With all that is going on in the world, it can be hard to stay positive. But no matter how you are feeling on the day of your job interview, it is important to maintain a positive attitude. Employers hire people who appear upbeat and who are likely to get along with their bosses, coworkers, and clients. Even if you are well qualified for a position, negativity can hurt your chances of getting the job.
Here are tips for conveying a positive attitude during an interview:
1. Dress for Success
First impression is everything. Select business attire for an interview, even if the dress code is casual and even if the interview is via video. Avoid distracters such as large amounts of makeup, jewelry, perfume or aftershave so that the interviewer can focus on what you are saying. When you look good, you feel good.
2. Boost Confidence
According to Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist at Harvard Business School, spending two minutes in a power pose, standing with your chest lifted, head held high, arms propped on hips, will boost your confidence and performance. Keep negativity from creeping in with a power pose before your next interview.
3. Focus on Posture
Your posture is an extension of the Power Pose. Slouching, avoiding eye contact, and turning your body away from the interviewer sends the message that you lack confidence. Instead, stand and sit up straight with your shoulders back, and look the employer in the eye. This posture will make you appear confident and positive. If your interview is remote, practice sitting up straight in your chair and check your appearance ahead of time.
4. Smile
Smiling, even when you’re not feeling happy, will brighten your mood. Walking into a job interview with a smile on can put you in the positivity zone. Just don’t overdo it. Excessive smiling will appear fake. A smile during greetings is natural and encouraged, but then you should present a positive and professional business demeanor for the interview.
5. Be an Active Listener
Active listening involves looking the interviewer in the eye when they speak, asking questions, nodding, and rephrasing what is said. This keeps you engaged in the conversation and tuned into learning about the job and the organization. It also keeps any negativity at bay.
6. Emphasize the Positive
Avoid saying anything negative about your current company, manager, or peers. Treat everyone you encounter at the company, from the receptionist to the CEO, with friendliness and respect. It will not go unnoticed. Always be gracious and appreciative of the interviewer’s time.
Your goal is to come across as positive and confident. Show that you can get along well with everyone, including bosses, coworkers, and clients. Let your personality shine along with your qualifications
Written by:
Kathy Lin, Marketing Communications Manager
Kathy writes content for Tal Healthcare, a healthcare career website. She has a background in recruiting, sales, and teaching. She holds a BA in Biology from the University of Vermont. When she isn’t writing you can find her outside running, skiing or biking.