How to Prepare for an Interview

According to the U.S. Department of Labor we are in the worst job market in over 25 years. The unemployment figure rose to 10.2% in October of 2009, the highest since April of 1983. Looking for a job in this market can be a long drawn out frustrating and demoralizing endeavor. So in offering tips for interview success, it may seem trite to recommend that you stay enthusiastic and keep a positive attitude. But that’s exactly what you must do!

Here’s why; If you are down and carrying around a negative attitude, this negative energy will be felt by those you interact with. You may not intentionally be trying to exude this negative energy but it will come through. Just think of your own interactions with others and how you can feel someone’s positive or negative enthusiasm come through. Hiring managers want to add employees who will bring enthusiasm and a results oriented approach to the job. Those candidates who can come across with unstoppable energy will have a clear edge in the interview process.

Try these practices to increase your level of enthusiasm and energy.

• Focus on those activities that you can control, such as networking or interview follow up.
• If something doesn’t go your way, like not getting chosen for the next round of interviews, let it go. Keep moving forward, because in this tight market it is natural for your job search to be slower.
• Get involved with an outside activity. Volunteer, coach your kid’s sports teams, or help someone else in need.
• Hang out with others who generate enthusiasm and have a can do approach to life. Their energy will be imparted to you.
• Get some exercise as this will increase your energy and help burn out some frustrations.
• Ignore the talking heads on TV who highlight the doom and gloom.

Approach every opportunity with enthusiasm, not just the ones that interest you the most. This positive energy will be seen and felt by all you interact with. The positive aura that you transmit will give you an edge versus your competition. It might just be what gets you that job offer.

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