In the past year there has been a significant increase in the number of people looking for new jobs. Many experienced job loss due to the economic effects of the global pandemic while others were seeking new opportunities for a variety of reasons ranging from recent graduates looking to begin their careers to professionals considering a career change.
With so many applicants vying for positions posted on business websites and job listing platforms, recruiters and HR representatives are faced with the challenge of finding the candidates who are the right fit for the available position. Since so many job seekers are applying for the same positions, you need to bring your best to every interview so you can rise above the other candidates and land the right job. And the key to achieving that goal is to display confidence. We’ll share some great tips on how to boost your confidence and make a positive impression during interviews.
Be On Time
Nothing demonstrates a lack of confidence quite like arriving at an interview at the last minute or, even worse, late. You’ll appear rushed and flustered which will come across as nervous and anxious. That’s not a great way to start an interview. Take some time to plan out your commute to the office and account for traffic and other possible obstacles. It’s always better to be a little early as it gives you time to go review the job listing, gather your interview questions, and gain your composure. All of those things will give your confidence level a boost.
If you’re participating in a remote online interview, timeliness is still key to building and maintaining confidence. Take a few minutes before you login to test your microphone and sound levels, check your internet speed, and gather any materials you’ll need during the interview. You don’t want to begin the interview with a faulty microphone or a screen that freezes constantly. Those things will quickly drain your confidence and put a damper on the interview.
Be Prepared
Being prepared for your interview is an essential part of building your confidence. A good idea is to familiarize yourself with an organization before you apply for an open position; and it’s an even more important idea before an interview. It’s not only a good idea to research the company; it’s also smart to research the team members you’ll be meeting, that way they won’t seem like total strangers. You’ll display confidence when you demonstrate your knowledge of the company and its team. By conducting a bit of research, you’ll also be able to determine if you have any common connections or experiences that you can highlight in your conversation.
In addition to research, you should also review the job description again to highlight the particular skill sets that match their requirements. You’ll also be able to better address any areas where your experience may not be as proficient. If an interviewer asks you a question that addresses any skill deficiencies, you’ll be ready to acknowledge those areas and assure the team that you’re ready to work hard and become a skilled expert and asset for their organization.
Be Yourself
You know you can do the job. You have the skills, passion and drive to be successful in the role. That’s why you applied for the position. Let the interviewer know that. You can do that by being yourself. Now, that doesn’t mean you should come across as arrogant or boastful. Instead, let them know that you have what it takes to not only do the job but do it well. If you believe in yourself and your capabilities, then that confidence will convince the interviewer that you’re the right person to join their team.
If you follow these steps, you’ll increase your confidence during interviews and make a positive impression with potential employers.