interview the night before, you won’t get a good night’s sleep. You’ll constantly worry about it in the morning, and how you look!
The best thing to do is get a good night’s sleep and have a full breakfast (or lunch depending on the time of the interview). This will help to boost your confidence and your chances.