How to face your next job interview with confidence
In applying for a new job, you may indeed be experienced and well qualified, and you may have submitted a wonderful letter of application and a perfect résumé. But today, more than ever, it's that face-to-face interview that really counts. To gain the advantage, you'll need to project a confident image, as the following strategies suggest...
1. Do your homework.
If you’ve done your research and preparation thoroughly, it will come across confidently and naturally during an interview. So…
- Know your résumé thoroughly. Be able to elaborate on each item and to discuss strengths and weaknesses confidently, positively, and honestly.
- Assemble your résumé, other documentation, and examples of previous work as support material for use when appropriate during the interview.
- Familiarise yourself with the company and the position you have applied for. You needn't be an expert, but take note of a few important facts. Try to make some global observations based on the content of printed materials you examine (company publications, local newspapers, or annual reports) or the people you speak with beforehand. Be able to talk about the organisation's successes, and emphasise what strengths you can now bring to the company or the specific position.
- Prepare your responses - but don't overdo it. By all means prepare thoroughly for the questions you expect to get at the interview, but don't be so thorough as to be unprepared for those you don't expect. And don't be so intent on giving your prepared responses that you answer questions you were never asked.
- Be ready to ask some intelligent questions of your own. Interviewers often give you that opportunity.
2. Rehearse.
The best way to build confidence and manage uncertainty is to practise beforehand. So rehearse questions related to each of the selection criteria and other fundamental questions such as these:
Why did you apply for this position? What have been your major achievements? Which of these relate most closely to the position you are seeking? How well are you going to be able to perform in the role? What is your potential? Why should we choose you? What are your special qualities that set you apart from the other applicants? Why are you the best person for the job? How will it fit in with your career plans?
Practise your responses aloud (run-ning them through your mind is not the same). Engage in mental imaging: actually see yourself performing well; hear the certainty in your voice. Visualise the introductions, your final statement to the panel, and your exit. Remember Don Clayton's advice in 'Up the Ladder without Snakes':
'Most of us tend to make rehearsal a half-hearted affair and we are rewarded (or punished) for this when we walk into the room and feel our minds melt into mush.'
3. Pay attention to first impressions.
First impressions count a great deal:
- Look the part. Dress appropriately.
- Make sure you arrive ten minutes early - ample time to psych yourself up. Never arrive late. Ensure you don't feel rushed. Breathe in deeply; exhale slowly.
- Walk in confidently and be sure to smile, make direct eye-contact, and introduce yourself. Carry your materials in your left hand, so that you are ready to return a handshake firmly without fumbling.
- Relax. Try to give the impression that you are approaching the interview confidently and calmly.
