By Aoibhinn Mc Bride
While a firm handshake, good eye contact and the ability to highlight your skills, experience and personal attributes are non-negotiable in an interview setting, not many job seekers add highlighting how confident they are into the mix.
But according to recent research, self-promotion is key if you want to bag your next role as
Additionally, 65% of hiring managers automatically discount candidates who fail to make eye contact, while 20% wouldn't offer a job to someone who kept their arms crossed during an interview.
Striking the balance
However, there is also such a thing as too much confidence and selling yourself should never come across as borderline arrogance.
So, with that in mind, how can job seekers ensure they are striking the right balance during the interview process? Talking about yourself is awkward for most people so embrace the humble brag and prepare some examples of times you've excelled and the skills you've gleaned professionally so you don't trip over your words or undersell yourself.
This information can also form the basis of your response to "tell me about yourself" or "how would those who have worked with you describe your work style".
Next, remove the word "we" from your vocabulary. Teamwork is an essential skill but a job interview is an opportunity for you to show off the contributions you've made, not anyone else.
Focus on your part in tasks or projects and communicate this effectively so that those conducting the interview can interpret you as the person who drives results. You can highlight your ability to be a team player and collaborate effectively in other ways.
Finally, don't be disheartened if you are called for multiple interviews before a company offers you the job. This isn't a reflection on your ability or expertise (or even your interview prowess) so don't let a fourth or fifth interview round rattle your confidence.
Instead, use each interview round as the blueprint or building blocks for your next interview and work on any areas you think you could have done better on. This level of attention to detail and ability to fine-tune your interview skills will also give you a confidence boost and help you feel more confident when you're sitting in the hot seat.
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