Job interviews can be nerve racking. We are told: “Try to think of the interviewers as ordinary people who are just like us.” The difference is they have jobs, and we want a job. Then we are told, “Don’t come across as desperate.” How does a person not come across as desperate? The truth is many people are desperate when trying to get a job or find a better job.

Most people go to an interview at some time in their lives. Why? It is because employers want a chance to get to know their applicants. Of course they want to know if the applicant has the necessary job skills for the position, but more importantly they want to be assured the person they are hiring will be a good fit with their organization. For example, employers will be asking themselves:

“Is the applicant easy to talk to?”  “Did the applicant arrive on time for the interview?”  “Did the applicant come across as cocky?”  “Is the applicant confident?” “Can the applicant look me in the eye?” “Did the applicant actually listen to what was being asked and then answer the question?” “Did the applicant come prepared?” “Is the applicant dressed properly?”

In addition to determining if the job seeker has the much needed job skills, many employers are looking for people who are: polite, well mannered, hardworking, and easy to be around. They want people who will represent their organization in a positive way.

I have been on many interview panels and have listened to hundreds of applicants. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of being authentic. In other words be yourself!

Besides being yourself, be sure to stress your strengths and positive attributes. Many people fail to do this because they feel they are bragging. This is not bragging. You are providing important information the employer needs to make an informed decision on who to hire. For example, if you are a hard worker who arrives at work 15 minutes early, then say so. If you are attending night school to acquire extra skills and knowledge, then be sure to let the interviewer know this. If you have particular skills that you feel are applicable to the job you are applying for, do not fail to say so.

Remember, your job is to help the employer see who you are as a candidate and future employee in the organization. Think about your strengths before the interview, prepare and practice what you want to say, and then share the information with the employer. The employer wants to know you will be an asset. Interviews are the perfect platform to tell your story.

As the employers are interviewing you, it is important for you to interview them. Creating a good match is important on both sides of the table. What is the point of being fake then taking a position that does not suit you in an organization where you don’t really want to work? That’s just it. There is no point. Start out being your authentic self from day one, and you never have to worry about being fake.

Here are some interview tips:

• Dress appropriately for your interview which means one level up from the job you are applying for.

• Use good manners and always be polite.

• Maintain good eye contact and have a good handshake.

• Show confidence not arrogance.

• Cover up tattoos.

• Turn your cell phone off. This does not mean put it on vibrate.

• Be positive.

• Listen to and answer the questions being asked.

• Research the organization and the position you are applying for.

• Rehearse what you want to say.

• ALWAYS be yourself.

• Believe there is a job out there for you.

• Don’t quit!

I am the owner of Woodworker Life Coaching located in Sacramento, CA. I have several years experience coaching others with their job searching and have personally sat on many interview panels. My area of expertise is helping people give better interviews.

http://www.woodworkerLifeCoaching.com