Be Confident

During my short tenure here at CSB, one of the problems that has undoubtedly hindered many students in the job search is a lack of self confidence.  Employers can sense it when a candidate lacks self confidence, and they are unlikely to offer a position to someone who seems to need to have his or her hand held.  They want employees who will be independent, sure of themselves, and willing to take calculated risks.  If you find yourself feeling as if you lack confidence, check out this article, entitled "Ten Secrets for Boosting Your Self Confidence During the Job Search," for some tips to help you sell yourself with conviction.  In particular, pay attention to Secrets # 2, 5, 6, 8, and 9, as all of these deal with elements of improving your confidence.

On a related note, I've often shared this with job seekers who lack confidence:  What have you got to lose?  Make it a mantra you repeat to yourself going into the interview:  What have I got to lose?  What have I got to lose?  And it's true as well...you're coming in without a job; the worst that can happen is that you don't get the job.  You have nothing to lose.  Instead, look at the interview situation as an opportunity to do well, a chance to share what you can do and to sell yourself as the best candidate.

So be confident in yourself and your skills!  Getting the job could depend on it!  What have you got to lose? Or, more importantly, what have you got to gain!