When going into a job interview the natural emotion seems to be anxiety. We tense up, we are unsure of what is about to happen, our stomach's flutter a bit. We are nervous. Don't let it show. What you should exude is confidence, courage, and relaxation.
Follow these 18 tips to project a job winning image:
- Be natural - don't try to be something that you are not
- Get comfortable - sit in a comfortable position, without lounging or sprawling
- Don't wisecrack - skip the small talk, stop trying to pretend that you are a member of the "good ole boy" club
- Don't exagerate your abilities - be honest about your experience and skills, no need to embellish
- Personal connections - don't name drop, but if it comes up it is okay, you are also not trying to hide it
- Don't overpower - let the interviewers be in control of the interview, don't talk over them or dominate the conversation
- Be attentive - pay attention, be observant
- Don't interrupt - take your time, don't finish peoples questions, or start answering before the questioner is completed
- Understand the question - make sure you know what is being asked, it is okay to have the question repeated or ask for clarification
- Reply promptly - answer the question in a timely fashion, but don't rush through your answer
- Don't create answers - be real, don't answer questions only based on what you think the interviewer wants to hear
- Hold your ground - don't change your answer just to agree with the interviewer
- Admit error - don't be afraid to admit errors in judgement if you are shown to be wrong
- Don't dwell on your present position - answer questions succinctly, do not keep a focus on your present employment
- No anecdotes - don't bring in your extra comments or helpful analogies
- No slang - keep a clean mouth, and use only common english
- Leave your exhibits at home - this is often recommended, however, this sometimes works in getting the job (just know your interviewer, and feel it out)
- Don't flatter - people can tell when you are insincere; nobody wants to listen to this
