Written by: Adelina Stefan, Senior Level Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Self-confidence is not a natural gift. It s something that has to be built up over time, through constant accomplishments and positive feedback.
Self-confidence means trusting yourself, believing you are enough and being ready to become the captain of your own boat. It means that you have a sense of control in your life and a positive view of yourself, and you feel empowered to embrace the challenges and do what really matters. When you are at ease with yourself and your work, you set realistic expectations and goals, communicate assertively, and can handle feedback. However, it’s not always easy to be self-confident, particularly if you are self-critical and allow others to put you down.
I have coached a significant number of executives and professionals who struggle in some way with self-confidence and state that they don’t know to sell strengths and achievements and articulate with confidence their abilities and values in a way that would appeal to a hiring manager.
5 common challenges faced during job interviews and how to overcome them to communicate with confidence:
1. Managing stress. Interviews are a critical part of the hiring process and hence, they can be stressful, time and energy-consuming. In order to cope with such a stressful situation, it’s important to understand what would make you feel more relaxed and build confidence habits such as: daily affirmations, meditation, practice controlled-breathing, regular exercise or daily walks in nature.
2. Lack of self-awareness. Not knowing your strengths, weaknesses, passions and desires can lead to you feeling lost or overwhelmed during the job application process. At the same time, sending your resume to any and every job that "looks good" even when your skillset and prior experience do not even closely match the job description can hinder you from landing the job. Not knowing how to sell your strengths and skills to a potential employer will greatly decrease your chances of landing a job. Reflect on skills and accomplishments and be prepared to answer common questions such as: “Why do you really want this role?” This is one of the most common interviews questions a hiring manager will ask, and yet it is often the question that confuses job candidates the most. It’s basically, just a different way of asking, “Why do you want to work here?” The answer needs to map your personality with the skillsets required by the role. You need to identify how this company differentiates itself from others in the field. At the same time, your answer also helps a hiring manager decide if you really want the job, or if it’s just another one on the list of hundreds you submitted your resume for.
3. Lack of preparation. As Benjamin Franklin said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Neglecting to prepare and build up your confidence before an interview can lead to unforeseen issues later, limiting your chances to get hired. Doing in-depth research on the company’s mission statement, vision, values, and target audience will give you more confidence to provide accurate and concrete answers based on your experience and the targeted job requirements. Working on your personal breading, completing a mock interview or practice with a professional or even with your friends, can also help. If you project a positive image of your authentic self, you will more likely start to receive positive feedback, which would enhance your self-confidence.
4. Limiting beliefs tend to destroy your confidence and self-esteem. They can damage your belief in your own ability to make the necessary changes in your life that will bring you more fulfillment and happiness, such as “I Don’t Deserve that much!”. “I’m not enough qualified for that job” or “I could never quit my job and start my own business”, then you won’t do any of these things. You will subconsciously sabotage any opportunities that would come to you. With enough practice and preparation, anything is possible.
5. Interview etiquette across cultures. Knowing how to dress for cross-cultural interviews can be tricky. Cultural differences can play a role in interview expectations. You can start by conducting an online search about the culture where the company is located. Some cultures assume sophisticated attire reflects a sophisticated skillset. On the other hand, some cultures expect you to sell yourself, while others may expect a more passive or inquisitive style from candidates. If you know someone with that cultural background, reach out and inquire about what you should know. Maintaining proper interview etiquette is a crucial step in making a great impression and communicating with confidence. Consider formal and modest attire even if it’s a virtual interview. Stand up straight, keep your head up and draw your shoulders back for optimal posture. This can communicate confidence and competence. Minimize the gesturing. Gestures may not mean the same thing across regions or cultures. To avoid any negative perceptions on the other side of the screen, keep your arms comfortably at your sides and your feet planted on the floor to make yourself look more open and engaged. End the interview on a positive note. Depending on your culture, you may send a tailored thank you note to the interviewers to express your gratitude and interest in becoming part of the team.
Combining the above techniques with preparation, it will help you truly shine and reveal your best self to the interviewer.
Adelina Stefan, Senior Level Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Adelina Stefan is a Professional Certified Coach & Intercultural Facilitator specialized in Career Development, with a deep expertise in international HR recruitment and selection and Training and Development. Having worked for 10+ years across cultures, Adelina seeks to catalyze individuals’ potential, helping them create and implement their unique career blueprint and, at the same time, achieve a healthy work-life balance. She specializes in working with expats and mid- to senior-level executives dealing with challenging work environments that can affect both their performance and well-being. She supports organizations in building a corporate coaching culture by highlighting individuals’ maximum potential and engagement so that they become dedicated and highly successful employees. Her practice includes Career, Life, Executive, and Agile Coaching for individuals, as well as developing and implementing corporate Human Resources practices for improving intercultural relations.
