TIPS FOR FEELING CONFIDENT DURING INTERVIEWS

Many of us are very uncomfortable at interviews and dread the thought of going through one. Preparing mentally for the interview is a key element in your being comfortable and being at your best. Following are a few tips to consider and try.

* DRESS APPROPRIATELY -If the job you are applying for is a professional job where coats and ties are expected you should wear a coat and tie. If you are unsure you may want to visit the workplace beforehand and see how they are dressed. BE

COMFORTABLE GOING IN THAT YOU ARE DRESSED APPROPRIATELY.

* HAVE A POSITIVE ATTITUDE - Believe in yourself and your skills. You would not be interviewing if you did not have the tools. Remember, your resume has sold them that you have the tools. The interview is to see if you are a match for the job.

* USE GOOD NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION - Review some of the tips we suggest about handshakes, eye contact, posture, being comfortable with silences and walking and talking confidently. The first 5-10 seconds of an interview are important and body language is a part of it. However, be yourself.

* BE OBSERVANT - Look for clues about the interviewer as you go in. Check for pictures, awards, etc. that give you ideas about his/her interests that can serve as openers. (people have been hired because they can bowl, play softball etc. Are there company activity trophies on display?)

* ANSWER QUESTIONS - Honestly and by directing answers first to the person who asked it and then others if it is a group interview. Look directly at the interviewer if it is one on one. Do not be afraid of silences as he/she may be thinking about your answer. It is okay to look away while thinking about a question and then come back and look at the interviewer with your answer.

* HAVE A LIST OF QUESTIONS YOU WANT ANSWERS TO - This shows you are prepared and have a real interest in the job.

* TAKE AN INVISIBLE RESUME - have it with you and use it to let them learn more about you, your soft skills and what you bring to the company. Review the Invisible Resume page in this Guidebook.

* Be ATTENTIVE – Every question is important.

* BE POSITIVE – About your skills and what you can bring to the company.

* SET THEM UP - For further contact by asking if you can call back if you have further questions (it brings your name up again) and to see if they have made a decision on the job OR to see if they have further questions for you. Be sure to contact them again with a question by phone or e-mail to keep your name in front of them.