Getting through your job interview

You may have gone through every step of preparing to land a good job with confidence by gaining experience, honing your education, and writing a good, solid resume. Once those efforts start to pay off and you get a call for an interview with a potential employer, you may find yourself struck with a bad case of nervousness. This problem is common and, fortunately, it's one that's all in your head - there's nothing about a job interview you should be nervous about if you're confident and secure.

Practicing interviews goes a long way to giving yourself self-confidence. With the help of friends or family, you can prepare yourself to answer questions without hesitation and try a few different answers to choose the one that sounds best. Rehearsal is important for making sure you look confident to potential employers. You can also use a mirror to see how your face and eyes display either nerves or confidence. Work on eliminating small details that will give an impression of self-doubt. Once you enter the interview and finally meet your potential employer, use a firm handshake and a smile, keep yourself from looking down at the floor, and definitely try not to shift too much from nerves.

It is important that you be open and totally truthful when answering questions for a job interview. You will no longer be in contention for the job if you are caught in a lie. Before the interview, give some thought to how you will answer difficult questions about your work, education, or personal history. If you've made mistakes at your previous employment, soften the blow by the way you phrase your answers, but don't leave the wrong impression by glossing over the questions.

During an interview, it helps to know what is questions are legal and appropriate to ask. In some cases you are not legally required to answer certain questions and your refusal cannot be held against you. Be aware of this fact: there are some topics that are illegal for interviewers to approach. It does help to know your rights, but you shouldn't be belligerent about it. Even if you are admitting to something you must explain, such as a big work history gap or a lack of career goals, give your answers to your potential employer with confidence.

Many articles and books have been written on how to dress for an interview. It is almost all common sense. The best way to look during an interview is clean and neat in a business suit or professional looking blouse and pants. If you look professional, dress professionally, and are well spoken, you are well on your way to getting the job you desire.

Finally, once the interview is almost over, help your case by asking your would-be employer questions about the job you're applying for or the organization itself. Asking questions shows that you have a serious interest in where you work.