CONFIDENCE is key when it comes to selling yourself in a job application form or at the interview itself. If you’re a naturally shy person it can be a daunting task but if you don’t believe in yourself then no one else will.
HINTS AND TIPS:
1. REALISE YOUR OWN STRENGTHS
The first step to selling yourself is to recognise that you have worthwhile skills and strengths. Make a list of personal qualities you possess, think of past examples where you have achieved a goal and detail how you did it. Look at the different areas of your life – hobbies, job, social life – and think about ways in which they have contributed to your personal development.
Make a list of extra qualifications or courses you might have attended such as first aid or IT courses.
If you’re struggling it can be a good idea to ask friends, family, colleagues and tutors what they think your strengths and skills are.
2. CHANGE YOUR MINDSET
If you’re worried about coming across as arrogant, you have to change your thinking. What you are doing in your interview isn’t boasting; you are simply providing recruiters with evidence that you are the right person for the job.
Unless you speak up for yourself and your abilities the interviewer will have no way of knowing and will hire someone else.
3. GIVE EXAMPLES
Show rather than tell. When answering a question about a time when you had success or achieved something – give an example. Be specific and let the facts speak for themselves – make sure you stick to the truth.
4. MAKE SURE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA SHOWS YOU IN THE BEST LIGHT
Employers frequently check out potential candidates online so make sure your digital footprint doesn’t let you down. Keep personal pages such as Facebook private and ensure your LinkedIn is up to date and accurate.
5.BELIEVE IN YOURSELF
You wouldn’t have applied for the job if you didn’t think you could do it so have confidence in your own abilities. Be assertive rather than arrogant -likeability is vital so act friendly, with lots of smiles and a good handshake.