My friends don’t believe that I’m shy. I’m LOUD, my voice carries like a tank, and I do like to talk. The problem is that’s usually only once I know people. At first, I’m incredibly timid. I’m not the only one either. Countless shy job seekers fear interviews and video interviews because of the pressure it puts on them, but we’re here to help. We’re offering five tips to the shy and introverted job seekers, with help from U.S. News and World Report.
5. Take it one day at a time.
Unless your potential employers cannot schedule interviews on a different day, make sure you give yourself a little time to decompress between interviews. The shy job seeker may be overwhelmed by multiple interviews, even video interviews, in one day. Scheduling one job will help alleviate some of that anxiety.
4. Be prepared.
Nothing is worse for the shy or introverted than not knowing the answer and being forced to scramble. For an already timid person, the unexpected can be overwheling. Therefore it’s crucial you do your homework before having an in-person or video interview.
3. Dress to impress.
Being shy can give you enough anxiety in interviews as it is without having to worry about your attire. Make sure all your clothes are well tailored and fitting, and that you have dry-cleaned any suits or dress shirts ahead of time so you look crisp and prepared. Feeling confident in your clothes can help you feel more confident and extroverted in your interview.
2. Embrace the video interview.
Video interviews allow introverted and shy job seekers the chance to conduct their portion of the interview in their own comfort zone. A video interview also requires you to focus your attention on the interview itself, without leaving as much room for job seekers to look around the room, et… Video interviews are a great way to gain confidence in your interviewing skills without the anxiousness that accompanies having to meet everyone in the office, getting lost, being late, etc…
1. Just relax.
It seems like hokey advice, but often just loosening up and relaxing a bit can help shy and introverted job seekers interview better.
Being shy doesn’t have to be a huge impediment in interviews and video interviews. Instead, harness your shy personality into politeness, not silence. Video interviews can be an excellent step for shy and introverted job seekers looking to gain confidence in their interview skills. Check out Spark Hire’s information on video interviews to find out more.
Do you have any good advice for passive job seekers? Comment below!
IMAGE: Courtesy of Flickr by bpsusf
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