The Secret Ingredient for Your Job Search

I’m lucky. I get to speak with fascinating people every day. Some have awe-inspiring, creative gifts. Some have subject-matter knowledge that boggles the mind. And a few have earned academic credentials from the most prestigious universities on earth.

However, without self-confidence, few of these people will ever land the positions to which they aspire. While a candidate with a fraction of their talent, expertise and education will easily earn twice as much – if they have self-confidence.

The truth is, people without self-confidence are typically ineffective networkers, they sell themselves short and they tend to stay in their comfort-zone.

Self-confidence trumps the best dress suit, the best resume, the highest degree, and even the best inside connections.

As a recruiter, self-confidence is one of the most important things I look for in any candidate. It’s that special ingredient that is absolutely priceless - and always memorable.

However, if you have always had low self-confidence, there are still things you can do to improve on it.

The most important first step toward gaining self-confidence is to accept and love yourself. None of us are perfect, so give yourself a break and stop dwelling on your minor deficiencies, as we all possess our fair share. 

You must accept them and start concentrating on your many talents and past accomplishments. By doing so, you will free your mind of a heavy burden and instantly feel light and cheerful.

Also consider that positive energy is closely allied to self-confidence. Without it, your self-confidence may simply come off as arrogance.

If you still feel a lack of self-confidence, you can at least demonstrate it in the interview by doing these simple things:

? Make sure you’re dressed appropriately

? Show up well before you walk through the front door

? Stand tall and pull your shoulders back

? Shake hands firmly

? Walk a little faster. Like you have places to go and people to see.

? Breath slowly and deeply

? Speak UP and speak clearly

? Memorize your “30-second elevator speech” and be able to say it very naturally

? Try to avoid using “aaah”, “ummm” and “ya know” in your sentences

? Control your nervous gestures (e.g. touching your face, folding your arms)

? Make eye contact with the interviewer. Never look down or away from the person when talking to them.

? Smile (often) and have a relaxed sense of humor.

At times, a normally confident person will lose their self-confidence when they experience an extended period of unemployment. They start doubting themselves and begin to think they no longer measure up.

If I’m describing you, please remember thatyou are the same accomplished and capable person you were before you lost your job. You simply need to change your internal dialogue.

If that isn’t working, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. According to mental health experts, unemployment can easily lead to depression. Don’t hesitate to get help. With proper treatment, you can get right back on track.

OTHER TIPS:

Stay away from people and things that get you down

The news media is often guilty of fanning the flames of doom and gloom. It’s smart to stay on top of current events, but if it gets you down – turn it off. Instead of watching the evening news – watch Wheel of Fortune. You can even skip the front page of the newspaper and go directly to the comics!

The people you associate with also play an important role in your self-confidence and positive energy. Gravitate towards those with a positive outlook that will support you. This will do wonders for your self-confidence.

If you were laid-off, turn the page and move on.

Nothing is gained by replaying the event, asking yourself what you could have done differently or dwelling on the injustice. As they say, misery loves company – so avoid spending your day talking about “how bad it is out there” with your fellow unemployed associates. I know it is easier said than done, but look forward – not behind.

Work hard in your job search, but take some time each day to have a little fun.

Especially when you are out of work, participate in activities that you enjoy and energize you. Get up early and put in a solid day of reaching out to prospective employers – then cap it off by watching a funny matinee at the local theatre or taking a long walk with a supportive friend in a local park.

Take some time each day to reflect on your special abilities and accomplishments and start managing your mind.

You need to be aware of your own self-talk. Your self-image is what feeds your self-confidence and this needs constant monitoring and care. Don’t underestimate yourself and guard against allowing feelings of inferiority to creep into your head.

And when it comes to processing the negative talk – from outside your mind – force yourself to think positively. If you hear that the unemployment rate is 9% – tell yourself that there is a 91% employment rate and that you will soon be gainfully employed again.

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