Confidence is the job seekers best friend. When going into an interview, particularly if it’s for a job you really want, the last thing you want to project is being unsure of yourself. The standard confidence builders are probably on your list of things to do to calm your nerves and present yourself as the confident candidate. But here are some extra tips you might not have heard of before.
Tried and True Confidence Builders
You know how important it is to come prepared. Knowing the job description and requirements in addition to how your unique skills and work history complement their demands is critical. You want to prepare both mentally and verbally to put your best foot forward. Mock interviews and practice make for a confident candidate, so prepare liberally. You know you’re a great fit for the job, just be prepared to tell an interviewer why. In the same line of old-school interview prep tips include careful breathing, power poses, and good body language. These all work hard to help you project self-assuredness and confidence.
Dress in Black
Black is a color of strength and tends to make those who wear it feel stronger and more confident. Research has shown that black makes people appear more attractive, intelligent, and confident. So, don’t shy away from that all black suit that you think might be too dour for an interview. Black is a great color to show up as a strong and confident professional.
Listen to Music
Get into the zone with your music choices before an interview. Music is incredibly powerful and can have a major influence on a person’s mood. Turn to music with a heavy bassline to boost your confidence. In a study conducted by Northwestern University, 78 students were asked to listen to a two-minute instrumental piece twice. The first time they listened, the piece had a quiet bass line, and the second time, researchers turned up the bass. After listening to the piece with heavy bass, participants said they felt more powerful, dominant, and determined.
Get Social
It’s no big surprise that the people we spend time with have a real impact on how we feel about ourselves. Surround yourself with a large network of supportive friends, especially when you are in the middle of a job search. Their positivity and support can help give you a boost in self-esteem that will bring out the confidence that will get you noticed. This can be equally true for in-person engagement and digital social engagement. Social media is a great way to connect with a wider social network – so long as you are equally careful of who is and who is not allowed to join your network.
Talk to Yourself
Positive self-talk is a socially awkward, but surprisingly quick way to boost your confidence levels. Talk to yourself positively in the second person (using “you” instead of “I”). Focus on all the great things you have accomplished. Studies have shown that participants who spoke to themselves positively in the second person reported higher levels of motivation and confidence. You are quite literally giving yourself a pep talk by doing so.
Find Your Next Contract Assignment with ESGI
Are you looking for help in finding your next contract assignment in the power generation industry? Contact ESGI today to get started on working with our team of recruiters!
