One of most nerve-racking parts of a job search is the interview. You’ve made it past the initial screening, and now is the time to prove you are truly the best candidate for the position. Although the idea of selling yourself and impressing new people can seem stressful, interviewing is a skill that can be learned. By learning the right tips and mastering the proper techniques, you will be able to effectively show your value to potential employers, present yourself in the best light, and ultimately land the job you want.

• Tell your story. In general, people tend to conclude that their lives are average, however, that isn’t true. The way your life has evolved, the lessons you’ve learned, your achievements, shortcomings, and aspirations are all very unique to you and much more interesting than you realize. Being able to share a compelling story is one of the most powerful interviewing techniques you can harness. Your story is how you will help the interviewer understand who you are and where you are going. This is how you will make yourself memorable, show your confidence, and bring personality to your resume.
• Manage your stress. Interviewing for a job can be stressful for anyone. Stress can actually prove beneficial in small doses by helping you perform under pressure, but an overwhelming amount of stress can impair the way you communicate and hinder your capacity to think clearly and creatively. If stress hits before or during an interview, diffuse it by taking a moment to quickly reduce stress in the moment. This can help you maintain a relaxed and energized state of awareness while remaining focused and engaged during challenging questions.
• Ask your own questions. Answering questions effectively is of course important during an interview, but you’ll also want to assert yourself. Being prepared and asking great questions about the position and the employer is an excellent way to show your interest during the interview. Try to be thoughtful and self-reflective in both your answers and your questions during an interview. Remember, an interview is just as much an opportunity for you to learn about the position and the company as it is for them to learn about you.

Being offered an interview is a huge step in the job search process. Although it may seem stressful, taking a deep breath, knowing yourself, and communicating effectively can all help you improve your chances of receiving a job offer. If you are looking for additional job seeker resources, contact the staffing experts at Springborn Staffing today!