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Projecting self confidence in a job interview

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Projecting self confidence in a job interview

BY Skillset 17 Jun, 2024

Self-confidence is an important attribute in the workplace and when looking for work. Confident employees are often enthusiastic, competent, strong communicators, and positive role models for their team. It’s also something many employers look for in job candidates.

So how do you project self-confidence in a job interview? Here are Skillset’s top tips:

Be Prepared

Preparation is the best way to show confidence in an interview. Start by researching the organisation. Knowing how the company works, its goals and values, and recent activities will help you answer questions and show genuine interest in the role.

  • Visit the company’s website, especially the “About Us” section.
  • Learn about the management team and read any blog articles or news updates.
  • Check their social media and look for credible sources that mention the organisation.

Also, research the job itself. Ask for a copy of the position description and review the key tasks and responsibilities before the interview.

Finally, prepare your responses to common interview questions and practise them with family or friends, or even in front of a mirror or by recording yourself. This will help reduce nerves and improve your delivery. Bring a few questions to ask the employer too. It shows you’re interested and enthusiastic about the role.

Consider Your Appearance

Think about what you’ll wear to the interview. Choose clothing that suits the industry. For office roles, business attire is best. For trade roles, neat workwear such as a polo shirt and work pants is appropriate.

Always make sure you’re well-groomed and avoid caps, sneakers, thongs, low-cut tops, or revealing clothing. When you look good, you feel good, and feeling good helps you project confidence. First impressions count.

Think About Your Body Language

Confidence isn’t just about what you say, it’s also about what you don’t say. Positive body language can make a big difference.

  • Smile when greeting the interviewer
  • Maintain eye contact
  • Sit up straight
  • Nod to show you’re listening
  • Keep your hands in a neutral position (avoid fidgeting or crossing your arms)

Even if you feel nervous, positive body language communicates self-belief. Remember, almost everyone gets nervous in interviews—it’s normal. Many employers see a little nervousness as a sign you care about the job. So keep in mind the saying: “Fake it till you make it.” Maintain confident body language and give yourself the best chance of success.

Confidence comes from preparation, presentation, and attitude. With these tips, you’ll walk into your next interview ready to make a strong impression.

 

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We are honoured to be on the ancestral lands of those whose cultures are among the oldest living cultures in human history. We pay respect to the Elders, past, present and to the younger generation of the community who will be the future leaders in years to come.