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Practical Interview Tips To Sound Confident - A How to Guide

Updated on June 10, 2012
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I'm a dad, husband, and Christian first. Second, I'm an educator and organizational development professional.

Job Interviews can be challenging.
Job Interviews can be challenging. | Source

When you feel nervous during an interview it shows that you are human. In spite having butterflies in your stomach, you need to project confidence – just don’t overcompensate. Appearing anxious and overly confident are two mindsets that you need to remove in your system. Here are some tips and tricks to sound confident without going over the top.

Use complete sentences

One of the most irritating interviews I have encountered was with an applicant who failed to complete a single sentence. Complete sentences give the impression that you know what you are saying. Moreover, it allows you to express yourself clearly and succinctly. With the proper use to of language, you can effectively communicate.

Practical tidbits:

  • Keep your answers concise – talking too much is not a good idea
  • Answer only what is asked
  • Watch your grammar and sentence structure

Communication - the heart of an interview

Communicating properly is the foundation of a successful interview.

Do you feel nervous during a job interview?

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Give details

Interviews offer a chance for the company to know you better. As such, provide details about your experiences, skills and other pertinent information. It is essential that you provide adequate information so that the interviewer can collect as much detail about you. In addition, provide only information that is asked of you. There are people who keep on talking about things that are not relevant

Practical tidbits:

  • Focus on what is asked
  • Give relevant and updated information
  • Organize how you present the details

Share your ideas and opinions

One important part in an interview is sharing your ideas and opinions. More importantly, explain your position on certain issues and topics. Just keep in mind that not everyone may agree with you. However, it is a huge plus when you share your ideas and opinions. This allows the interviewer to know you better.

Practical tidbit:

  • Be honest with your opinions
  • Show passion and conviction with your ideas and opinions
  • Explain your position and opinions
  • Do not rant

Organize your thoughts

Another way of showing confidence is organizing your thoughts when you answer. Many fail to impress because their mind is in disarray. I find it a huge waste of my time when I interview people who are inconsistent with their answers. Whether it is nervousness or down right lie, it is never impressive to have a chaotic mind during an interview.

Practical tidbits:

  • Practice at home
  • Prepare for the interview

Your facial expressions can say one thing while your words can say another.
Your facial expressions can say one thing while your words can say another. | Source

Be mindful of your body language

Interviews are more than just answers and questions. How you conduct yourself is a huge part in your success (or failure). What your body tells the interviewer can affect the outcome of your interview so be mindful of your body language.

Practical tidbits:

  • Maintain eye contact always
  • Assume a relax but alert bearing
  • Avoid defensive postures like folding your arms
  • Express yourself using gestures and facial expressions

Ask relevant questions

Many interviews include the opportunity to ask questions (some don’t). Some pass up the chance to inquire about the company. Use this chance to shine in your interview. Asking intelligent questions is a sure sign of confidence. So before you go to your appointment, jot down some questions that you may what to ask.

Practical tidbits:

  • Research about the company to give you some idea what to ask
  • Ask permission to ask questions
  • Be brief and clear

Interviews can be unnerving. Follow these simple tips and you can overcome your nervousness and project confidence - even if you don't have it just yet.

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