Marie Raperto, The Hiring Hub

Showing confidence in an interview is a necessity but you most be careful that you do not come across as arrogant or over-confident. Hiring managers are trying to access how you would fit into their culture along with looking for the right skills and experience. You must find the right balance between confidence vs. arrogance.  Here are some tips to follow:

1.  Prove it.  Provide data and samples so an interviewer can made the determination that you did it on their own.

2. Allow the conversation to flow. Be prepared to speak about your experience and skills but also listen to what the company needs. Listen for clues about what they want and what their culture is like. Not every job will be the perfect job for you. Better to find out before you start.

3. Tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Dishonesty in any form is considered a very undesirable trait. An interviewer is looking for someone who is honest about their experience and skills. Be yourself in an interview.

4. Manners count. Interviews can be stressful and you can easily come off as a know-it-all. Things like being on time, prepared and having researched the company all show that you are interested.  But looking at your phone or watch, sipping your coffee and negative body language can make you look patronizing.

5. Ask questions. Asking questions shows that you have done some research, you have listened to the interviewer and that you are interested.  Remember, questions on vacation time and benefits should wait to your last interview.

6. Use referrals/recommendations. If someone referred you, let the interviewer know. If you have written recommendations, bring them with you. You might be able to use one to prove your accomplishments. Having someone speak to your experience/skills is a plus.

Confident not arrogance will get you the job!