So you want to know how to get through your next interview and secure that job? It\’s all very well having the knowledge for the job, but if you don\’t come across as competent and confident, you\’re going to struggle to beat the competition! So in this first post on successful interview tips and techniques (there will be three); we\’re going to show you how to LOOK confident (even though you might not feel confident)!
1. Relax – It’s no good someone shouting “RELAX” at you; it isn’t going to make you feel better! To be able to recall the feeling of relaxation when you want it without any feelings of anxiety, you need to practice! From now on, practice breathing deeply into the bottom of your lungs, and repeat positive, affirming statements to yourself. It\’s not about being arrogant, it\’s about changing those negative thoughts you have about yourself, until you slowly begin to believe the positive statements, which will shine through and give you more self-confidence. Remember, the ability to relax is one of the most important keys to unlocking the door to successful interviewing.
2. Posture – Use these 3 tips to make sure you are standing “positively”; the string and bolero will help you sit “positively” and you will come across as interested and interesting! (You may have already read this in one of our previous posts, in which case, you\’re one step ahead!)
The Tripod – Stand with your feet directly under your shoulders so that your weight is balanced evenly.
The String – Imagine that there is a string running up through your body. Pull the string (figuratively!) to raise yourself up at least an inch!
The Bolero – Imagine that you are wearing a bolero jacket (the type that Spanish bull fighters wear). Pull the bottom at the back of the jacket down so that your shoulders are pulled back and your chest broadens.
3. Your smile – don’t forget to smile at your interviewer and make sure you smile with your eyes (otherwise you will look like a snarling animal!) If you are feeling nervous try to remember something that makes you happy as you walk in, this will give you a genuine smile, and nobody needs to know what you\’re really thinking about!
4. Eye contact – a really important part of communication – look away a lot and you’ll look shifty; constant eye contact and you could come across as aggressive. Try to look your interviewer in the eye and if there is a panel interviewing you make sure you engage with them all.
Next time we’ll be looking at making you sound confident!