Getting an opportunity to work with your dream company can be overwhelming. Especially if you are a first-time job seeker, isn’t it? You are nervous but you must make the right first impression. Therefore, you must look confident. What should you do in such a situation?

Here are some tips that will make you more confident during your first job interview:

Trust your knowledge:

Confidence comes from knowledge. Don’t say things you aren’t entirely sure about just to impress the interviewer. At the same time, don’t be doubtful of your own knowledge and skills which you have acquired over years of hard work.

To put yourself at ease and to share your knowledge in a humble but confident manner, try to build a rapport with the person conducting your interview. To connect with your interviewer, start with simple conversations for a brief while without digressing from the key agenda. You can even elaborate on witty observations about the industry.

Participate in the extra-curricular activities:

One of the best ways to build confidence is by participating in extra-curricular programs. It helps in polishing your soft skills and gives you early exposure to the outside world. This, in turn, builds confidence. It also looks great on your CV and can become one of the key talking points during your first interview.

Honesty is rewarding:

Don’t try to act like you know it all. It could backfire. It’s better to be humble and accept that there may be a gap in your communication or your understanding of a subject without being nervous about it. Being open about your flaws speaks a lot about the type of person you are. Not everyone can be confident about their flaws. Hence, interviewers appreciate those who are realistic and willing to learn.

Don’t memorize your communication:

Be dynamic. Understand the questions being posed by your interviewer and respond thoughtfully. Practicing for your interview is one thing; don’t confuse it with memorizing your communication.

The main difference between an exam and an interview is that when it comes to interviews, there is no set syllabus. Right from your text books to today’s news, the interviewer can ask you questions from anywhere.  Stay in the loop of what’s happening around you.

Listen carefully:

Communication is a two-way street, where listening is just as critical as speaking. Don’t just go on talking about everything that you know. When you listen carefully, you know which questions you need to avoid and which ones you should ask. It automatically makes you look smarter and more confident.

Get out of your comfort zone:

If you are a shy person, start speaking to one stranger every day. It is a great way to build confidence. Also, when you initiate a conversation with a stranger, you may learn something new that could benefit you during your first job interview.

When you adopt these tips in a disciplined manner, you will be able to attend your first job interview a lot more confidently. And, if you have the right skills set, then you’re sure to land your dream job. Remember, an interview isn’t just about the employer getting an insight into your skills and personality, but also about you being confident in asking the right questions about the company and the role to kick start your career.