A Job Search Can Be Stressful: 8 Tricks to Stay Confident During Interviews

Looking for a job is not just about having the right resume and cover letter, but it’s also about how you present yourself during the interview. A job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience: you are about to meet someone who will decide if you are the right fit for the job. It’s easy to get wrapped up in all the stress and worry of a job hunt, but it’s important to stay positive and motivated. The more confident you feel, the more it will show. Here are 8 tricks to stay confident during interviews.

1. Use Power Postures

Your body can affect your mind, and you can use this to your advantage. Closed off postures like slouching or crossing your arms make you feel small, so spend several minutes practicing “power poses,” or opening yourself up, spreading your arms, walking tall, and looking the part. This will build a sense of assurance just by your actions.

2. Practice Speaking Out Loud and Smiling

Practice speaking your answers out loud so you can hear your voice and correct any nervous intonations before you go to your interview. Smile often before your interview to get in the habit of doing so, and you’ll feel more comfortable offering a genuine smile while you’re being interviewed.

3. Listen to Upbeat Music

Listening to upbeat music can put you in the mood to win. Think about a time in your life when you succeeded to get yourself motivated. Pump yourself up and put yourself in the mood to win, whether it’s listening to upbeat music or watching motivational YouTube videos or just reading inspirational quotes.

4. Leave Your Hang-ups at the Door

Bring enthusiasm with you to every interview you go on, because nothing is set in stone. Treat each interview like it’s your only priority, and you’ll be able to exude assurance and change everything from your posture to your attitude for the better.

5. Dress For the Feeling You Want

The way you dress can affect your confidence, and if your last interview outfit has gone out of style, you’ll feel uncomfortable wearing it. Pick out a professional and stylish outfit you feel confident in, and you’ll be more likely to exude this assurance.

6. Do One Extroverted Act Before Your Interview

Interviewers are not only looking for the person who has the perfect answer for every question, but they are also searching for someone who can fit the team dynamic. Start small talk with the barista, chat with the receptionist, or smile at a stranger. Put yourself in a friendly mood by being an extrovert for a few minutes before your interview.

7. Get Your Nervous Tics Out of the Way Before You Enter the Building

We all have nervous tics, but make sure you’re not doing them in front of a future employer. Get it all out of the way when you’re still at home or in your car. Go ahead and crack your knuckles, tap your foot if it calms your nerves, then make a mental note to hold off for the few hours you’re in the building.

8. Understand and Have the Best Possible Answer to the Question “Why Do You Want This Job?”

This question could potentially be the most important question of the interview. Knowing the answer to this question means knowing all about the company, and it requires a deep understanding of your own career values and desires. Spend a lot of time researching and rehearsing what you’re going to say in this moment.

Always remember that the interview isn’t just a session to figure out what skills and experience you possess, it’s a chance for you to let your personality show and to prove that you’d be a good fit for the team. Have confidence in yourself, believe that you’re capable of landing this job. After all, they called you, so practice potential questions, but also work on building confidence in yourself and having a positive outlook.